Purchasing replacement windows for your home is a significant investment as it involves both money and time. Replacing your old and outdated windows with new ones can enhance your home’s appearance and make it more energy-efficient. Keep in mind several essential things to make the most out of your investment and get the best replacement windows for your money.
Ever wondered what factors go into when deciding your next remodelling project? If so, then this is a comprehensive guide for you. New buyers should know the ins and outs of purchasing replacement windows to make an intelligent investment decision. To help you buy the right windows for your home, we have prepared this buying guide to consider several factors when purchasing the best replacement windows for your home.
Deciding to replace your windows can feel like uncharted territory, but fear not – Budget Glass is here to guide you through the signs indicating it’s time for an upgrade. Unlike more familiar home improvements, recognizing the need for new windows comes down to a few crucial indicators.
Replacement windows don’t need any framework; they slip into an existing window frame. They also have fewer parts, which makes installation faster and easier. The value of replacement windows is immediately apparent—they’re generally more affordable than new construction windows. Getting the right replacement windows can make a huge difference in comfort, cost savings, and aesthetics for years to come.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your home’s windows, don’t ignore the benefits of replacement windows. By replacing old windows with energy-efficient models made of high-quality window material, you will enjoy not only better weatherproofing and added security but also lower monthly heating and cooling costs.
The right window comes down to a comfortable living space and value for money. To better understand your options, start our free windows buying guide now!
Our guide can help you find out which styles and materials will work best for your windows. We want to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about what replacement windows are the right fit for your home and lifestyle.
When it comes to replacement windows, this is a meaningful investment that requires you to think about the long-term improvements and how much it will soften your energy costs.
We’ll help you find the perfect things for your windows – and quickly sort through your options for any home. We present the best solutions to your window replacement problems in an easy-to-browse format.
In the dynamic world of replacement windows, energy efficiency takes centre stage, ensuring your home stays comfortable while minimizing energy costs. Understanding the key factors is the first step in making a smart choice.
The Energy Rating, established by the National Fenestration Rating Council, dives into the heart of a window’s energy performance, with a focus on critical elements like weatherstripping and glazing.
The R-value becomes your guide, quantifying a window’s heat-insulating resistance. A higher number signifies not just a window but a shield against the elements.
U-Factor, or U-Value, unveils the mystery of heat transfer through a window, providing a comprehensive understanding of your home’s thermal dynamics.
The SHGC formula measures how effectively a window allows the sun’s heat to infiltrate your space. Choosing lower SHGC values ensures optimal performance.
Understanding heat loss is essential; it’s the delicate dance of energy transfer from the inside to the outside, influenced by conduction, convection, and radiation.
This voluntary partnership among the Canadian Government and the residential window industry is a beacon of energy efficiency. ENERGY STAR-certified windows not only lower energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions but may also come with provincial rebates or tax incentives.
Argon or Krypton gases, nestled between triple-pane windows, redefine efficiency by reducing heat conductivity. Experience substantial energy cost savings with these advanced insulating gases.
Low-E Coatings take centre stage as versatile protectors. In winter, they block heat loss while letting in the sun’s warmth. In summer, they shield against harmful UV rays, embracing natural light and minimizing energy costs.
Combining energy efficiency, privacy, security, and originality makes low-E glazed windows the ideal choice for many homeowners. Windows have single, double, and triple-pane options, depending on the model, the customizations and the window style you want.
Navigating the world of replacement windows can be overwhelming without understanding the essential components. Let’s shed light on the anatomy of window hardware to empower your buying decisions:
It’s a single sheet of glass fitted into a frame, coming in various shapes and sizes. Multiple panes can be combined to create larger window configurations.
The window sill, or windowsill, is the trim at the bottom of the window, providing structural support and draining water away. It also serves as a charming space for house plants.
The movable part of a window, the sash includes the window pane and comes in various configurations, allowing for different styles and functionalities.
A two-part system securing the sash to the sash lock strike, reducing air infiltration, and enhancing security. Compatible with both double-hung and casement windows.
Found in double-hung windows, rails are the two-piece horizontal elements of a window sash, comprising both lower and upper rails.
Also known as the meeting rail, it’s the upper and lower rails that come together when opening, closing, and locking.
Providing structural support, the jamb is located along the top and sides of the window inside the framing, housing tracks and rails for window operation.
The horizontal top part of the window frame, also known as the head jamb.
The interior moulding trimming the window and covering the area between the frame and jamb.
Situated on the bottom sash of a single- or double-hung window, the lift is used for raising the window.
The main vertical sections of the window, positioned at the sides of the sash.
A flashing made from sheet metal, placed at the top or head jamb to divert water from the house.
The combination of head, jamb, and sill forms the window frame, providing overall support for the window system.
Narrow strips dividing window panels or creating the illusion of multiple panes. Used for decorative purposes, they can be installed between glass panes or on the surface.
In contrast to simulated divided-light windows, true divided-light windows feature several glass panes separated by grilles or muntins.
Heavy vertical or horizontal pieces found between adjacent windows, adding structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
A spring-loaded mechanical device counterbalances the sash weight in single- and double-hung windows, preventing them from sliding down when open. Understanding these window parts arms you with knowledge, ensuring a well-informed choice for your replacement window journey.
A quality frame is the most crucial component of a window and will ensure its integrity over time. When you are looking to install replacement windows, it’s essential to get the right frames. Starting with your frame opens a world of options – consider different designs like vinyl, aluminum, fibreglass, and wooden glass in various sizes.
You have various options while determining which colour paint you should use for your window frames. One way to choose the right frame colour for your home is to start with your home’s exterior. If you have original siding or woodwork, you might want to select a frame colour that complements the paint and guards against the UV rays.
There is no way to have energy-efficient windows without quality window sashes. With multi-chambered, fusion-welded, and reinforced window sashes, you get energy efficiency, an improved look to your house and peace of mind knowing your windows are secure for many years to come.
The locking system essentially keeps the windows shut tight. A good window lock will deter crime, keep windows secure and provide a simple solution for ventilation. A sound window locking system acts as a barrier, keeping the elements out and a means to regulate temperature changes within your home. With a hardened steel bar and an impenetrable latch, these locks keep unwanted guests out and maintain the perfect temperature for your family.
Window grids construct in multiple methods- etched glass, solid brass, and custom patterns. When you plan to replace your existing windows, we offer grid sections and multiple grill cleaning tools to keep them looking new. There’s no easier way to give your windows a whole new look. These attractive between-the-glass window grilles are easy to install and come in different finishes and colours, allowing complete light control while still providing privacy.
Choosing the right glass for your windows is an integral part of your home improvement project. With multi-pane options and energy-efficient coatings, window experts can help homeowners select the ideal windows to meet their specific needs. Here are a few window glass options;
When choosing the right style and materials for your replacement windows, you have lots of decisions to make. With such a vast array of modern window styles on the market, it’s challenging to choose one that’s right for your home. The best types of windows for your home depend on your budget and design requirements. This guide helps you sort out the different types of panes and how they affect your home’s aesthetics and the overall vibrancy of the environment.
Single Hung Windows
These windows offer a single sash that tilts inwards for easy cleaning and an operable top sash that lets you control how much air flows into your home. Single-hung windows are easy to keep clean from the outside because there is no screen. The tilt louvres allow cross ventilation, while the operable upper sash provides light and ventilation.
Double Hung Windows
With a simple operation of lifting and tilting the sashes inward, double-hung windows are perfect for large openings. Classic in style, they feature an upper outside sash sliding down and a lower inside sash sliding up.
Awning Windows
Awning windows have a top-hinged sash that tilts out from the bottom, opening for ventilation or letting the sunshine pour in when you want. These windows usually have several latches that allow you to adjust the window’s tilt for easy cleaning.
Casement Windows
Casement windows operate with a winding crank that allows you to open them completely for maximum ventilation. It makes them remarkably adaptable and ideal for a range of architectural styles, providing wide-open ventilation and easy cleaning.
Hopper Windows
Hinged on the bottom and opening from the top, hopper windows are the perfect solution for basement finishing and ventilation. These are placed on the lower level of a home because they can provide additional airflow. Hopper windows can cut down on energy costs while still allowing natural light into small spaces.
Fixed Windows
Also known as picture windows, these windows do not open and close. That means it won’t air condition or heat your room. But it will provide you with a panoramic view of your backyard. A fixed window is an ideal option if you’re looking for more light and natural elements in your home but don’t want to sacrifice safety or energy efficiency.
Slider Windows
Slider windows have customized sashes and can either slide to the left or right to open the window. Slider window features casements that stay in their tracks and offer maximum opening. This feature allows you to open the window from any position and easier cleaning by simply lifting the window out of the frame.
Bay & Bow windows
Bay windows feature three to six non-operable panes that add a great deal of aesthetic appeal to your front and side elevations. You can see from several different directions with bow windows, creating plenty of natural light for any living space or work area.
End Vent Windows
Added with a permeable space on one side and solid on the other, end vent windows will broadcast air throughout your home. This window features a fixed glass unit in the centre and an openable glass unit on either side. You can open one or both ends at the same time to let fresh air into your home.
You may be thinking, “Why window replacements?” Aside from the cosmetic and security advantages that come with new frames and sills, there are several ways of saving money in the process.
Replacing your old windows is cheaper than you may think, and some benefits extend beyond your initial savings. Energy Star certified product upgrade can cut your energy costs by $27-$197 per year. Replacements can reduce energy costs by up to 50% in a typical drafty home.
Furthermore, they can significantly reduce your monthly heating and cooling costs. Not only are replacement windows an investment in energy efficiency, but they can also dramatically improve the overall appearance of your home.
Your window replacement journey unveils a unique tapestry of costs, including various factors that make each project distinct. The overall expense covers the window type, size, features, customizations, and the total count of windows undergoing transformation.
For a modest investment, window replacement costs can start as low as $300-$500, showcasing the spectrum of possibilities. Opting to replace all windows simultaneously proves a cost-efficient strategy, as prices per window often decrease in this comprehensive approach compared to selective replacements.
The key to unravelling the mystery of your specific project cost lies in a free in-home consultation. This allows window professionals to meticulously assess your replacement needs and unveil a detailed, tailor-made quote, ensuring transparency and clarity in your window upgrade journey.
Choosing the right window installation method is crucial for a seamless and effective upgrade when it comes to window replacement. Two primary methods, retrofit and full-frame installations, cater to different scenarios and preferences.
In the world of window replacement, retrofitting is a cost-effective and time-saving method. This approach involves installing new windows into the existing frames, provided they are structurally sound, undamaged, and square.
Opting for retrofit can be a smart move, especially when partial replacement units are sufficient to enhance your windows. It’s an efficient way to breathe new life into your space without needing a complete overhaul.
On the other hand, a full-frame installation becomes imperative when the existing window frames face structural issues due to rot or damage. Though it might entail a higher upfront cost, this method ensures the new windows work optimally.
A full-frame replacement encompasses not just the window itself but includes the frame, sill, jambs, and the nailing flange. This comprehensive approach guarantees a fresh start, addressing any underlying problems and providing a solid foundation for your new windows.
Ultimately, the choice between retrofit and full-frame installation depends on the condition of your existing frames, installation costs and your long-term goals. While retrofitting offers a budget-friendly option for structurally sound frames, a full-frame installation becomes necessary when a more thorough transformation is needed. Consider your priorities, and let the right installation method elevate the comfort and aesthetics of your living space.
Beginning your journey of a window purchase opens the door to a carefully orchestrated process, ensuring a seamless transition from selection to installation.
The initial step involves precise measurements taken by our dedicated installation team, who visit your home to assess the windows slated for replacement.
Following this, a waiting period ensues, typically spanning 4-8 weeks, during which your custom windows are meticulously manufactured in-house.
As your windows take shape, we collaborate to set a convenient installation date tailored to your preferences. While occasional delays may arise, we strive to uphold your timeline.
We recommend clearing furniture and belongings away from the designated windows to expedite the installation.
On the scheduled installation day, certified technicians arrive, swiftly replacing windows, ensuring correct installation, and leaving your space pristine.
Post-installation, a meticulous inspection ensures each window meets perfection and aligns with your satisfaction. Any issues identified are promptly corrected, underscoring our commitment to excellence.
The windows in your home are directly exposed to the elements and can quickly fall into disrepair. While some damage is easy to spot, other window issues may not be as easy to identify. Inspecting your windows could save you a lot of money!
To make replacing damaged windows easier, you need to find critical clues that reveal when it may be time to replace them. Broken seals, water damage, or drafts that require energy to heat are all signs your windows have failed in some way.
Getting a new window can be a costly process, but it also has lots of benefits. Vinyl replacement windows are an essential investment, and you want to make sure they meet your needs now and for years to come. Here are a few benefits your window replacement would bring you;
Your windows are the first line of defence against the elements. Ensure their safety and value by regularly inspecting them to detect any leaky areas or sticking parts. It’s crucial to maintain your windows so that they are working correctly. Need help choosing the replacement windows that’ll make the most improvement in your home? We’ve got you covered. Check out the perfect replacement windows for your property on our website!
Cracks in the glass or broken locks can make your windows less energy-efficient and threaten the security of your home. When that happens, it’s time to contact a professional for window replacement.
If you plan to replace your windows, it’s essential to consider factors like the cost of replacement and the quality, styles, and features of windows before making a purchase.
Casement Windows are the most energy-efficient windows because they open up for maximum airflow. It makes them the best choice for reducing heat in the summer and cold in the winter.
When it comes to performance, double-pane windows work best in keeping you safe from UV rays. But triple-pane windows are the best option when it comes to insulating your home, especially in a colder climate.
Whether your home is traditional or modern, there’s a window that can fit in perfectly. Determined by both interior and exterior needs, there are several window styles to consider. If you want an elegant look for the front of your home, the double-hung windows would be perfect. However, if you wish to prevent blind spots at the back of your home, consider using the casement windows.
Replacement windows can be installed quickly and easily, within a few hours. When you work with a professional company for a complete window replacement in your home, it takes less than two weeks to replace 15-20 windows.
For maximum noise reduction, it is good to know that an acoustic double-glazing unit works best. However, you can add a laminated outer pane of 6.4mm glass into the triple-glazed units, which would most likely outperform the acoustic double-glazing.
Recalibrations are recommended after certain events, such as a windshield replacement or collision avoidance, and periodically to ensure continued accuracy.
Your windows are an investment. Picking the right replacement window contractor for your home is essential if you want to get the best possible results.
If your home requires window replacement, Budget Glass is a popular choice for trusted quality and craftsmanship. We offer a wide range of contemporary window styles that can complement any home. Our experienced representatives are happy to help. We use only the best replacement windows in construction. Get estimates for custom window installation or replacement windows.
This blog is written by the team of Budget Glass Calgary, We are a local glass Shop in Calgary, Alberta. We offer quality Auto Glass Repair & Replacement, Residential Glass, Commercial Glass, Vinyl Windows and Door repair & replacement services in Calgary Alberta. We stand behind all our glasswork, and our customer service speaks for itself. Contact us to get the best glass solutions for your property!
Budget Glass is one of the fast growing company in Calgary Alberta and a member of Budget Automotive Group Inc.
