Choosing the right window for your Pacific NW Home deserves some thought as windows provide a home with some of its most characteristic features. There are also elements like energy efficiency and moisture prevention to think about when selecting the windows for your home.
Frame First
The frame of your window does not just offer an aesthetic appeal. Your window frame choice can help save you on your energy bill, prevent moisture from getting inside and help you stay within your budget when shopping for windows. Some frames, like wood, are not conducive to the Pacific NW climate though they do offer the best insulative value making it important for you to understand the pros and cons of each one.
Vinyl
Vinyl is the most cost-efficient choice for window framing. A properly installed vinyl window can offer excellent energy efficiency as they reduce air leakage and they require little to no maintenance, unlike other framing options. Vinyl frames are limited in color choices but for some fewer options make the decision process easier.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass window frames are a mixture of glass fibers and polyester resins. These frames are more expensive than other frames but they are extremely energy efficient due to their low thermal conductivity and are the most durable on the market. Unlike vinyl or wood, these do not twist or warp and they can be repainted several times for aesthetic appeal.
Wood
Wood framing offers the best insulation for its value but the downside is that they require a lot of upkeep. Due to the fact that wood has the potential to rot, this frame choice is not necessarily the best for the climate of the Pacific Northwest. However, with a well-built wood window, it has the potential to last a lifetime, especially with high-quality wood and craftsmanship.
A Design That Fits Your Home
Choosing your design for the windows in your home will most likely be based on your goals for the home. Aesthetics, energy efficiency, viewpoints, privacy and the space within your home will all factor into which window designs you choose.
Double Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are a traditional choice for many homes. These windows have a bottom unit that slides up to open the window to fresh air. Though it can be an efficient choice, the style of this window allows for air to get in between the sliders which could cause problems for climates with a lot of moisture in the air.
Casement Windows
Casement windows have a crank that swings the window outward to open the window unit. In areas, with high wind, these windows can be a great option as they actually tighten themselves when the wind blows toward the house. This does however cause a need for regular maintenance on the hinges and seals to maintain stability and efficiency, especially in coastal regions.
Picture Windows
Picture windows are a way to bring light into a home without having the purpose of letting air in and out since they do not typically open. With larger picture windows, glass choice and gas-filled interiors are especially important.
Sliding Windows
A sliding window is one that opens by sliding horizontally along both the top and bottom track in the window frame. They are similar to double-hung windows if you were to imagine it turned on their side. These windows have a few different style options to meet the look you desire for your home. These windows are easy to operate, are durable and low maintenance, and offer unobstructed views. These windows can be prone to getting water in the sill which can cause problems.
Awning Windows
Awning windows are windows that hinge at the top and open outward from the bottom allowing ventilation without the rain getting inside. These windows are usually placed up higher on the walls for privacy and can be used in combination with large stationary windows for more lighting and viewing.
Bay Windows
Bay windows are windows that project outward from the main wall creating a space within a room. These windows offer a lot of character to a home both inside and out and come in a variety of variations depending on your style choice. Bow windows are similar to bay windows but they are curved in shape and designed like casement windows.
The Benefit Of New Windows
There are many benefits to new windows. New windows are built to reduce drafts improving the comfort of your home as well as helping you save money on your energy bills. Vinyl and fiberglass options are low maintenance as they are easy to clean and never need to be painted.
New windows also help to reduce noise so that you don’t hear everything going on outside and the neighbors can’t hear you either! They are also safer than windows on older homes as they have been tested for forced entry and designed to improve safety.
Lastly, new windows will always add to the curb appeal both inside and out making them a great selling point if that happens to be your plan.
If you are in need of new windows to replace older ones or you are looking to buy windows for your new home give us a call today and talk to us about how we can help!
