What’s that blonde joke? “I didn’t pay the bill because the salesman said the windows would pay for themselves in a few years!” In the home-building business, I have heard many stories and outrageous claims and know many people who have been misunderstood.
But rather than sending money to the manufacturer, good windows can save you enough money to figuratively “pay for yourself” over time.
Question: What are you looking for in quality window work for your home?
answer:
As energy consumption and cost become more and more important, the need for affordable quality windows is growing in direct proportion. Windows bring in the outdoors by adding beauty, light, and views, making your home more livable and comfortable.
A variety of styles and price points
Windows come in as many price points as styles. And quality is usually reflected in the price. You can get wooden windows, metal, plastic, and combinations of these. Crank-opening windows with side hinges like doors (casement windows), windows that slide up and down (double hooks), and sliders (windows that slide left and right). Anything to match the beauty and style of your home.
How do you check the quality?
Windows can cause energy drains, wasting energy and money. And if your home is well insulated, that means it makes sense to use the highest quality, most efficient windows you can afford.
Here are the main things to look for and ask.
- double or triple glazing
- argon gas filling
- ½ to 5/8 inch space between panes
Smaller window sizes are usually more efficient than larger ones.
A small number of windows is more efficient for your home than too many.
The Low-E glass reflects UV rays and heat and saves energy.
Whether it’s for a new construction project or a window replacement job, effective window shopping is one of the most important things you can do.
Quality should extend to walls and ceilings.
As already mentioned, it doesn’t make sense to have large, energy-efficient windows when heat and cold are transmitted through walls and ceilings. If you want to upgrade your walls (and ceiling) or windows, you’ll need to improve the other ones as well.
Studying the quality of your windows and using proper insulation in your home will greatly reduce your energy use.