A window replacement is an opportunity to make your space better in all areas. From curb appeal to energy efficiency, security to sustainability, choosing the right windows renders your home as livable as possible.
To make sound choices in window replacement, Renewal by Andersen® of Spokane shares the best tips you need to know:
Consider Your Climate Zone
Contrary to popular belief, not all energy-efficient units are necessarily appropriate for all climates. This is why the products designed for Hidalgo County, New Mexico wouldn’t work as effectively when used in Honolulu County, Hawaii. Unless ENERGY STAR® deems the windows suitable in all 50 states, make sure your chosen units are certified in your region.
Check the ENERGY STAR label, and ensure your area is shaded in its map. Furthermore, find the right combination of U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) ratings by the NFRC. Since Spokane County is located in the Northern Climate Zone, your windows must have a U-factor of 0.28 and an SHGC of 0.32 or more. The highest U-factor allowed is 0.30, which should be paired with an SHGC of 0.42 or more. On the other hand, if you choose products with a U-factor of 0.27 or less, their SHGC could be of any value.
Think about Your Home’s Architecture
Design-savvy window contractors would advise you to pay attention to your home’s style. Most architectures have their own quintessential glass units. This is why double-hung windows with crisscross grilles are emblematic of traditional homes, while large, plain units are iconic symbols of modern styles. Mismatching windows and front façades could ruin curb appeal, which is why you must understand the history of your home before making a decision.
Mind Indoor Air Quality
Considering most building materials pollute your indoor air for years through off-gassing, it pays to invest in responsibly manufactured units. Unlike other windows, only Andersen and Renewal by Andersen products have passed the strictest indoor air emission standards in America.
Moreover, consider casement, double-hung, and sliding windows to boost your home’s natural ventilation. These three promote the most air circulation, making your rooms healthier.
Put a Premium on Maintenance
Much like door replacement, don’t forget about maintenance. Keeping your windows in good shape shouldn’t be problematic. Unfortunately, some materials are easily susceptible to damage due to long-term exposure to the elements. Although wood and vinyl are the most popular choices, they could easily develop structural problems over time. The former requires periodic painting to prevent moisture damage, while the latter cracks and bows with extreme temperature changes.
One of the few materials on the market immune to almost any detriment is our very own Fibrex®. A patented, wood-polymer composite, our exclusive material expands and contracts very little to stay intact for years with no painting required.
Many more things go into the decision-making of a successful window replacement. Let Renewal by Andersen of Spokane help you tick the right boxes to help you install the right units on a room-by-room basis. Call us today at 509-410-4288 to schedule your FREE, in-home consultation in Spokane, WA, at your most convenient date and time.