17 October 2009

Shopping For Replacement Windows

By Martin Troughton

Replacement windows are windows installed to replace existing window in a house. The most common replacement windows are constructed of wood, aluminium, steel, fibreglass or extruded vinyl. Vinyl is the most popular type of replacement windows on the market. They can be single-hung, double-hung, sliding, fixed, casement, or any combination of these.

Windows need replacing when glass is broken or cracked, sash or sills are rotted, and if windows are leaking water or cold air. The windows originally installed in your home might be the kind that requires storms for the winter and screen panels in the summer to keep bugs out. Replacement windows can save a lot of time on upkeep, because they don?t need storms, and come with their own screens installed.

Original windows are installed in the home when it is brand-new. These windows reflect the sizes and styles of at the time, which were popular in the building trades. Over time, these windows can become damaged, leak, or not open and close properly. Replacement windows can be manufactured to fit into the old window opening, can be made of the same or different materials, and can even be a different style than the original windows.

Replacement windows can also be grouped into special frames to transform a large picture window into a bow or bay window. Replacement windows can be small enough for a basement vent window, or large enough to become glass panels in a sunroom. They likewise can be made in special shapes such as octagons, triangles and half-bows to replace custom-crafted architectural window elements.

The best replacement windows are those which have the highest energy-efficiency. Certain materials, such as aluminium and steel tend to draw cold into the home by the materials themselves. Wood is a good insulator, but tends to require upkeep such as painting and caulking. Vinyl replacement windows are by far the most popular, not only because they are less expensive than wood, they are also low maintenance and energy efficient.

There are number of things to consider when shopping for replacement windows. First is appearance. Second is the materials the sash and rails are made of. Third is the insulating stripping used on the window to stop leaks and drafts where moving parts come together. Fourth is the kind of glass used, and how many panes provide insulation. Gas-filled glass increases thermal efficiency, and coated glass reduces sun fading. Finally, price sets the standard in most cases, because price determines the other options you can afford.

Prices for replacement windows reflect many things including: The materials the window is made of and the number of panes of glass used, the materials to install and weatherproof the window, the size of the window, and grids or upgraded hardware. Special coatings or gasses for greater thermal efficiency, and the labour to remove and install the replacement windows all contribute to the price.

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