Saturday, August 25, 2012

What to Look For When Going Replacement Window Shopping

Shopping for a replacement window today provides homeowners with many options. From choosing the window's interior and exterior colors, hardware designs and panel configuration, shoppers can customize windows to their liking. Some of the most popular types of windows to replace include double hung, casement, bay/bow, picture/combination, gliding/sliding, specialty and awning styles. In addition to customizing windows, buyers also have the ability to purchase specialized window glass designed to be more energy efficient. The latest advances in window technology have yielded windows featuring High-Performance Low-E4 SmartSun glass. This glass is up to 56% more energy efficient in summer and up to 46% more in winter; compared to traditional double paned glass. These windows also allow for easier cleaning, as their coating reduces water spots. Additional benefits associated with SmartSun glass include the ability to block about 83% of UV rays and reduce outside noise.
Insect screen advancements and upgrades are found when purchasing a replacement window. While traditional aluminum and glass fiber screens are still available, new TruScene insect screens are composed with stainless steel mesh and measure one-third of the diameter found in traditional screens. TruScene insect screens are lightweight, high transparency screens that allow about 50% more clarity than traditional screens. If looking for the clearest, almost invisible screen on the market, a TruScene insect screen may suit your needs.
Many different types of windows are available to serve as a replacement window. Double hung windows are traditional-looking windows with upper and lower windows that open. These windows are perfect for people looking for increased ventilation in their homes. Double hung windows also have the ability to tilt, which allows for easy cleaning.
Casement windows are some of the most energy-efficient windows available. They have a ventilating style and are very easy to open. With a few cranks of the handle, the casement windows open. This makes them the perfect window choice for hard to reach or high areas. Casement windows are optimal for installing in children's rooms, handicapped people's homes and elderly residences since these require minimal effort and are the easiest windows to operate.
One of the most popular types of replacement window to purchase is bay/bow windows. A bay window consists of three window panels and is very angular in design. Bow windows, on the other hand, can have four or more window panels. This allows the window's appearance to resemble an arch and be more fluid in design. Both types of windows allow rooms to look larger and are the perfect choice for room additions.
If looking for a truly customizable window, try a picture window. These types of windows frame both the inside and outside of a house. Picture windows can be a mix and match combination of windows in order to achieve a desired look. The most popular types of picture windows come in casement and picture window combinations, double hung and picture window combinations, and gliding and picture window combinations. For shoppers interested in a sliding windows but not requiring a gliding and picture window combination unit, sliding/gliding windows are sold to homeowners looking for large, glass windows. Instead of opening up and down, these windows slide back and forth on tracks.
Sometimes, hard to find windows can be difficult to replace. Even more difficult is purchasing a specialty replacement window with energy efficient glass. Fortunately, specialty replacement windows in shapes of triangles, hexagons, circles, trapezoids and pentagons are available. These come in 13 differently-shaped designs and are manufactured in five different exterior colors.
The next time you are searching for a replacement window, don't settle for substandard materials. Purchase an energy-efficient window with TruScene insect screens and make the investment in your home's future. Your dwelling will benefit from the cosmetic improvements and your home's atmosphere will receive increased light and improved screen clarity.
Andy West is a writer on a variety of topics, including home improvement. From bay windows to double hung windows, you have many choices when choosing a replacement window.

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