When considering window replacement, there are many options available. Some are more energy efficient than others, reducing strain on HVAC systems and saving on energy bills. You can also choose a style that is aesthetically pleasing.
A reputable window installation company can help you navigate the options and select the best one for your needs. It will also ensure that the windows are installed properly, mitigating problems like rot and water damage.
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are durable and energy-efficient. They are easy to maintain and offer a range of styles to suit your home. Vinyl is also water-resistant and resists rot, insects, and mold.
It is made from a polymer that combines two hydrocarbon-based raw materials, ethylene and chlorine. This unique chemical structure makes vinyl less sensitive to fluctuations in world oil prices than most other polymers.
A quality installation is the key to a long-lasting vinyl window. This includes accurate measurements and careful removal of the old windows. It also requires skill and experience to ensure a tight fit, seal, and insulation. Only professionals can provide these services.
Wood
The windows on your home are a big part of its beauty and energy efficiency. Old or damaged windows can cause drafts, high energy bills and discomfort. Luckily, window installation professionals can help you upgrade your windows to reduce these problems and increase the value of your property.
Wood is a popular choice for window replacement, offering an elegant look that blends well with many architectural styles. It’s durable and easy to maintain with regular dusting and cleaning with soap and water. It can also resist moisture, making it a good choice for humid climates where mold often occurs. Wood windows are expensive, but they last a long time and add a touch of luxury to your home.
Steel
Steel windows offer an industrial aesthetic and supreme durability. They can be crafted to complement any architectural style, and they require minimal maintenance. Steel windows are also energy-efficient, with low U-values and minimal framing profiles.
They can be installed with decorative features, such as brickmould and art glass, to enhance the look of a home or business. This company handles commercial and residential window installation projects. It provides window and door installation, as well as storefront repair and curtain wall construction. It also offers historical preservation services. It serves clients in the greater Birmingham area. Clients can get in touch via phone or email.
Composite
Whether your old windows are letting in drafts or you simply want to improve the look of your house, window replacement is an investment in both appearance and functionality. Navigating the process is easier when you understand the pros and cons of different materials and styles.
For example, wood windows have a traditional appeal but require regular maintenance. Another option is composite, which offers the elegance of wood without the hassles. Interstate’s composite windows, for instance, are made of solid cellular PVC and resist the elements better than wood. They withstand high heat and freezing cold without sagging or warping. They also have a low thermal expansion rate and are resistant to rotting.
Low-E Glass
Low-E glass uses a microscopically thin coating that reflects thermal radiation, keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer. It also blocks UV radiation, which can bleach your furniture and fade your carpets.
Its disadvantages include a reduction in natural light entry and an initial cost that’s higher than uncoated windows. However, you can mitigate these by choosing ENERGY STAR windows that align with your climate zone.
You can also improve your energy efficiency by selecting windows with double panes and argon gas fill. Argon gas acts as a natural insulator to reduce heat transfer, which can significantly lower your energy bills.
Argon Gas
Argon gas is a colorless and odorless noble gas that has become a popular choice for energy-efficient windows. It improves insulation and reduces condensation on window glass. It can be used in double or triple-pane windows and is ideal for homes in any climate.
The advantages of argon windows are that they minimize the transfer of heat, which makes your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This will lower your energy bills, reduce carbon emissions and protect carpets and furniture from sun and heat damage. These windows are also better at blocking harmful UV rays. They are more effective than krypton gas windows in this respect.