Windows improve a house’s aesthetic, increase its value and save energy bills. Look for a local installer that offers ample product ranges, affordable quotes and strong warranty provisions. The company should also have local references and reviews.
Outdated windows can lead to high energy bills and a chilly home. New replacement windows are long-lasting, low-maintenance and insulated. They can even reduce energy costs and deflect heat during Bartow’s hot summers.
Frame material
There are a number of factors to consider when choosing the right frames for your window replacement project. They include affordability, insulation and aesthetics. Vinyl is a time-tested and affordable option that provides good insulating properties. It also resists humidity and doesn’t require regular painting or staining. Wood offers a classic look but requires regular upkeep to keep moisture and termite at bay. Composite frames are an eco-conscious choice that combines stability with the look of wood without its maintenance needs.
Hurricane windows provide additional protection for your home, while double-hung windows allow for improved airflow and easy cleaning. You can also opt for casement windows, which hinge at the side and open outward. Energy-efficient windows keep the cool in and the heat out, lowering your energy bills and qualifying you for tax credits. Talk to a professional home window installation company to find out more about the options that best suit your budget, energy efficiency requirements and architectural style.
Glass
A window company with local experience is better equipped to understand your region’s weather conditions and architectural styles. It will also offer a more complete selection of options that increase energy efficiency. For example, windows with double or triple glazing and argon or krypton gas between the glass reduce thermal transfer and improve insulation.
The best-performing replacement windows have a low U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient, which help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. These factors are listed on a window’s NFRC label, which should be printed with a black arch framing a sun shape. CR’s guide to making sense of the NFRC label explains what these numbers mean.
The simplest type of replacement window is called a “sash pack,” which consists of new upper and lower sashes that fit inside the old frame. A more expensive option is a new-construction window, which requires the removal of the existing frame and sill. Custom-ordered replacement windows can take 6 to 12 weeks, but more basic styles are often available in a few weeks.
Insulation
Whether you have out-dated windows that lack insulation, high energy bills, or sagging window frames that let in drafts, the right new windows can boost your home’s beauty and comfort. They also help keep temperatures low and protect interior upholstery and skin from harmful UV rays.
Choose a company with a reputation for exceptional service and transparent pricing. They should provide a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in window tinting and installation, and offer multiple film options tailored to your specific needs.
Look for energy-efficient models that have a low U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SGHC). Options with double or triple glazing further reduce thermal transfer, while argon or krypton fills between insulated panes provides improved insulation. Options like double-hung windows also allow for ventilation and complement many architectural styles. If hurricane safety is a priority, opt for impact-rated windows that resist high winds and debris. These can stand up to Florida’s wild weather and withstand the elements.
Installation
Upgrading your windows helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs. A professional new window installation can also boost your home’s curb appeal and resale value.
Choosing an experienced installer is crucial to a successful project. Look for a company with ample product ranges, strong warranty provisions and local references. It should also have a record of working with historic buildings and complies with local building codes.
The best installers will offer energy-efficient products that meet or exceed Energy Star standards. Look for options with low-E coatings, double or triple glazing and argon or krypton in between panes to reduce thermal transfer.
They’ll also provide specialized features like between-the-glass blinds, unique grille patterns and soundproofing. They’ll measure openings accurately to ensure a tight fit and optimal energy efficiency. They’ll offer full-frame and pocket replacement methods, as well as repairs to existing frames. These are appropriate when the old window sashes and frames are still in good condition.