Windows are a major part of your home’s design and functionality. Depending on your needs, you might need a full-frame window replacement or a retrofit installation. Window styles vary from Hopper windows for basements to Jalousie windows with glass slats that open like blinds.
Aside from shape, the material used is another factor to consider for your custom window project. Choose from wood, aluminum and composite materials for durability and aesthetics.
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are the most popular type of window installed around the world. They are made from a man-made material called PVC and have been in use since the 1970s. They are relatively inexpensive and provide many options for your home’s design.
Standard vinyl frames have a thin profile and hollow frame. They are a good choice for house flippers or people who want low-cost windows that last for a short time. They can also be used in commercial buildings.
Composite vinyl windows have a thicker profile and more durable frame. They are better insulated than standard vinyl and can be manufactured in a variety of colors. They also have the ability to be glazed with low-E glass, which helps keep homes cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Wood
A home’s windows play an important role in the ambiance and function of a space. They allow natural light to shine in, keep the elements out and invite refreshing breezes inside. They are also a key component in a house’s energy efficiency.
Local window installation pros help homeowners choose the right windows for their needs and home styles. They offer a variety of products, including aluminum, fiberglass and wood windows. They also specialize in bay and bow windows, which protrude from the wall to add extra space and flood rooms with light.
Clad-wood windows have a wood interior with an aluminum or vinyl exterior, which is great for those looking for both style and durability. They are also more energy-efficient than traditional wood windows.
Aluminum
Aluminum windows are strong and durable, making them a good option for window replacements in a variety of environments. They also offer a modern aesthetic for homes. In terms of cost, they’re more affordable than vinyl windows. However, they do tend to chip and dent more easily than other materials.
Whether you are building a new home or replacing your existing windows, local window installation experts can help you select the perfect frames for your home. They can even help you choose window designs that are unique to your house. Then, they can install your windows using precise measurements and high-quality materials. Energy-efficient window installation can save you money on your electricity bills and decrease your carbon footprint by up to 12%. These windows are also incredibly durable and easy to maintain.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is an inert, non-corrosive material that resists rot, mold, and water damage. It is a good choice for humid climates, and its stability helps prevent seal failure and glass fogging.
Typically, fiberglass frames are made through a process called pultrusion. This automated process bathes lengths of strand mat and roving in resin before pulling them through a heated die that gives the profile each window part requires. The parts are screwed and glued together, with hidden nylon-reinforced corner blocks to create strong and tight joints.
These casements and a picture window open wide to take in big views, but their narrow frames and sashes don’t warp like wood ones. A factory-applied coating on the fiberglass also protects them from UV rays. Color options are available, and frames can be repainted as needed to refresh the look.
Beveled glass
Beveled glass is a great way to add visual intrigue to a window or door. The angled edges create prism-like shapes, refracting light in alluring patterns. You can find this type of glass in decorative windows, doors, tabletops, and cabinet doors. It also makes a nice addition to ornate leaded windows.
One of the biggest benefits of beveled glass is that it adds privacy to a room. It is a perfect option for those who want to enjoy the sun without giving neighbors or peeping Toms a view into their home.
The best beveled glass is made from high-quality materials and has a solid construction that will stand up to weather damage. It should be a good fit for your home’s decor and be easy to clean.