If you’re considering how to improve the quality of your house, installing new replacement windows may not be the first thing that comes to mind. In fact, when many people think of “home improvement”, they evoke images of stylish upgrades such as new stone countertops, swanky lighting, and luxurious finishes. However, the most beneficial enhancements are purely functional, though new windows can improve the look of a home as well.
Whether you’re in dire need of new windows or you’re simply looking for a cost-effective, responsible way to spend some of your home improvement budget, there are a few things you should keep in mind during the planning process. These are our top 4 considerations for homeowners considering a window installation project with Siding & Windows Group.
1. Are You Paying High Energy Bills or Losing Heating and Cooling?
If you’re paying sky-high energy bills, losing valuable heat in winter, or wasting precious cooled air in the summer, energy-efficient windows should be your top priority. Double glazed windows are a great choice, as they also work to prevent condensation buildup and help soundproof the home. In addition, they keep the home cooler in summer months and toastier through the winter – both of which are essential in Chicago.
If that’s not enough to convince you, consider this: more than half of home heating can be lost through single glazed windows. If you have an older, more established home, investing double glazed windows will not only improve your comfort in all seasons, it’ll save you money.
2. Will Placement Impact Temperature or Lifestyle?
If you’re installing new windows or skylights in places where there weren’t previously any, make sure you consider how the new windows will impact your home’s temperature. For example, if your home faces west and you install a beautiful new bay window or a band of clerestory windows up high, the extra sunlight could make your house significantly hotter.
If you have air conditioning this may not seem like a big deal, but you don’t want to have to cool the house more or for longer just because you added a new window. Plan to place windows strategically to avoid light glare over workspaces or entertainment stations and also to avoid unnecessary heat.
Need help choosing the right windows for your Chicago area home?
3. Do You Like the Current Style?
If you don’t know a lot about windows, it may come as a surprise to you when you find out just how many styles there are. Window options go far beyond simple shapes, drawing on a vast repository of architectural styles from many places and periods in time. Window installation professionals at the Siding Group can provide you with details on our style options and help you select the perfect one for your home.
4. What Framing Material Will You Choose?
Aside from the array of window shape options, there is also a wealth of frame materials to select from. We offer beautiful fiberglass, wood, and vinyl frames to suit a variety of classic and contemporary looks.
For your next window installation project, make sure you work only with the best. If you’re a Chicago area homeowner, connect with the Siding Group to arrange a free window consultation.