A quality window is a critical part of your home. Whether you are looking to increase your curb appeal or reduce energy bills, new windows can make all the difference.
Choose a company that offers a wide range of options for your home. For example, aluminum windows provide a modern look and are durable, while triple pane windows have the highest energy efficiency.
Aluminum
When it comes to window replacement, homeowners can choose from a wide range of materials. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the needs of the homeowner. Some of the main factors to consider are energy efficiency, durability, and maintenance requirements.
Aluminum windows are strong and offer a sleek, modern look. They also require minimal maintenance and are more resistant to weather elements than wood or fiberglass frames. They can withstand extreme temperatures without swelling or cracking. However, they are not as energy-efficient as other options. Still, they are a great choice for homeowners who prefer minimalist style. They also come in a variety of colors and can be customized to fit your home design.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass windows are manufactured to withstand extreme heat and cold and won’t expand or contract, which helps seal air leaks and boosts energy efficiency. They’re also a great replacement for older wood or vinyl windows.
This material is a newcomer to the window market, but it’s gaining popularity due to its durability and versatility. It allows for thinner frames, which means more glass exposure and a lighter appearance. It can also be textured to look like wood, which can add a traditional touch to your home.
Another benefit of fiberglass is that it’s less prone to color fading than vinyl. However, it’s not immune to it and may still need to be repainted periodically.
Steel
The style of your windows and doors is an important part of your home’s interior design. It should complement your aesthetic preferences and energy efficiency goals. Choose a local installer that works with trusted, long-lasting brands and offers energy-saving window options.
Look for a window manufacturer that offers historically accurate steel frame and muntin (supporting strip) profiles. This is especially important for historical preservation and new construction projects that require preserving an established historic aesthetic.
Look for a manufacturer that uses solid, hot-rolled steel rather than a thermal break in its frames. A thermal break weakens the steel and increases condensation risk. Solid steel conducts heat and cold only one-fifth as rapidly as aluminum, and it has minimal frame dimensions to further decrease thermal transfer.
Composite
In Alabama’s extreme climate, homeowners often choose composite windows that are triple pane with argon gas filling and Low-E glass for maximum energy efficiency. This glazing prevents heat flow through the window, saving Hoover residents money on their energy bills.
Composite windows come in a range of design options, allowing homeowners to find the aesthetic that matches their home. They also resist moisture, rot, and insect damage and require minimal maintenance tasks like painting or staining.
While wood is a popular choice for many homes, composite offers better durability and energy performance. Additionally, composite windows are more affordable than authentic wood. They also have superior dimensional stability that resists expansion and contraction over time.
Low-E Glass
Choosing windows and doors with low-e glass is a great way to make your home more energy efficient. These windows have a special coating that reflects thermal radiation, keeping the house warmer in winter and cooler in summer. They also reduce the amount of wear and tear on your air conditioner and furnace.
Look for ENERGY STAR certified windows that have a Low-E coating formulated specifically for your climate zone. You can also opt for argon gas, which is filled between the panes of double-pane windows and adds extra insulation for lower energy costs. Aside from reducing heat, it also blocks UV radiation that causes sunburn and can fade fabrics and furnishings over time.
Argon Gas
Argon gas windows are a great investment because they help reduce your energy bills. They can also help to prevent moisture from forming between the window seals, which can lead to frost and condensation. These windows are effective in all climates and they can be used for both double and triple pane windows.
Argon is an inexpensive, colorless and odorless noble gas that is often used in the construction of double or triple pane energy-efficient windows. This is due to its ability to reduce heat transference and because it can be combined with low-E glass coatings. It is also used for arc welding, light bulb production and in SCUBA dry suits.