subject: Your New Home: Essential Window-choosing Tips [print this page] Spring is here! And if warmer weather means building a new home, you are definitely in for some major changes in your life. Anyone who's ever built a house from the ground up will tell you that there are hundreds of decisions that need to be made: some are major and some are not. Choosing the type of windows that will grace your new home, however, is one of the most important decisions you'll face. It's wise to be educated and ready when selection time comes: so here are some essential window-choosing tips for your new home.
Talk to Your Architect or Building Contractor About Windows Early On
The style of home you have chosen will be an important factor in what kind of windows you can have, so make sure to communicate your desires clearly with your architect or building contractor at the earliest planning and design stages. For example, if you have your heart set on having bow or bay windows on your main floor, let it be known right away. Similarly, if you know your children are going to be running in and out to the backyard all summer long, a wall of sliding glass doors would be mighty convenient. Give some serious thought to your lifestyle, how much natural light is important to you, and so forth: then talk over your ideas with the experts.
Do A Little Research Of Your Own
The internet is a wonderful source of information regarding all the different types of windows that are available out there. Some of the most popular kinds include:
--Double-hung
--Casement
--Horizontal slider
--Awning
--Louvered
--Hopper
--Tilt turn
--And more!
Don't discount less-traditional types just because you may not be familiar with them. Some of the newest styles will allow more air into your home while still providing ease of cleaning. Once you find styles you like online, go to your local window supply store and see them in "real life."
Always Go With Energy-Wise Windows
One of the biggest mistakes people who are building a home make is to cut budget corners by installing cheap windows. Although they cost more upfront, windows that meet Energy Star standards will save you substantial sums of money in utilities bill costs over the long run. As long as you are putting in all new windows, why not do it the smart way the first time?
Building a house is an exciting time: being educated and smart about your window decisions will have a huge impact on your quality of life for years to come.
