Whether you’re building a new house or renovating the one you already live in, choosing the right windows is always incredibly important. They not only let the sunlight get into your home but have a huge impact on the appearance of the entire building as well. That’s why you should consider your options and learn more about their advantages and disadvantages before making the final choice.
What types of windows are there?
At the very beginning, it’s important to find the type of windows best suited to the style of your home and your needs. There’s a number of options to choose from, and among them, you can find:
- Casement windows: In casement windows, the sash is attached to the frame by side hinges and they typically open outwards.
- Sliding windows: Like casement windows, sliding windows offer a great view and effective ventilation, but they open sideways.
- Awning windows: Awning windows are hinged to the frame at the top and open outwards.
- Double-hung windows: This type of window consists of two movable sashes and can be opened vertically. This category is commonly used not only in modern houses but also in conservation areas where a classic Box Sash Window will fit in perfectly.
- Roof windows: Roof windows belong to a completely separate category of windows, but they are nonetheless worth mentioning. Another thing to keep in mind: there are big differences between roof windows for pitched roofs and those for flat roofs, so it’s important to consider your roof type while shopping for rooflights.
But simply choosing the right type of windows is not enough – even within one category, there are different models available that might differ greatly in quality. That’s why, in order to make an informed decision, you should know what to look for in your new windows.
Things to consider when choosing new windows
- Size
Deciding on the size of your windows early on is very important – bigger windows will let more light into your home, but they can also sometimes make creating a functional furniture layout more difficult. And then it’s also important to think about the installation of your replacement windows – if you’re buying windows that are bigger in size than the ones you currently have, installing them will involve a lot more work than simply replacing windows in the same size.
- Material
Many people tend to focus mainly on the size and quality of the glass pane, but it’s important to look at the window frame as well – especially the material it’s made of. You can choose between wood, vinyl, aluminium, and fiberglass. And while all of these options have their own advantages, they may also vary in price, durability, and energy efficiency, so you should always make decisions after carefully considering your expectations and budget.
- Energy-efficiency
Choosing windows with good thermal performance is incredibly important if you want to make your home more energy-efficient. By investing in double or even triple-glazed windows, you’ll be able to lower your energy costs. Plus, they are also much better at keeping the unwanted noises from the outside at bay than older windows.
There is a common misconception that expensive products are characterized by higher quality. But while it’s true that quality often leads to higher prices, we shouldn’t just assume that it’s always the case. Because in reality, you should never base your decision solely on the price. It’s always worth considering all the factors listed above – and if you choose the right windows, they’ll be able to serve their purpose for many years to come!
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