Window Replacement Basics: A Handy Guide to Window Styles – Part 2: What’s in it for Me – Features and Options

Sometimes the little things make the biggest difference. From adding a touch of elegance to enhancing your home’s curb appeal, the right features and options for your new window replacement can make a huge impact on your choice.

Design Flexibility

When it comes to design, cladding, casings, trims and subsills add much needed detail to your windows. Color, texture, and finishing help make your both interior home decor and exterior facade come alive. Choose from wood grains and clean classic painted colors to match your home’s style, while playing up your curb appeal with exterior color options that draw the eye. You can also enhance your home’s architectural details by adding clad casing.

Glazing Options

Don’t be afraid to explore combinations of shape and divided lite or grille configurations with your window. From contemporary to the more traditional, decorator grid and grooved glass designs are good options for any home style. Typically, however, divided lites complement traditional home styles while more expansive glass options work well with contemporary properties.

Energy Efficiency

Replacing your windows is one of the easiest ways by which you can improve energy efficiency in your home. Thanks to technological advancements, both window glass and frames can contribute to making your home more energy-efficient. Low-emissivity coating, for instance, helps to stabilize indoor temperature, preventing your HVAC system from working overtime, by keeping heat let in by a window to a minimum. Natural light is not impeded, however, so you can still take advantage of daylighting and reduce your dependence on artificial lighting.

As for frames, composite materials are now available, taking on the appearance of wood while offering long-lasting durability and ease of maintenance. Unlike wooden ones, composite frames will not expand or contract with temperature changes, helping ensure the integrity of window seals, which assures insulation remains top-notch. With top-notch insulation, indoor temperature remains stable, keeping heating and cooling needs at bay.

With all your options, there’s no such thing as a minor detail. Head on over to Part 3 to put everything together (with the help of some tips!) and pick out the right window replacement for you.