Did you know that windows account for between 25-30% of your heating and cooling costs? Installing energy efficient windows and properly maintaining them will save money long term while simultaneously lowering monthly expenses.
Locating the ideal window manufacturer and company is essential. Different materials, certifications and brands all play an integral role in the durability and efficiency of new windows. Once you select one or two brands and products to browse windows from, you will discover an abundance of designs and choices available to you.
Make this process less daunting by consulting this guide to discover the top five window brands to select for your home, as well as tips and considerations when making this important decision:
Four key considerations
Finding the ideal window brand involves four main considerations, such as frame, glass design and installation. Knowing what features to look out for will make your purchase decision easier and make your search for windows less of a guessing game.
The frame
Frames of windows are more than mere eye candy; they play an integral part in controlling energy flows through windows. Wood has long been considered an insulator due to its natural qualities; however, there are various other materials which offer superior thermal efficiency.
Vinyl: When it comes to windows, vinyl is a budget-friendly option for homeowners. Thanks to advances in manufacturing technology, vinyl windows now provide superior insulation and performance; with tight seals that prevent leaks. Their colors may or may not matter depending on your preferred style.
Wood: With proper maintenance, wood frames can last many years without needing replacement, but require greater upkeep than other materials. Without it being properly maintained, their effectiveness and functionality may decrease, leading to higher costs in the long run.
Aluminum: If you live near coastal environments or those where humidity and rain are frequent, aluminium frames may be an ideal choice. They won’t rust from salty air while remaining durable due to not expanding like wood cane. Furthermore, aluminium frames can easily be customized making it the ideal option for all purposes.
Fibreglass: Frames combine polyester resin and glass fibres that offer many advantages across several factors. Their construction makes them highly energy efficient while remaining sturdy and adjustable; their only drawback being higher costs than other materials but this investment should prove worthwhile over time.
The glass
Glass is the second element to consider and comes down to two options. Double-pane windows are currently the norm in homes and can make significant monthly savings, keeping cool or warm air inside while increasing overall efficiency and protecting furniture and floors from UV rays that could otherwise cause irreparable damage.
Triple-pane windows Canada feature an additional layer of glass to boost their efficiency, and thus save even more than double-pane ones. Selecting an ENERGY certified window, identified by stickers on their frame, is the easiest and most reliable way to select one – this ensures top ratings and guaranteed savings – such as U-Value resistance to loss of heat loss and solar heating coefficient measurements which measure how much heat is absorbed into the window respectively; when value falls, small savings numbers become the norm with an energy STAR window!
The design
Window design should reflect both aesthetics and security for your home. Certain windows are more secure against intrusion while others can add aesthetic value and be tailored to individual architectural styles of homes – popular examples being double-hung casement windows, awning sliders and bow or bay windows.
Double-hung windows: Double-hung windows feature two glass frames that slide open in order to let air in, making this popular design choice in homes at an economical cost.
Casement Windows: Casements use an open crank handle to open their windows at an angled, horizontal opening angle similar to that of doors, providing breezes into your home while protecting from intrusions. They’re especially great for getting airflow flowing freely while offering additional security against intrusions.
Awning windows: Similar to casement windows, awnings are opened by turning a crank; however, unlike their counterparts they pivot upwards rather than starting from the bottom. Awnings are ideal if you need access regardless of the weather or need them installed in basement spaces.
Slider Windows: As their name implies, slider windows operate by opening horizontally along a track. While certain styles only open one frame at a time, others allow both frames to open at once. They’re often preferred in older homes because they provide low costs with long lifespans.
Bow or Bay: Bay and bow windows have their own distinct designs despite appearing similar. Bay windows extend beyond a home in various angles while typically including three windows as standard; bow windows extend outwards but have up to six curving in an arc rather than having sharp angles.
Skylight and fixed windows are two popular window styles. While fixed windows tend to provide aesthetic value without offering opening functionality, skylights let in sunlight from above.
The installation
Installation of windows is no simple DIY job and should only be attempted by experienced professionals. Due to all of the work and expertise needed for successful window installations, it is recommended that they hire an expert contractor with years of experience and expertise. A business will complete this work within days or hours without leaving your home exposed to elements or risk. Unlike DIY firms, professional businesses will provide legal protection with warranties on their work performed that will protect any unexpected costs should any further repairs or maintenance become necessary later on.