What Type Of Windows Are Best?

You can find windows designated for new construction and replacement. A window for new construction has a nailing fin — a rim that allows you to secure it in the rough opening of a wall. A replacement window doesn’t have a nailing fin. It’s secured in an existing window frame with fasteners that run through the window assembly, making it easier to install. When updating existing windows, you typically use replacement windows unless the existing frame around the opening needs replacing. Before buying replacement windows, make sure you have good measurements of the existing rough openings.

Windows are either operable (can open) or fixed (cannot be opened). There is at least one sash – a sheet of glass and a framework of vertical stiles and horizontal rails – in a window. A pane is a single sheet of glass framed in a window. Glazing can refer to either the glass in a window or the process of securing the glass into the framework. The window frame consists of the head, jamb, side jamb, and sill.

Single-Hung or Double-Hung Vinyl Window

1. Head jamb
2. Grilles between the glass (GBG)
3. Glazing/glass
4. Sash
5. Side jamb
6. Stile
7. Rail
8. Sill

Each type of window has specific features and characteristics. In addition to appearance (from inside and outside), consider their function, whether or not you want to open them and the amount of light they let in. Also, think about how you’ll keep them clean and maintained.

There are other common window types often designated for new construction.

Projection windows extend out from the house. A bow window is an assembly of three or more individual units positioned at slight angles — 10 degrees, for example — giving the appearance of a gentle outward arc. Bay windows are similar but fit together at greater angles — 30 or 45 degrees, for example — and project further from the house.

Picture windows are fixed models designed to offer wide, unobstructed views and provide lots of light.

Casement windows are hinged on one end and pivot out for ventilation at the other end. They’re easy to open and provide good airflow.

Awning windows have a top-hinged sash that tilts out from the bottom. The design of an awning window helps keep the rain out when the window is open.

Skylights mount in the ceiling and may be fixed or operable. During the day, they function like overhead light fixtures. Larger, traditional skylights need a direct connection between the ceiling and roof for installation. Smaller tubular skylights include a reflective tube that channels natural light through an attic space and to a diffuser in the ceiling, illuminating small spaces, such as hallways or bathrooms. Their size allows them to work with any roof support type without cutting and reinforcing joists.

Storm windows reduce the flow of air into the home, providing an economical way to increase the energy efficiency of single-pane windows. The space between the storm window and the existing window acts as added insulation.

The frame material of a window affects factors such as heat transfer, durability, and maintenance.

• Vinyl is a common material for replacement windows. Vinyl windows are made from rigid, impact-resistant polyvinyl chloride (PVC), with hollow chambers inside to help them resist heat transfer and condensation. Vinyl windows don’t require painting or finishing, and the material doesn’t fade or rot.
• Aluminum windows can be an economical option for replacement windows. They’re durable, light and relatively easy to handle. Aluminum windows are corrosion-resistant and require little maintenance.
• Wood is popular, particularly for the interior parts of a window. It’s available on new construction windows. Wood doesn’t conduct as much heat or cold as other materials and doesn’t allow as much condensation. Wood windows often come unfinished, but you can save work by purchasing them pre-primed on the exterior or interior surfaces. You can also buy them pre-painted in a few standard colors.
• Clad-wood windows offer the benefits of wood on the inside but are covered on the exterior with a tough, low-maintenance jacket of aluminum. The cladding makes the exterior durable and prevents rot. Clad-wood windows are available for new construction.

Some windows feature two layers of glass (double-pane) or three layers (triple-plane). Air or argon gas, which has better insulating properties, is sealed between the panes as an insulator. If the unit is properly constructed, condensation shouldn’t occur between the panes, but a drying agent, called a desiccant, may be used between the panes as added protection from condensation.

Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass has a coating that allows light in but blocks much of the heat that contacts it. A Low-E coating can help keep your home cool on a hot day by reducing the exterior heat entering your home. On a cold day, it can keep most of the interior heat from escaping through the glass. Low-E glass also reduces the amount of ultraviolet (UV) light entering the home, helping protect carpets, upholstery, and furniture from fading.

The U-value or U-factor of the window indicates the rate at which heat flows through the window and frame, and measures overall energy efficiency. A lower U-value means the window will insulate better.

Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) is a specification that indicates how much solar energy passes through the window. A higher number means the window allows a higher percentage of solar heat to pass through. If you live in the South, you may want to consider windows with lower SHGC ratings to block heat in the summer and reduce cooling costs. In the North, you may want to look for windows with higher ratings to allow the sun to aid in warming your home.

Windows may be labeled as ENERGY STAR^® certified for specific zones of the country. Take a look at Residential Windows, Doors, and Skylights to learn the benefits of these windows.

Tempered glass is a type of safety glazing. The glass crumbles when broken rather than shattering like standard (annealed) window glass.

The Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of a window indicates how well it reduces noise from outside. A higher number means less sound is transmitted through the window.

The double-strength glass is thicker and resists breakage better than single-strength glass.

Rough opening dimensions indicate the size opening the window will fit. The actual dimensions of the window are slightly smaller than the rough measurements to allow for installation materials.

Grids or grilles are available with some windows to simulate the look of a window made up of multiple, smaller panes of glass. The grid may be mounted on the window surface or encased between panes of glass.

There are many ideas about what formula works best for cleaning windows. A simple mixture of a gallon of water with either a teaspoon of baby shampoo or 1-1/2 cups of vinegar is an effective recipe for general cleaning.

Follow these simple steps to keep your windows clean and streak-free.

• Rinse the window surface from top to bottom with clean water.
• Clean with one of the mixtures listed above and a sponge. Apply uniform pressure horizontally, then vertically.
• Don’t allow solutions to collect or puddle on vinyl surfaces, and quickly rinse, dry and run-down.
• Rinse thoroughly using clean water without allowing any solution to dry on the glass.
• Wipe the window, frame, and sill with a lint-free, dry cloth.