Things You Should Know When Replacing Your Windows

Time to replace your windows? There are four major types made out of Aluminum

, Vinyl, Fiberglass, of Wood. Each has a different characteristic and their own pros and cons.

Aluminum is a strong metal and very durable. Because it is so durable, it allows aluminum windows to be constructed with the thinnest profile and offer the largest views. They are generally the cheaper of window types but often the most durable. However, aluminum can conduct heat and radiate that heat the the inside of your home. This can cause your home to heat up during hot months and cause you higher electric bills.

Vinyl windows are popular because they are usually your best value. They are strong and widely available in numerous styles and shapes. Vinyl looks similar to wood but but is less expensive. They can easily be touched up with paint as well.

Fiberglass windows combine durability and aesthetics. Like vinyl windows, fiberglass windows resemble the look of wood windows but without the glossy finish of vinyl.

Wood Windows are the most popular and sought after window types for homeowners. They typically come in a variety of shapes and their aesthetics often contain the popular look of grills. However, they require more maintenance than the other types and are not appropriate in all climates. However, wood windows makes a bigger statement than the other type of windows.

There are also some key terms you should know when looking to replace your windows:

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)

The SHGC measures how much solar heat is admitted/ transmitted through a window. SHGC is measured on a scale between 0 and 1. The lower a window's solar heat gain coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits. This is the most important factor when choosing a window in a desert climate like Phoenix. When looking for a window you want to choose one with a SHGC less than or equal to 0.30

Low-E Coating

Low-emittance (low-E) coatings are microscopically thin, virtually invisible, metal or metallic oxide layers deposited on a window or skylight glazing surface primarily to reduce the U-factor by suppressing radiative heat flow. These coatings reflect radiant infrared energy, thus tending to keep radiant heat on the same side of the glass from which it originated. This often results in more efficient windows because: radiant heat originating from indoors is reflected back inside, thus keeping heat inside in the winter, and infrared radiation from the sun is reflected away, keeping it cooler inside in the summer. In our desert climate in order to keep the sun's heat out of the house the Low-E coating should be applied to the outside pane of glass.

by: Pankow Construction

POST COMMENT

Preparing Food Products For Shipping Online Estate Agents - How Private Landlords Should Maximise Their Property Exposure Achieve Your Career Goals With A Master In Nursing Degree Strip Club - How To Choose One That's Classy Hair Transplant Latest Knowledge Strip Clubs - Plan A Bachelor Party He Won't Forget Several Ideas About Ovarian Treatments For Every Women Smsf Set-up: What You Need To Understand Continuing Educational Requirements In Texas For Teachers Professional Letting Agents Stowmarket Real Estate Investors Buy Homes For Cash How To Find The Best Business Litigation Attorney In Irvine How To Find Good Strip Clubs When You Are On The Road