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New
windows give home quick face-lift
These days, windows are made from several different types of materials.
Each has good and bad points.
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| Window frame materials |
|
| Vinyl |
Affordable;
energy-efficient. |
Vulnerable
to extreme temperatures; difficult to paint. | | Aluminum
| Inexpensive. | Tends
to let heat and cold inside. | | Fiberglass | Very
energy efficient; less vulnerable to extreme temperatures. | More
expensive. | | Wood | Traditional
choice; sturdy and durable; high thermal value. | Can
be high-maintenance; prone to weathering; heavy and more expensive. |
Other window considerations
- Geography:
Certain window materials are more prone
to problems related to extreme temperatures.
If you live in a very hot or cold climate,
windows made from fiberglass may be your
best bet.
- Energy
efficiency: This is an important
consideration, especially in colder regions.
You want the windows to offer as much protection
from the outside temperature as possible,
to help lower your heating or cooling bills.
Look for the U-value, which indicates how
well the window keeps out heat and cold.
The lower the U-value, the better.
- Appearance:
Remember, windows are one of the few parts
of a home that are visible from both the
inside and the outside. So you want them
to look attractive and mesh well with the
overall style and feel of your home.
- Difficulty
of installation: Window installation can vary widely in degrees of difficulty,
depending on the type, size and location of the windows involved.
- Upkeep:
Aluminum and fiberglass tend to require
less maintenance, while wood windows need
more upkeep.
Choosing
a contractor
If you decide to have a contractor install
your new windows, it might be wise to first
select the type (and brand) of windows you
want. The manufacturer can then provide you
with a list of approved installers (who specialize
in those types of windows) in your area.
Tip: If you install
Energy Star-rated windows before the end of
the year, you can qualify for a federal tax
credit of up to $500. To learn more about
the tax credit (and find out which type of
windows qualify), visit energystar.gov.
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