While the popular belief is that replacing your windows can surely cut your spending habits on energy usage, there are more beneficial reasons on why it is effective to do so. On the contrary, there are various factors to consider to complete the best purchase on your windows such as research, evaluating costs, design aesthetics, and more. Explore our blog for tips you need to know before making the final decision on which replacement windows will work more efficiently for your home.
Windows to Match Climate
A great tool to utilize is to check out window ratings that specifically correspond to your location. Weather and climate are imperative components to consider when selecting replacement windows. For example, homeowners that are located in areas that experience high winds and lower colder weather should seek out windows that can withstand dropping temperatures and are wind resistant (such as composite, vinyl, or fiberglass). Spend Wisely Facing the facts, upgrades can add up to 50 percent or more in costs to your replacement windows.
To bypass any unneeded spending, focus on significant features that add value to your home. Just as mentioned above, purchase windows that are perfect for your location and climate and consider other important necessary factors such as energy efficiency, air quality, easy cleaning ability, etc. However, if there is an aesthetic feature that you must have or want, by all means, get that feature! Special features like decorative grids, special colors, and decorative glass can also add to the value of your home and just as importantly, give you a design you can be happy seeing every day. Please take a look at our bathroom window ideas for inspiring ideas that may help you choose your next window replacement.
Like we tell our clients, if you are going to do this once in your lifetime why not get what you want? Need more sunlight? Consider finer meshed screens to invite more natural light in without interfering with the view compared to general screens.
Understand the Numerical Value of Windows
Here are a few tips on how to understand the numerical components for Windows:
U-Factor/U-Value: ranges from .20-1.20. The lower the number, the more efficient a window is at retaining heat.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: ranges from 0-1. The lower the number, the more efficient a window is to deter heat from the sun. Visible Transmittance: ranges from 0-1 and allows you to understand the amount of visible light that is let in. The higher the number, the more increase in light. Understand and memorize these values to select windows that will best fit your home and needs.
About Lake Washington Windows & Doors
We’re Seattle replacement window specialists with an eye for design and attention to quality. Lake Washington Windows & Doors is a licensed general contractor specializing in replacement window products. Our service area extends throughout Greater Seattle, including Bellevue, Issaquah, Kent, Renton, Woodinville, and more. The professional team at Lake Washington Windows & Doors has more than 100 combined years of window and door experience, so you can rest assured that we can recommend the best solution for your home and budget. Call or contact us online today to schedule a free in-home consultation!
