Windows 101
Tips for selecting the right windows for your home.
If you’re thinking about building a new home, or remodeling your existing one, you may wonder about how to select the best windows for your project. Pella has been about bringing you innovative windows and doors that do more than frame the landscape — they make life easier with meaningful details that matter every day.
Before you begin, consider this: windows affect the appearance of both the inside and outside of your home and can make a huge different in your overall level of comfort and enjoyment in your home. Take time to learn more about the virtually limitless style and function options to maximize your window investment and enjoyment for many years.
Elements to consider:
Appearance — Choose a window that will look good from the inside as well as the outside of your home. For maximizing light flow into the home, rather than keeping an insect screen in place all year, consider a window with a screen that rolls up and out of sight when not in use, or one that is engineered to allow more natural light and air to flow through.
Energy efficiency — Get the facts about factors that relate to energy efficiency, like U-values and Low-E insulating glass with argon* windows and weatherstripping. U-values measure the insulating value of windows and other fenestration products. The lower the U-value, the better job a window does in keeping out heat and cold (which is the opposite of R-value — the higher the R-value, the better insulation in the walls and ceilings). A low U-value is important in all climates. In climates where air conditioning is important, choose a window with a lower solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) to block more of the sun’s heat rays. Compare efficiency ratings before you purchase a window to help lower heating and cooling costs and make the most of your investment.
An easy way to choose energy-efficient windows is to look for products that meet ENERGY STAR® requirements. The ENERGY STAR program was created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy to help consumers identify windows and other products that save energy.
Most high-performing windows today have glass coated with a Low-E microscopic film. The Low-E coating improves thermal performance and stops much of the sun’s heat rays and damaging UV rays while only slightly tinting the window.
Function — Test the ease of operating a given window style before you buy it. Does it open smoothly? Is it easy to clean? If it’s a casement window, does the crank handle fold away to leave window fashions undisturbed? Keep in mind where the window will be placed — will it be easy to open, for instance, if it’s over the sink or another hard-to-reach spot? If the window will be a means of an escape exit in case of fire, make sure it opens easily and provides an adequately-sized opening to meet the needs of local building codes for emergency exits.
Installation — Window installation may be relatively straight forward or may be quite complex. If you are considering enlisting the services of a professional, it may be wise to inquire about installation services prior to purchasing your windows.
Location — Keep in mind which direction your windows will face and how much sunlight or whether they will be exposed to. Sometimes you can get too much of a good thing — oversized windows featuring standard glass can allow too much hot sun into a home during summer months. Consider selecting windows with between-the-glass shades or blinds for enhanced privacy. Select windows featuring Low-E coatings to protect your furnishings from overexposure to the summer’s hot sun.
Maintenance — How important is exterior maintenance to you? For the ultimate in convenience, consider virtually maintenance-free aluminum cladding that will keep your windows looking beautiful for years to come. Are the windows designed for ease of cleaning from the home’s interior? Are grilles protected between panes of glass to make cleaning a breeze? Are hardware options easy to maintain and operate?
Options — Don’t forget about the importance of color options in reflecting your style and adding to the appeal of your home. Some manufacturers offer limited exterior colors choices, while others offer custom colors to match your decor. The sky’s the limit when it comes to color choices, from standard options to custom colors to reflect your unique style. And color doesn’t end with the window itself. Today’s window hardware coordinates with other hardware options in your home, such as cabinetry hardware, faucets and other fixtures.
Personal preference — What style of windows do you prefer? Classic or contemporary? With grilles or without? If you make a quality window purchase, you will likely live with your decision for many years. Select a style that reflects your preference.
Price — Shop around, and remember, you get what you pay for. The least expensive window probably isn’t your best buy. A good quality window should provide decades of beauty and performance.
Purpose — Choose the right style and size for each window. Do you want the window to frame the view outside or simply provide ventilation? Will it function as an operable window or will it be a non-opening decorative accent for the outside of the home?
When you choose Pella Windows, you’re buying more than just a window or door. You’re getting the experience and service of local Pella professionals who are proudly committed to your satisfaction. Pella has remained passionate about creating a better view for you – for more than 85 years.
