Windows are critical features in houses. They allow natural light in the house, allow warmth in, and also provide ventilation.
Windows play a vital role in making a home energy efficient. For instance, insulated windows can help maintain comfortable temperatures during both hot and cold seasons. Depending on the placement of windows, they can help capture the nature outside, bringing about relaxation and calmness. They also serve an esthetic purpose. Stylish windows can make a home more beautiful, and the light they allow on can make a space airy.
There are different types of windows, designed for varied placements in homes. Windows serve different yet critical purposes in homes, and you need to be objective while choosing your windows. Here is what you need to consider when selecting windows for your home.
1. Identify the area where to install such windows
In order to choose the right windows, you should think about their placement. If a room is located where it gets a lot of direct sunlight, you might want to consider windows made of toned glass. Opaque or frosted glass windows are best suited for rooms that need privacy. Choose single or double-paned windows, depending on your insulation needs.
Considering the placement while choosing your windows will go a long way in helping you get proper ventilation, insulation, lighting, and privacy.
2. Know your budget
Your budget must be put into consideration when choosing a window. If you are doing a house renovation, you have a budget for the different areas you will be touching up. Remember that the windows come with various features, sizes, quality, and so on. This creates a variance in prices.
Regardless of the type of windows you want to buy, you should be careful not to go way above your budget, as this will interfere with your entire project. At the same time, this does not mean that you should go for the cheapest options available.
The budget is designed to help you get value for your money.
3. Types of windows
As earlier mentioned, there are different types of windows, and you are required to choose ones that best suit your needs. The various windows have different ventilation capabilities, allow varying amounts of natural light, and have different aesthetic appeals. Your choice will depend on the needs of your home. Evaluate the various features of the windows before making your selection.
Choose the type & style of window
Double-hung windows are ideal if you are looking for extra ventilation in your home. They have a top and bottom sash that allows you to close and open the window both at the top and at the bottom.
Casement windows are considered energy efficiency since they are not flexible. They also provide adequate ventilation as they can be opened completely. Awnings windows are favorable if you live in wet areas as they can provide ventilation and protection from the rain at the same time. Their design prevents the sun from shining through your home, creating a cool atmosphere saving your air conditioning costs.
A picture window does not open up, making it suitable for rooms where you can get an unobstructed view of nature. Transom windows are installed high above the floor level, and they can be open in case of the need for ventilation. With these windows, there is no need to install an air conditioning unit.
Slider windows are opened by sliding the sash. They are low maintenance, easy to maintain, and provide adequate ventilation. Stationary windows cannot be open, and they are best placed in rooms where you can capture a magnificent view of the outside.
If you want to increase the space in your home, bay or bow windows would be perfect. These window types are loved for their ability to make a room spacious, and the fact that they allow in more natural light than most of the other types.
Choose Window Pane Options: Single or Double Pane Windows
Single pane windows are made of a single layer of glass. Double pane windows, on the other hand, are made of two layers of glass. While similar materials are used for the two different types of windows and can come in the same styles, their efficiency varies. Double-paned windows are more efficient in keeping temperatures regulated and keeping out noise. Your choice of single or double pane windows will depend on your insulation and noise control needs.
Choose the right type of glass
Different types of glass are used to make windows. Annealed glass is the regular glass that has not been treated. Annealed glass can break into large shingles, which can cause injuries. This glass type does not provide much insulation.
Tempered glass undergoes a treatment that makes it four times stronger than the annealed glass. It breaks into pebble-like particles, which makes it a safety glass. Insulated glass is made of two or more panes where an inert gas is filled between the panes or a vacuum is left, reducing heat transfer from outside a building.
Laminated glass is tempered glass treated with a plastic interlayer, and holds together even when shattered. It is an entirely safe glass as it does not shatter into harmful fragments.
Bullet-resistant glass is resistant to penetration by projectiles. This makes it ideal for windows in high security and public buildings. Hurricane glass is impact resistant, and it is treated with a polymer layer. The thickness of the polymer layer will determine the level of impact-resistance the glass will have.
Choose the top company for quality glass
The quality of glass you choose will determine the efficiency and strength of your windows. Source your glass from reliable manufacturers such as Fab Glass & Mirror for the best quality and functionality.
Understanding your home's insulation, ventilation, and lighting needs will help you choose the right mirror. You have a wide range of options with different features and functionalities to choose from. The information above will help you make your selection.
