The window construction industry is changing so fast and replacing older windows is a necessity. New sets of windows could make your home appear more appealing and most importantly, make it more energy-efficient. We identified some of the key things you should be aware of before going shopping for new windows.
Windows play an essential role in our homes, and we need to pay attention to them. For instance, they have to withstand strong winds, storms and the cold. We expect that over time, the windows will give up and start letting in weather elements in a home, and that is what makes a home hard to heat and cool. However, should you always replace your windows whenever you feel a draft? Complete window replacement is essential, and the windows Edmonton has available are plentiful. But if you identify the problem earlier, you can start by weather-stripping your windows to keep elements off, which will reduce your energy utility bills significantly. Take a peek here.
1. Differentiate Between a “Replacement Window” and a “Retrofit Window”
New construction of windows will involve cutting back on the concrete and removal of the flashing fabric and the existing window. The constructor then will fix the new window, install new flashing fabric, and finally replace the concrete. Your new windows will be the exact size as your older window; however, the new and the old concrete might not contract at an equal rate, leaving cracks on the concrete. Perhaps you might consider replacing all the window concrete to give it uniformity.
With retrofit, on the other hand, it does not necessitate damage to the stucco, as you do not need to remove the perimeter of the existing frame. The new retrofit window will be intended to fit your existing window frame.
2. Consider the Kind of Windows You Have at the Moment
Remember that fitting retrofit windows for both metal and wooden frames requires different methods and skills. Consult with your contractor on the kind of fitting you want for your window depending on the material of your older window.
3. Know the Window Frame Material You Want for Your New Windows
Consider different window frame material, as they all have their advantages and disadvantages; know what you want in advance. Vinyl, for instance, is the most prevalent as it is easy to maintain, can insulate well, is smooth to operate for a window and is cheap. They, however, are only found in white and dark and cannot be tinted. Aluminum windows, on the other hand, can be found in grey bronze shiny frames. Fibreglass frames are quite expensive, but they insulate well and can be painted according to your taste in colours. Wooden frames are readily available and are low maintenance for your window frames, yet they need regular painting.
4. Choose the Glass Option That Is Suitable for You
Consider whether you could want a single-glazed or a dual-glazed glass window. A single-glazed unit comes with just a single layer of glass while a dual-glazed pane has duo layers of glass with a hermetically impenetrable air space in between the layers of glass. The dual-layered glass will effectively insulate a house, but most experts say that the hermetically sealed glass will fail ultimately after ten years and is most likely to lack insurance and warranty, costing you in the long run as you will need to replace them frequently. The low-E glass allows low emissions into the house, as it has a high-technology coating that blocks a lot of heat and ultraviolet heat radiations from entering a home. You might consider going for cheaper and less maintenance coating, which will help your windows stay clean and easy to maintain.
5. Know Whether You Would Love to Have Portioned Lites or Not
True portioned lites are used to typically divide the glass into smaller rectangles and are mostly seen in wooden windows.
6. Confirm the Manufacturer’s Warranty
Some windows by Edmonton manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty, but “lifetime” will differ in meaning from one company to another. Some take a lifetime to be a period between 10 to 20 years. You should, therefore, read their terms carefully regarding warranty.
The window construction industry is changing so fast, and replacing older windows is a necessity. New sets of windows could make your home appear more appealing and, most importantly, make it more energy-efficient.