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Windows
are a key element of home décor, often taken for granted. They affect
light, ventilation and temperature as well as the comfort of the home's
occupants. Windows also contribute to architectural identity, conveying
period and style. When you're choosing new windows, be sure the styles
you select suit your home both practically and aesthetically.
Do I Need New or Replacement Windows?
What's the difference between a replacement window and a "new" window?
Aren't they both new? Yes, but there is a difference. Normally used in
new construction, "new" windows have a nailing flange used to attach
them to the rough opening in the wall. They're attached with nails
driven into the exterior casing or brick mould on the outside and
through the jambs on the inside.
A replacement window has no nailing flange and fits into an existing
window frame. Replacements are easier to install and preferred unless
the existing frame is damaged and needs replacing.
Window Styles
Windows come in many shapes, sizes and types and are made from a variety
of materials. So how do you select the right ones? There are several
things to consider: your budget, your home's style and how you want the
window to perform. Think about the relative importance of ventilation
and security and how easy it should be to maintain. And decide whether
you want to emphasize the window as a focal point or have it serve a
more practical purpose.
Windows are either fixed or operable. Fixed windows are stationary units
mounted within a frame. They're great for letting in light and exposing
views but provide no ventilation. Among the more visually interesting
choices are octagonal, half-circle or ellipse windows. There are several
different types of operable windows. All operable windows come equipped
with hardware for opening and closing the sash, latching and locking.
Sliding Windows
These work well at sealing in energy. They may have one or more fixed
panels and one or more panels that slide in horizontal tracks. Only half
of the total window may be opened for ventilation at one time.
Double-Hung Windows
Classic in style, double-hung windows have an upper, outside sash that
slides down and a lower, inside sash that slides up. Hidden springs,
weights or friction devices help lift, lower and position the sash. With
certain types, the sash can be removed, rotated or tilted for cleaning.
If only one sash slides, the window is called vertical sliding or
single-hung.
Casement Windows
Hung singly or in pairs, a casement window is operated by cranks that
swing the sash outward or inward. It opens fully for easy cleaning and
offers excellent ventilation because it can scoop in breezes. Casement
windows are used primarily in new construction.
An awning window is like a horizontal, top-hinged casement window that
tilts out at the bottom, offering partial ventilation, an unobstructed
view and reasonably good security. A top-opening style, typically placed
low on a wall, is called a hopper window. Awning windows are used
primarily in new construction.
Accent or Picture Windows
Style and variety are the key features of this group. Choose a unique
shape such as round or octagonal or perhaps a traditional rectangular,
bay or bow window.
Glass Block Windows
The thick break-resistant glass enhances home security, allowing privacy
but still letting light into your home.
Skylights
Skylights and tubular skylights provide a lot of natural light with a
minimum of space. Many look just like an overhead light fixture – only
no electricity. Some tubular skylights are pre-assembled to various
degrees to make installation easy. Due to their relatively small size
they work with any roof support type without cutting and reinforcing
joists.
Window Materials
Windows are made from a variety of materials, including wood, aluminum,
steel, vinyl and fiberglass-or from a combination of these materials. In
general, those that offer better weather protection cost more, but they
pay off in low maintenance and energy savings.
• Wood - Wood tends to be the most popular window material, particularly
for the parts of a window that are seen from indoors. Wood doesn't
conduct cold or allow for condensation as much as other materials. Wood
windows typically come unfinished unless you order them otherwise. If
you intend to paint them, save work by purchasing them already primed on
the exterior or interior surfaces of the frame and sash. You can
eliminate painting altogether by buying them pre-painted in some
standard colors.
• Clad-Wood - You'll find that many of today's windows are wood inside
and clad on the outside with a tough, attractive exterior jacket of
extruded aluminum or vinyl. The cladding, available in a few stock
colors, covers both sash and frame; it'll keep windows virtually
maintenance-free for years. With vinyl, the color permeates the material
so scratches don't show. Aluminum may scratch, but it's tougher,
available in a wider variety of colors and easier to paint. (Vinyl and
aluminum shouldn't require painting.) Neither type will rust or rot.
• Aluminum - Aluminum windows are more durable than bare wood, thinner,
lighter and easier to handle. They're insulated with a thermal break of
extruded vinyl and sometimes also foam, which reduces heat loss and
condensation.
• Vinyl - Vinyl windows are made from rigid, impact-resistant polyvinyl
chloride (PVC), with hollow spaces inside to make them resistant to heat
loss and condensation. Inexpensive vinyl windows may become harder to
operate over time and allowing for air leakage.
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