Questions You Should Always Ask When Buying A Window

Regardless of what windows and doors manufacturer you are looking for, there are always things to consider before buying. The following questions will help you determine if your new window is right for your home.

What terminology do I need to know to talk about windows?

Double glazing or double-glazed: This refers to two pieces of glass placed opposite each other on top of each other, sandwiching air between them. This type of glass is more effective at preventing heat loss than single glazing because it has two layers to stop outside air from entering the house through the gaps between these panes.

Low-emissivity (Low-E) coated glass: This type of glazing has a coating on its surface which makes it resistant to heat loss. It also reduces glare when light passes through it as well as absorbing some ultraviolet radiation that could otherwise cause fading and discoloration over time.

Casement: Casement windows are the most common type of window found in homes and commercial buildings. They are rectangular in shape and have folding frames that allow them to open, like a door. They can be made of glass, wood, or metal. Casements are typically smaller than most other types of windows but have some advantages over other types such as better ventilation and more privacy features (such as shutters).

Awning: An awning is attached to the top of the window and extends all the way across the width of it. It can be made of fabric or wood and can be decorative or functional.

Double-hung: Double-hung windows are similar to single-hung windows except that there are two sets of hinges on each side so they can open up wider than single-hung windows without having to lift them up and over the frame itself. They tend to be less expensive than single hung but still offer significant advantages over standard single hung.

What are my options when it comes to window glass?

There are some factors to consider before you go with any particular windows and doors manufacturer.

The number one consideration is safety. Do you want your windows to be shatter-resistant? This glass is designed to withstand high impact forces, such as from a falling baseball, so it's best suited to areas where children or pets might be around.

Another factor is energy efficiency. Glass that has been heat-strengthened is less brittle than ordinary glass and can sustain higher temperatures without breaking. This type of window can be used in both hot and cold climates because it won't melt or break under extreme weather conditions.

You also need to consider the look of your window glass. If you want a custom appearance, such as textured or mirrored surfaces, you'll have to choose between two types: heat-strengthened and tempered. Heat-strengthened glass isn't as durable as tempered on its own; you'll need to add another layer of protection like acrylic or spandex fabric wrap around your window frame to make it safe for use outdoors.

How are windows rated for energy efficiency?

A window's rating is determined by its size, the type of glass it has and how the glass is made. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) has developed a test for measuring the efficiency of windows in terms of U-factor (the measure of heat flow through a window) and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). The NFRC's tests are used by building codes in many countries, including Canada.

A window's U-factor rating ranges from 0.2 to 0.8, while its solar heat gain coefficient ranges from 0.0 to 1.0. A lower U-factor means more heat can pass through the window pane; a higher SHGC means more light will pass through the glass during daylight hours, lessening your home's energy costs by up to 25 percent (depending on your region).

What material should I choose for my windows?

The first choice you should make is whether you want to consider a wooden frame or a metal frame. If you are looking for a more traditional look, then a wooden frame will be the best option for you. However, if you are looking for something that has a modern look, then a metal frame will be the perfect choice.

Wooden frames are very common and they can be found in many different styles and colors. These frames can be made out of wood or composite materials such as fiberglass or aluminum. They also come in many different sizes and shapes, so there really isn't any limit to what kind of design you can have on your window frames.

Metal frames are becoming more popular as well because they offer a lot of benefits over wooden ones. For example, these frames are very strong and durable and they don't require painting or staining which means that they can last a long time without needing to be replaced again in the future. These types of windows also tend to be cheaper than wooden ones because they don't need to be painted either, which makes them even more affordable overall.

The best window materials for residential homes are wood, with aluminum cladding.

Wood is a good option if you want a traditional look in your windows, but don't want to spend a lot of money on them. You can get wooden windows that have different profiles and styles, so they fit into any home style.

Another advantage of wooden windows is that they're more energy efficient than other types of windows because they insulate better, which means less heat loss through the glass during cold weather and cooler air inside during summertime.

If you want to make your energy costs go down even more, consider adding insulation between the inside walls of your house and any exterior walls that face the sun all day long (windows included). Insulation will keep heat from escaping through those areas, which can help reduce heating bills by up to 50 percent!