Choosing House Windows: From Casement to Energy Efficient Windows

Information About the Types of House Windows

You probably already know that if you are building a new home or remodeling your current one, the windows that you choose will significantly affect the overall look. What you may not know is that they will also affect how energy-efficient your home is. However, it can be difficult to know what the difference is between the R-value and the U-factor. And what about all of those windows that claim to be low-E? It’s time to clear up all of the confusion! Here’s how to choose replacement windows (or new ones) for your house.

1. Style. Some styles of windows are more energy-efficient than others. The most energy efficient ones are casement windows. These open from a hinge, either at the top or one side of the window, by means of a crank that you turn. Because the sash is designed to fit tightly against the weather seal when closed, they let very little air through. In fact, when the wind blows against the glass of a casement-type window, it pushes it against the sash, which simply makes it seal even more tightly. These usually fit in best with a contemporary design. The second type is the double hung window. This is the more traditional style with which you may be familiar. They consist of a lower pane and an upper pane. When you wish to open it, you slide the lower pane upward. The weather seal that is used on double hung windows becomes damaged over time, which means it lets in more air than an undamaged seal. However, these windows can usually be tilted inward for cleaning, which makes them more convenient in this aspect. The third type of is a sliding window. This is basically a double hung window, but it slides from left to right, instead of up and down. It is subject to the same sort of abuse as a double hung window, which makes it just as inefficient.
2. R-value. This is the biggest factor in the energy efficiency. But the real question is — what in the world is R-value and how does it affect your windows? To put it simply, R-value is the measure of how much heat loss your windows are capable of preventing. Therefore, you want the highest R-value possible. The lowest R-value that is acceptable if you are trying to build an efficient home is R-3. Of course, the higher the rating, the more efficient the window. The corollary to that is the higher the R-value, the more expensive it will be. A good rule of thumb is to choose a window with the highest R-value that you can reasonably afford, in relation to the energy savings that you expect to receive. This is especially true if you live in a cold climate. Keep in mind that R-value is rated according to the window’s efficiency in the center of the glass. The edges will be less energy-efficient than the R-value reflects.
3. U-factor. This is the second big factor to consider. U-factor is the measure of how well your window prevents air leaks between the sash and the frame. U-factors less than 0.35 are considered energy efficient. If you live in a climate that is cold and windy, you’ll want to give just as much weight to the U-factor of your windows as the R-value. You may also want to consider relocating to somewhere that’s warm and sunny all year-round!

There you have it — the world of windows reduced to seven simple steps! Naturally, a well-insulated window is only as good as its installation, so always have them installed by a professional and make sure all of the seams are caulked and sealed well.

How to choose traditional windows for period homes

From sliding sashes to casement designs, traditional windows are integral to the character of an older property. We look at how to choose the best windows for a period home

Often referred to as the eyes of a house, traditional windows play a vital role in defining the character of a period property. Key components of overall appearance, they are inextricably linked with architectural style and it is often through examining windows that you can determine the age of a building.

Usually made from wood or metal, period windows are vulnerable to decay if not properly maintained and if you are renovating you might find you need to replace them. This guide will help you choose the best windows for your period home.

Find out more about windows on our dedicated pages.

Should I repair or replace old windows?

Original windows were made using traditional techniques that are hard to imitate today due to modern building regulations, and their unnecessary replacement erodes the character of period homes. This means it’s vital that very effort is made to preserve and maintain original windows.

Even if your windows look beyond repair – having succumbed to rot and broken glass – you’d be surprised at what can be achieved through expert restoration.

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Prices for restored sash windows depends on the work involved, but new designs start at £1,700 from Bath Bespoke

If your windows do not require structural repair, they can still be significantly improved. ‘Draught-proofing and repairing original windows can dramatically improve functionality, security and efficiency at a fraction of the cost of replacement,’ says Richard Dollar, managing director of The Sash Window Workshop.

Additionally, the whole-life environmental costs of replacement will be much greater than repairing the architectural treasures that already exist.

Single-glazed windows are often replaced with double glazing due to a fear of inefficiency. But you are unlikely to ever see a return on fuel bills, while the originals could have been upgraded. However, if they are too rotten to repair, inappropriate modern designs are present, or you are extending, you need to source authentic-looking new designs.

Use our guides, too, to find out:

Windows DIY Maintenance check

While larger jobs and repairs require professional skills, there are smaller maintenance tasks you can carry out to keep your windows in good condition.

• Fixing putty — The main damage to putty is caused by sunlight. Depending on the severity of the damage, putty will need to be repaired by filling the gaps, or replacing it. To replace, remove old putty using a scraper and allow the exposed wood to dry out. Then prime the wood with paint, allow to dry and replace the putty.
• Draught-proofing – Applying DIY draught-proofing is an easy fix for a common problem in period homes. Use draught strips, or brush seals for sash windows, which are available from DIY stores.
• Repainting – Regular painting of windows is vital as poorly maintained and unprotected timber will rot and swell. Make sure you prepare the surfaces, sanding down to remove all loose paint and stripping paint layers using gel-type strippers. Natural linseed oil paint offers good protection
• Oiling hinges and sashes – Check hinges, locks and catches. Where necessary, realign, ease, repair and lubricate them. Apply beeswax or tallow to the edges of sashes to help them run.

How much do new windows cost?

Windows are priced individually, but for the purposes of working out rough costs over large areas, these estimates are presented in metre square.

• Softwood casements: from £200 to £350 per m2
• Hardwood casements: from £350 to £500 per m2
• Timber sash windows: from £800 to £3,000 per m2
• Metal windows: from £300 to £600 per m2

Residence Collection offers timber alternative windows that have been approved for use in some listed properties;

How can I upgrade existing windows?

Old windows inevitably face threats such as warping, rotting, sticking, chipping and corrosion.

How To Choose The Right Windows For Your Home

October 25, 2017, 4:16 pm

If your windows have seen better days and need replacing, you need to look into replacing with better, more efficient Simply Plastics polycarbonate windows. More efficient windows such as these can significantly reduce your heating and cooling bills while adding value to your home.

When choosing windows for your home, look for a design that reflects your home architectural style. All homes are of a different style and distinctive design, making them unique. Whether you have a modern and contemporary home or a traditional Tudor style of house, you need to ensure that your windows compliment the house design, assuring the house flows naturally.

Read more after the jump:

The next thing to take into consideration is the purpose the windows will serve. While the basic purpose of windows is to allow light into the house, there are other purposes for having a particular window. The window can also act as a doorway. For example, sliding glass window doors for access to your garden or porch. Or they could be used for aesthetics and fixed or ornamental. Consider the purpose for having a window in a particular place i.e. To allow light into the room or for a specific view.

Depending on the colour and style of construction of your home, you may elect frames and mullions that provide colour to the exterior of your house. Look to manufacturers that offer colours already incorporated into the frame material. If you decide to give the exterior of your home a makeover and paint your mullions and frames, ask a paint professional for the best paint to use to get the best results.

One of the most crucial purposes of a window is to let ventilation and movement of fresh air in and out of your rooms. Deciding on which type of window suits your needs will help determine the type of window you will need to purchase. Many rooms have operable, meaning they can be opened and closed as needed. Fixed windows are unable to be opened. Generally, most homes have a combination of both types.

While the exterior aesthetic of your windows is important, remember how the window functions and looks in the interior of the building. For example, when replacing the windows in your bathroom, look at getting windows that will allow light into the room, but doesn’t allow direct viewing angles from the outdoors. However, for rooms in a more open and public space, decide if the view warrants large picture windows that allow the maximum amount of light and view, or the rooms function permits different sized and shaped windows. This will ensure your window compliments the room.

Now that you have read this article, you are filled with plenty of ideas as to how to choose the best windows for your house. You are now able to replace those old and worn out windows with new and efficient windows that are capable of renovating the look of your home and complimenting the design and structure of your house.

A Guide to Choosing Windows for Your Home

Styles for House Windows

Numerous types of house windows exist, and so it’s important to decide what style will best fit your home’s particular style. Here are some basic descriptions for the most common types of house windows.

Fixed: O ne of the most basic house windows around, fixed windows are cheap and cannot be opened. As such, they’re often used in high places, or in rooms that won’t need much ventilation. These windows are easy to clean.

Double Hung: Another basic window, double hung windows move up and down using a system of sashes and can be easily opened. Double hung house windows are often used in period homes, but they’re also perfect for rooms that need plenty of airflow.

Casement: These house windows open using a crank system that swings the pane out horizontally, just like a door. While they’re a little more expensive than the average fixed or double hung window, casement windows are exceptionally weathertight, and are good choices for homeowners who must be especially considerate of the elements.

Picture: often used in ranch-style house, picture windows are generously proportioned fixed windows “framed” by either casement or double hung windows.

There are many different kinds of house windows to choose from. | @ fotolia.com / arsdigital

Frame Materials for House Windows

Now that you’ve chosen the style for your house windows, it’s time to pick materials for the frame. Again, there are many different options on the market, but you’ll find some of the most common frame materials below.

Wood: A classic building material, wood is an exceptional insulator and an excellent choice for your house windows. However, wood frames generally require considerable upkeep and are not the best choices for homeowners living in wet climates, as they are especially susceptible to rot.

Vinyl: One of the cheapest materials for house windows, vinyl is a great choice for homeowners on a budget. Vinyl is generally energy efficient and relatively easy to maintain, although it does tend to lack the elegant quality of a real wood frame.

Fiberglass: Durable and energy efficient, fiberglass is a popular frame material for house windows for a variety of reasons. While more expensive than many other materials, fiberglass is strong, requires minimal upkeep, and will shut drafty air out of your home for good. It’s also very easy to paint.

Glass for House Windows

Last but not least, you need to choose glass for your house windows. While it’s tempting to opt for single paned house windows, you’re likely to lose a lot of hot air in the winter and cool air during the summer relying on one pane of glass. As such, it’s worth spending the extra money for low-E, double paned windows, as these extra measures will ensure that your home maintains its desired temperature for longer, resulting in significant savings when it comes to your energy bills.

Check out our detailed resources on each type of window and window material to learn more about the best house windows. Also, don’t forget to check out our helpful contractor database to find skilled contractors to install your house windows.