Tips

Window Materials - This is a big purchase, so giving yourself some flexibility post-purchase is a smart move. Consider the interior. Do you make changes often? Do you want to be able to control the look of your windows on the inside – changing color whenever your décor changes? If so, you'll want to investigate paintable windows. Or are you more the set-it-and-forget-it type?

What kind of pane should you get? Single-pane is highly inefficient and practically obsolete. Most likely single-pane windows are what you're trying to replace. Double-pane windows are the most common and efficient choice, but triple-pane windows (even more efficient) are also available.

Other features that can improve energy efficiency are gas fills and Low-E coatings that can reduce heat transmission, and guard against the damaging effects of sunlight (fading). Some manufacturers also offer a self-cleaning coating. A gas fill can be standard with some manufacturers and an upgrade with others.

The type of Low-E coating and your U-factor rating (this measures the rate of heat transfer) will depend to a great degree on what type of climate you live in, and what direction your windows face. In the summer, you might not want heat to enter through the windows, but blocking that entirely would adversely affect you during the winter, when a little (free!) winter heat can help lower your heating bills.

After the energy-saving features come the easy-maintenance features. Some windows – awning, hopper, and some double-hung windows – tilt inward for easy cleaning. Some are easier to tilt in than others, so take them for a test drive in a manufacturer's showroom or at your home improvement retailer. Other features that could impact your decision are the opening mechanisms on casement, awning, and hopper windows (how durable is the crank assembly?), dual locks, screen locks, vent locks, and so on.

Single-hung windows mean that only one half of the window, either the top or bottom sash (usually the bottom), can open. Double-hung windows mean that both the top and the bottom can open, although only one half at a time. Both sashes on double-hung windows usually tilt inward. Double-hung windows are much easier to clean!

3rd Avenue Window Supply is your #1 source for window replacement and repair needs! They have the background and experience to make your home more extravagant than ever! Choose 3rd Avenue Window Supply for all your window replacement and repair needs!