New Window Installation: 9 Considerations for Joliet Homeowners
Did you know that replacing your windows could help you be more energy efficient and save money? New windows help eliminate drafts to help your home feel warmer in those winter months. If you’re considering a new window installation, you might wonder if it’s right for you. What are the benefits and considerations you should think about? While it might seem overwhelming to choose your next window, it doesn’t have to be. Read this guide on considerations Joliet homeowners should remember when choosing new window installations. 1. Energy Efficiency Before hiring window installation services in Joliet, IL, find out the various factors that relate to energy. There’s weather stripping and Low-E insulating glass. The lower the U-value, the window performs better with maintaining the temperature. Whereas with the R-value, there’s better insulation in the walls and ceilings. Find products that meet the Energy Star requirements. It was created by the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to help consumers when buying new windows. Check the U-value since this is most important in cooler climates. 2. Appearance You’ll want a window that matches the theme of your home for the inside and outside. Some windows have screens that roll up and remain out of sight when not used. Others might have different special benefits. Check the location of your windows. See if the window frames will match the weather elements and sunlight in that area. You might receive too much sun in the summer if you go too large. For extra privacy, you might want to choose blinds or between-the-glass shades. 3. The Frame A wood frame is less prone to cold and heat transfer than aluminum. This doesn’t mean that wood is always the best choice. Wood is often the way to go if you’re looking to save on the utility bill. Wood frames do require more upkeep, though. There’s also the potential of rot. Be sure to choose high-quality species and cuts for frames. Alternatively, aluminum is a good option for humid and rainy climates. They’re also better suited for areas that a hurricane could hit. Composite Frames Composite frames are made from scrap wood shavings and plastic resins. They’re maintenance-free and look like wood. They’re eco-friendly since they’re made from recycled plastics. Wood-clad has a temperature-resistant wood interior. They also have a low-maintenance exterior. Clad windows could experience water intrusion, though. This could cause rotting where the water pools. Hiring top home window replacement experts in Joliet, IL, is vital and they can help you choose the right frames for your windows. Fiberglass Fiberglass is a type of composite window since it’s a mixture of polyester resins and glass fibers. It’s often separate from other composite windows, though. Fiberglass tends to be more expensive than other frames. It’s energy efficient and durable. They could also be repainted multiple times. You also don’t have to worry about them warping. 4. Installation Pay attention to the material your window install company in Plainfield is using. Ask them about the materials and if they’re built to last. One of the top concerns is if the material is waterproof. Casement Windows Casement windows are a population option to keep the wind out. They seal themselves when the wind blows toward your home. However, casement windows do require maintenance on hinges and seals. Double-Hung Windows Double-hung windows are a popular option in many homes. The bottom slides up to open it. Avoid placing them in extreme climate locations. Picture Windows Pictures windows come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They usually don’t open. Gas-filled interiors and the choice of glass are vital for installation. 5. Budget Your budget is important for window costs. Consider the cost of the replacement, installation, and the window itself. Decide how much you’re willing to spend in advance. Don’t fall in love with a style until you know it fits your budget. 6. Your Home’s Settings Pay attention to where the sun rises and sets in your home and its landscape. Consider what windows will go with the functionality of each location and how it’ll look overall. You might want windows with extra UV protection in areas with more direct sunlight. In locations with less light, you won’t need to pay for extra UV protection. 7. Safety You’ll want windows that only open from the top or double-hung options for homes with children. This will help reduce the chance of a child falling out. Consider windows that’ll help reduce the chance of break-ins. This is most important on the lower floor. 8. Warranty See what warranty is available for your new residential windows. Coverage can vary per product. Read the warranty to better understand what will and won’t be covered. Find out if the warranty is transferrable if you sell your home. Having warranty protection could influence the resale value. 9. Maintenance Decide how much maintenance you’ll be comfortable with. Decide if you’ll clean them regularly or hire someone else. For example, wood frames will require more upkeep than fiberglass or vinyl. What to Consider for a New Window Installation This guide provides an overview of various factors to consider when choosing a new window installation. Take your time researching the different options and deciding which is best. Are you ready to get started with your next window installation, and you’re in the Plainfield or Joliet area? We can help! You call, and we install. Send us a message today to get started. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we have a portfolio of previous work to show you.