The type of windows you choose can have a huge impact on your home’s aesthetic, energy efficiency, and functionality. Window experts can help you narrow down your options based on your needs and preferences.
JELD-WEN has windows with low-emissivity coatings and argon gas insulation, which can help you save on utility costs. They also come with a wide range of decorative and performance options.
Aluminum
Aluminum windows offer a combination of affordability and durability. They are less expensive than wood windows and roughly on par with vinyl. They also have a long lifespan and require little maintenance. They do not rust, warp or require repainting.
These windows are made with two or three panes of glass and insulated frames to reduce energy consumption and improve home comfort. They can be fitted with argon gas between the panes for extra insulation and are available in different color options to match your home’s décor.
Energy efficient windows are a smart investment that will lower your electricity bills and increase home value. But the right choice for your house depends on several factors, including climate and architectural style.
Wood
The type of windows you choose can have a huge impact on your home’s look, comfort and energy efficiency. The right window can also increase its resale value. Window experts can help you narrow down your options based on your needs and preferences.
Wood is a beautiful and classic material. It can be shaped and carved to fit any space. However, it does require some maintenance to deal with moisture and insects.
Fiberglass is a great option for those who want the aesthetic of wood but need a low-maintenance option. Its durability means that it can withstand the elements and save you money on your energy bills.
Steel
Custom windows add value to your home and can help protect it from severe weather conditions. The right window type can also reduce your energy costs and increase comfort. You can choose from different types of windows, including aluminum and fiberglass. Some offer sleek, modern looks that complement many architectural styles. Others offer a more traditional style. You can even opt for clad windows, which combine the beauty of wood on the inside and durability of another material on the outside.
When choosing luxury steel windows, be sure to look for a company that offers a warranty on both the product and installation. This will ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.
Tempered glass
Tempered glass is a form of safety glass that has been heated and cooled to create an increased degree of strength. It is typically used in areas where safety is a concern, such as shower doors and tabletops, car side and rear windows, and office partitions.
It is up to four times stronger than traditional annealed glass and breaks into small, blunt fragments instead of sharp jagged shards upon impact. This significantly reduces the risk of injury.
However, it is important to note that the edges of tempered glass are vulnerable to chipping. This can pose a cutting hazard and should be carefully handled and inspected regularly for damage.
Energy-efficient
Many homeowners choose energy-efficient windows to lower their home’s energy costs, reduce their carbon footprint and improve comfortability. These windows have lower U-factors, solar heat gain coefficients (SHGC), visible transmittance, air leakage and condensation resistance ratings.
Other features that increase efficiency include a warm-edge spacer system, low-E coating and argon gas filling. The spacers seal in escaping heat, while the coating blocks ultraviolet rays that fade fabrics and furnishings. These improvements add up to a 5% savings on heating and cooling costs. You can also choose windows with ENERGY STAR Most Efficient ratings for additional savings.
Decorative
Decorative windows offer homeowners the opportunity to express their personal taste and creativity. They feature attractive designs made from clear beveled glass accented with caming in a variety of colors. The caming enhances the natural character of small imperfections in the glass, such as textural waves, striations, and random air bubbles.
Adding decorative window film to your windows is an easy and inexpensive way to transform their appearance. This adhesive-backed material can be applied to any glass surface and is available in a variety of patterns, designs, and colors. Some even provide varying degrees of privacy.
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are a great option for Louisiana homeowners who want to save energy, refresh their home’s aesthetics, and increase its value. They are made from PVC, a robust plastic that resists heat and moisture. Additionally, their ENERGY STAR certification helps reduce energy bills.
Unlike other plastics, which rely on non-renewable fossil fuels, PVC is based mostly on chlorine. It also has inherent flame retardant properties. Moreover, 57% of the material is composed of common salt, which requires less natural resources and releases fewer environmental pollutants than other plastics.