When I first came to live in my present house, I didn’t pay much attention to the windows. To me, they were simply. there. Clear glass, open and shut, nothing special, right?
Well, before long I discovered just how much the right (or wrong) windows impact everyday life. Remember that first winter how drafts crept in, chilling the living room despite how high I turned up the heater. That was when I got it: windows aren’t merely about appearance; they dictate comfort, utility bills, and even mood.
In this article, I’m going to take you through all that I’ve discovered about selecting the correct windows from look and material to energy efficiency with loads of real examples, so you don’t get caught out like me did.
Why Your Windows Matter More Than You Know
Windows are sometimes referred to as “the eyes of the home,” but they’re more than just for show.
They manage light and ventilation. I recall moving my home office to sit in front of the window simply for more daylight it improved my mood immediately.
They impact your utility bills. Drafty, old windows lose heat in the winter and gain heat in the summer, making your heating and air conditioning system work twice as hard.
They determine your home’s curb appeal. When we replaced our front windows, our several neighbors complimented how much newer the house appeared and we hadn’t even repainted!
Types of Windows: Getting the Right Fit
Double-Hung vs. Single-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows can be opened from both the top and bottom, whereas single-hung windows can only be opened from the bottom.
I changed from single-hung to double-hung in my kitchen and oh boy, cleaning was a whole lot easier. I’m able to tilt the panes in and clean both sides without having to use a ladder.
Casement and Awning Windows
Casement windows crank open, and awning windows (usually) above or below other windows open outward from the bottom.
We put casement windows in our bathroom for enhanced air flow. Even in rain, we were able to open them slightly without letting water in. Game-changer!
Picture Windows
These big fixed-pane windows don’t open but give an unobstructed view.
In our living room, the large picture window looking out into the garden makes the room appear double its size. We complemented it with smaller operable windows on either side for ventilation.
Sliding and Bay Windows
Sliding windows open horizontally and are ideal for large openings.
Bay windows project outward, forming a snug nook and giving more space.
I once stayed at a friend’s house with a bay window snuggling up there with a book seemed magical, nearly like having your own little reading haven.
Materials Matter: Wood, Vinyl, Aluminum, or Fiberglass?
Wood Windows
Lovely, traditional, and good insulators but they require frequent maintenance.
I painted and weatherstripped my wooden window frames myself last year, and though it was work, they now look beautiful.
Vinyl Windows
Easy to maintain and inexpensive, vinyl is resistant to moisture.
My neighbor installed new vinyl windows in place of all her old wood ones, and she said her heating bill was down 20% last winter.
Aluminum Windows
Thin-profile frames strong but poor insulators.
We utilized aluminum windows in the garage where insulation wasn’t a priority but we needed durability.
Fiberglass Windows
Low maintenance, energy efficient, and durable.
They’re more expensive, but a friend guarantees them for her oceanfront home, where salt air can weaken less durable materials.
Energy Efficiency: What to Look For
Double or Triple Glazing
Having multiple panes decreases heat transfer and insulates better.
We went from single-pane to double-pane in the bedrooms, and I could see the rooms were cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Low-E Coatings
They’re thin, reflective coatings that bounce back heat but allow light in.
We installed Low-E coatings on south-facing windows to reduce the intense afternoon sun it made the living room much more comfortable.
ENERGY STAR Ratings
Search for windows that are ENERGY STAR certified for promised performance.
After installing three new windows with ENERGY STAR models, our electricity bill decreased significantly in a matter of months.
How to Select the Right Windows: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Determine Your Needs
Do you require improved insulation?
More daylight?
Simplified cleaning or operation?
Step 2: Determine a Budget
Windows vary greatly in cost based on size, style, and material.
Tip: Request several installers’ quotes for comparison.
Step 3: Learn About Materials
Think about long-term energy efficiency and maintenance you desire.
Step 4: Target High-Impact Areas
If you can’t replace all your windows, begin with the worst culprits such as drafty family rooms or uninsulated bedrooms.
Step 5: Have a Reliable Expert
While some handy homeowners can install windows, most homeowners (such as myself!) find it helpful to hire skilled contractors to provide snug installation.
Windows are one of those aspects of your home you don’t appreciate until you upgrade them. From saving energy to changing the appearance and ambiance of your rooms, the proper windows are an investment in comfort, aesthetics, and savings.
