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Windows 101

New Windows can be a major home investment and with over 240 window manufacturers producing a multitude of various models, figuring out which window suits your needs the best can be a headache. Armed with the proper knowledge however, choosing which window works for you can be a lot easier. Follow these guidelines to see what window works best and remember that if you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact WHI and we will help you figure out what will work best for you.

A higher grade window will pay for itself in the long run.

When buying windows you should ask yourself the following questions.

How long do I plan on staying in the home?

Is saving money on my energy bill important to me?

What style of window do I want?

What kind of frame do I want:wood, vinyl or other?

What is the warranty on the product and installation?

WINDOW QUALITY AND WHAT IT MEANS

Like cars, windows are produced in a multitude of types and grades, all suited best for different purposes. While some of the least expensive windows, often referred to as builders grade, have lifetime warranties, a higher grade of window will pay for itself in the long run. Higher grades of windows tend to have a better insulation level or (or "R" Level) and deteriorate less rapidly than lower grades. Be aware however, that poorly constructed windows can seem as functional as a higher quality window when new because it's difficult to tell the difference by appearances only. This leads to a common problem where the homeowner replaces a drafty old window with another sub-standard product leading to wasted time and money. Be sure you buy what suits your needs the best.

Low Performance windows, or builders grade windows, are designed for new home construction or where performance and durability are not as important as cost. The best application windows are for newly constructed homes to keep costs down. The investment on builders grade windows can generally be paid back in less than 2 years.

Medium performance windows combine price and durability to create a versatile window that is both long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing. About seven years or less is the time it takes for a homeowner to fully realize the cost effectiveness of medium grade windows in their home. Middle of the road in both price and construction, medium grade windows can deliver noticeable energy savings while not emptying the pocketbook.

High performance windows, like high performance cars, add a touch of artistry to a functional design. Enhancing the beauty of the home with unique designs while at the same time offering superior insulating value including up to R-10 on the glass and R-25 frames. They also block up to 98% of UV radiation. Their price is higher than the other grades of windows so staying in a home seven or more years is suggested to fully reap the financial investment of these windows.

Be wary of companies that try to pass off builders grade windows

as medium or high grade as they can often appear to be the same.

Ask questions and make sure you're getting what you pay for!

WINDOW STYLES AND PERFORMANCE DIFFERENCES

There are four basic designs of windows, and due to the regional climate differences, no one type is suitable for all homes.

Hung and Slider windows open down-to-up or side-to-side respectively. Easy to operate with few moving parts, they are some of the most common window styles due to their cost effectiveness. They can suffer from excessive heat loss if not constructed with a high wind rating or reinforced properly.

Casement windows, otherwise known as awning or hopper windows use a crank to open and close. Generally, casement windows have a higher cost due to more moving parts but are sturdier and can withstand wind better as it can actually reinforce the window's insulation instead of degrading it.

Fixed, or picture windows, offer the greatest insulation value due to it's fixed position. Because of this, cleaning may be more difficult than with other window styles.

Regardless of which style of windows works best for you, it is important to make sure that the windows have the best insulation value possible, often with the assistance of Low-E coating on the panes or the injection of argon gas between them. If the sealed area between the panes (known as the Insulated Glass or IG seal) is compromised, the window will deteriorate much more rapidly than the normal rendering your window investment useless. Make sure the IG seal is intact when the windows are installed, allowing you to reap the greatest energy savings possible.

Since it is important that the window fits snugly against the frame, make sure that the measurements are as accurate as possible. Sometimes installers can order a window that is much smaller than the frame just to be sure that it fits. WHI will send out the same installation professional to measure and install the window, eliminating confusion and ensuring that the largest possible window the opening will accommodate is installed.

Contact WHI here and we can help you make this decision offering you a FREE no obligation quote. Buying windows for your home is an important investment that you'll only want to do once. Ask lots of questions and do it right the first time.

Why Pay More?

303-887-9955

303-748-9485

303-887-9960

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