Buying replacement windows can be a tricky process if you aren’t sure what to look for. After all, there are many different window types and companies to help with installation, that it can an overwhelming undertaking for even the most savvy homeowner. Here are some tips to help get you started:
1. Consider the reputation of the window replacement company: Many homeowners would consider this to be at the bottom of the totem pole, however, this is one of the most important things to consider when buying replacement windows. The home improvement industry has many unlicensed contractors doing shoddy work for homeowners. Always check out a company or individual contracting to do a window replacement in your home. Ask for references and follow up with calling those listed. You could also do a query with the Better Business Bureau to be sure there are no complaints listed against the company you are considering hiring to do your window replacement project. A reputable company should have insurance in place and have qualified employees with some experience in installing replacement windows.
2. Choose the right glass for your replacement window: Homeowners often tend to associate expensive with quality and in some instances this is the case, but in others, this theory couldn’t be farther from the truth. Getting the right glass for your window is as important as getting the proper doors or walls for your home. The glass you get for your window will help to protect your home from the outside elements, in addition to adding a sense of beauty and sophistication to your space. Therefore, homeowners should educate themselves on the types of glass available and work with the window company to choose the right fit.
* Insulated Glass: This is made of two pieces of glass that are melded together in an effort to keep out moisture and other irritants, like dust. Insulated glass comes with spaces that separate the two pieces from one another. One of the most preferred is the “super spacer,” which is non-conductive and works best for energy efficiency. It also provides a double seal for the glass itself. Another effective, but decidedly less common option is argon gas, which does improve the energy efficiency of glass by at least 10%. However, insulated glass with argon gas should be sure to have a sold Mylar backing that will ensure the gas doesn’t seep out. When shopping for insulated glass, it’s important to understand terms like “U-Value” and “Solar Heat Gain Coefficient.” The U-Value of glass is the measure of its efficiency, meaning that the lower the U-Value, the more efficiently the glass performs. The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient is the measure of heat that gets into your home via sunlight. The lower the number of Solar Heat Gain Coefficient is of your glass, the less heat you will get into your home. UV Transmittance is another crucial term to understand as this is the sunlight that harms your décor, fading carpeting and drapes. The lower the percentage of UV rays you have streaming into your home, the more your décor and furnishings will be preserved.
* Obscure glass: This is known as frosted glass and usually is either frosted or patterned to the point where you cannot see through it. Most obscure glass windows have a rough area on the outside page and the inside is made of Low E glass. Some manufacturers often customers fun design options, such as utilizing a rain pattern or fern leaf for an interesting decorative touch.
* Tempered glass: This is glass that is heated up and then cooled, with a small window of turnaround time. This process makes the glass that much stronger and creates a certain amount of surface tension that keeps the glass from shattering into large pieces when broken. This is also known as safety glass, as the pieces are smaller when it’s broken and therefore less dangerous. Whenever safety glass is used, it must be at least 18 inches from the floor.
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