Tips For Installing the Best Window & Glass Replacements

Thinking about installing windows as part of a remodeling or construction project or does some broken glass need replacement? Superior Replacement Windows has installed windows and worked with glass for years and have compiled tips and tricks to help people who want to save some money and take on a window or glass project. Windows may not seem like such a big deal when you are buying a home, however, they are an integral part of what makes a home valuable. When you are considering an upgrade of the windows or glass, there are a number of features now available you should be aware of. Here are some of the latest window technologies available that won’t break the bank and are readily available at window suppliers in Surprise, Arizona.

New Glass Technology Improves Performance

Glazier Installing New Double Pane Glass

When buying sunglasses, you may have heard the phrase, “it’s all about the glass”. The same is true with windows. While there are some differences between frame styles, materials and hardware, glass technology governs the energy performance of the window envelope. If you buy new windows, the latest glass technology is usually included. However, when retrofitting a window with replacement glass, you typically have a choice of glass type, color and coatings. Glass technology includes the window seals, glass and low-e coatings. Most homeowners don’t realize the glass in their windows can be upgraded without removing the frames from the house walls. By replacing just the glass, thousands of dollars can be saved while still gaining thermal performance and UV filtering.

Low-e coatings on the interior of the glass makes the biggest impact on UV filtering and reflecting heat away from the interior. Glass manufacturers have different names for their glass coatings and the highest level of protection from one manufacturer may not be the same for another. Asking your window glass supplier for specifications on the various coatings they offer is the easiest way to ensure the glass has the highest performance coating available.

Trendy Window Types to Consider

First off, double hung windows are very popular. The have two sashes that can slide vertically up and down the frame. They can also be opened wide from either the top or the bottom; however, they remain inside the frame, not protruding to the exterior or interior of the house.

Sliding glass door windows are also a great choice for modern homes. They glide along a track, letting you slide them horizontally over the other side. They are regularly used in contemporary styled houses. On the other hand, stationary windows can be found as well. They do not open but are extremely customizable; you can choose any angle or shape you want. You can use a combination of both sliding glass doors and stationary windows to create an interesting effect.

Another style you will find at your window supplier is casement windows. They work on hinges, letting you operate them using a crank on an operating mechanism. You can hinge them on the left or the right, opening them outward. They look great in modern-style houses.

Awning windows are also a great choice. They are hinged at the top, opening outward to let fresh air in to the house through either the left or right and the bottom. You can use them in conjunction with stationary windows to create a contrasting effect. Having said that, they work best with picture windows: it is a large stationary window that is designed to let in the most amount of light and views of the outside. They are best placed in the living room.

Finally, if you are looking to maximize space inside your home, it is a good idea to look in to bay or bow windows. They protrude out from the exterior of your house’s side. These windows are used in conjunction with double-hung windows or casements, making for a nice space-saving technique for your new home.

What to Consider Before Buying Windows

There is a lot to consider before buying windows for your home. Of course, you might think it is as easy as picking a window style, but there is more to it.

For example, you have to decide on the frame styles and colors for your windows. They have to complement the style of your new home. Otherwise, they will look odd and out of place in a nice, fashionable house.

Material is another very important thing to consider. Most common materials for windows include vinyl, wood, and aluminum. Your choice is dependent on a number of factors, such as design of your house, reliability, energy efficiency, and more. If you need energy efficient windows, you should definitely go for vinyl, which will help keep energy bills down due to its ability to stand up to the elements.

Warranty is also something you should consider. Make sure you read and understand the manufacturer’s specific maintenance requirements. If you stray from them, they may not honor the warranty. If you do, however, then your windows will look and perform beautifully for years to come.

The Window Installation Process

You might be building a new home or may want to retrofit your windows in the one you have. Here are some things you should look at before proceeding.

If you are remodeling (or retrofitting), the glass of your window is cut out of the frame, and everything around the window remains as it is. Your new window is then screwed into the existing frame.

This is good for those living in older or historical homes. It helps you keep your existing trims, blinds, and shutters. On top of that, you save a lot of money on installation.

A new window installation, on the other hand, involves removing the complete frame, casing, existing brick mold, and trim. The entire thing is cut out and cleaned entirely. A new window frame is then put in, leveled, and screwed into place. They bring about enormous change in your home and cost more money.

Don’t Want To Do-it-Yourself?

The area of Surprise, AZ has a mix of retirees and working class homeowners. Not everyone is up for the challenge of retrofitting their windows with glass or tearing out existing windows to replace them with new ones. Having the right tools makes the job easier but the upfront investment can be a turn-off to some thinking about the idea. Professional window installation companies like Greeley Window Company are a wise choice when time or expertise is important. Hiring a window replacement contractor can also save you money in the long run, especially if there are warranty issues with the windows. Most reputable replacement window manufacturers stand behind their products and services and will warranty the windows for a lifetime as long you own the home. Manufacturers like Milgard are now offering warranties that will transfer to one additional owner of the home in the event the house is sold.