When it’s time for a window replacement in your home, careful planning is needed to ensure you’re getting what’s right for your property. There are a few decisions to make before settling on building materials for your new windows. Here are four factors to guide you in your decision-making process. 

What to Consider When Replacing Windows

1. Frame Choices

Window frames are available in a variety of materials such as vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass, and wood. Each comes with pros and cons, and selecting the style should be based on your personal requirements and aesthetics.

Vinyl, for example, is very low-maintenance and cost-effective but can’t be painted to match other elements. Wood is still a top choice due to its beauty, but it requires more upkeep to stop damage, rot, and other issues.

2. Single- or Dual-Glazed

Glazing refers to the number of glass panes present. Single-glazed windows don’t provide elite insulation, but if they break, replacing one pane is simple and inexpensive. Dual-glazed options offer great insulation, featuring two panes of glass that have a layer of trapped air in between them. Replacements are pricier, but the energy efficiency they provide is usually well worth the expense.

3. Energy Considerations

Whenever upgrading any building materials, energy efficiency should always be considered. You want to ensure windows have an Energy Star® label to control heat gain into your home. The solar heat gain coefficient determines how well the glass blocks the heat—the lower the number, the better it is. Some windows also have a special coating that boosts efficiency.

4. Safety

If you have small children or pets, double-hung windows are the safer choice. These feature a top sash that goes up and down so that you can open windows without worrying about security. You may also consider tempered glass, especially if windows are set low to the ground. This option makes it harder to break, which means fewer accidents and more protection against break-ins.

As you plan window replacement, trust the home improvement supply professionals at Huber Lumber. From doors and windows to siding materials and lumber, the locally owned and operated location brings more than 110 years of combined experience to every homeowner, designer, contractor, and DIYer in the Cincinnati, OH, area. Their friendly team can help you find the right components for your project and will even help you with computer-aided designs to finalize your concept. Call (513) 731-4035 to speak with a representative or visit them online for a look at their products.