If you are interested in improving the appearance and value of your home, replacement windows are a wonderful option as they are inexpensive, easy to install, and provide a quick change to the structure.
If your existing frames are not in need of being replaced, you may choose from replacement windows due to the fact that they are designed to go through an existing frame with specially-designed fasteners that are designed to go through the current window assembly.
Before deciding on the windows, you should consider today’s vast line of features to ensure that you choose the right types for your home.
General Window Information
Replacement windows are broken down into two main categories; that is, “operable”, which means that they open or “fixed”, which means the window doesn’t open. All windows contain a minimum of one sash. That is glass and the associated framework.
Each window has a minimum of one pane, which is a single glass piece. Many windows may undergo glazing. This may be done to the window directly or it may be used to identify the securing of the glass directly into the frame. The frame consists of several components. These include the jamb, side jamb, the head, and the sill. Now that you are familiar with the basics, let’s move on to the features.
Replacement Window Features
The following outlines window features that you should consider when purchasing replacement windows:
- Condensation Protection – There are replacement windows that include two glass layers or three glass layers. Argon gas is placed in-between the layers of glass to act as a type of insulator. In some cases, an additional substance called “desiccant” may be added in with the argon gas. Either way, these windows offer a higher level of protection from condensation.
- Low-Emissivity (Low-E) – Windows that have Low-E are those that include a special coating on the glass. This coating allows light to enter, but blocks outdoor heat. This also helps to reduce the amount of ultraviolet light that makes its way into your home.
- U-Value – The replacement windows available on the market today have what is referred to as a “u-value”. This refers to the rate which heat is allowed to flow between the window and the frame. It also outlines just how energy efficient the window is, as a whole. You should choose those that have a low u-value because it means that the product provides a higher level of insulation.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient – This is also identified as “SHCG”. It outlines how much of the outdoor solar energy is capable of passing through the window. The higher the number, the larger amount of solar energy that passes through. In the Northern states, it is best to go for a higher number because of the severe winters. In the Southern states, it is best to go for a lower number so that the heat from severe summers is blocked and cooling costs may be reduced.
- Tempered Glass – When shopping for replacement windows, you should look for those that have tempered glass. This is a safety glaze that prevents the glass from shattering when breakage occurs; instead, it crumbles.
Contact Us Today
If you are in search of replacement windows for your home, contact us today at 316 Direct Wholesale. We offer an extensive line of products that include various features. In addition to this, we also specialize in pivot doors, bifold doors, custom iron doors, and custom iron replacement windows. You choose the style; we do the measurements and installation – simple! Contact us today for more information: 316-201-9438