Windows are an important part of a home’s aesthetic and energy efficiency. Replacing them can help reduce electricity bills and improve the quality of a home’s air.
Window prices vary based on material and style. Choosing the right one is crucial to your Smithtown home renovation project. Some options include frosted glass, which allows light to enter while obscuring visibility.
Energy-Efficient Windows
New window frames and glass offer great energy efficiency. Double-pane windows with argon gas in between the panes and low-e coating help reduce heat loss during winter and block the sun’s projected heat during summer.
Quality frame materials minimize heat transfer and help insulate better. Some ENERGY STAR windows use argon or krypton gases between the panes to improve insulation even more.
Vinyl Windows
Vinyl windows are a great option for Smithtown homeowners looking for low maintenance. They are affordable, energy efficient and easy to install. They do not need to be restained or repainted and are available in a variety of colors and styles.
They feature a PVC frame that holds two thinner glass panels separated by an insulating air space. Some manufacturers also offer triple-glazed vinyl windows.
Wood Windows
Wood windows offer a classic aesthetic and natural insulation. They can be painted or stained to fit any style of home.
They are also known for their energy efficiency, and can reduce energy bills by keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Wood frames are less prone to water damage than other types of frames.
Another option is to choose a wood-clad frame, which has the outside covered with vinyl or aluminum but still retains the look and feel of genuine wood.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows and doors are a great option for coastal homes because they are durable and resistant to harsh weather conditions. They can also be engineered with Low-E glass and a thermal break to make them more energy efficient.
Aluminum frames are less expensive than vinyl and can last for decades. However, they can corrode if exposed to salty air, and may need periodic wiping down with an aluminum cleaner and occasional lubrication of moving parts.
Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass windows are a popular choice for homeowners because they provide both strength and beauty. They are also ideal for historic homes because they can be crafted to resemble wood. They are also less expensive than clad wood and require little maintenance over the years.
The frames and sashes of fiberglass windows expand and contract at the same rate as glass, which helps prevent leaks. They are fabricated using an automated process called pultrusion.
Composite Windows
Composite windows offer the sleek lines of aluminium cladding with a timber core. They are ideal for new-builds and eco-homes. They also come with a variety of decorative hardware options.
These windows are highly durable and resistant to warping, rot, and pest damage. They are easy to maintain and can be cleaned using mild cleaners. They are also highly energy efficient.
Triple Pane Windows
Triple pane windows are a great option to reduce drafts and cold spots in your home. They use three glass panes with a gap between them filled with argon or krypton gas for energy efficiency.
These windows are ideal for cold climates and can boost your home’s value. They also reduce noise and can improve your home’s comfort.
Energy Star Certified Windows
ENERGY STAR qualified windows, doors and skylights meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. This means that they provide superior energy performance compared to other NFRC-certified products.
Look for the ENERGY STAR label when shopping for new windows. Learn how to read the ratings on the label, and choose the right window for your home. This helps reduce energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions.
Glass Options
Window glass can be one of the most overlooked aspects of a window or door purchase. It is usually just seen as “clear,” but there are many other options that provide privacy, noise reduction and energy efficiency.
Textured, tinted, and obscure glass provides privacy while letting light in. Some even reduce glare and visible heat transfer. However, these options add on to the overall cost of a window.
Frosted Glass
Frosted glass provides privacy but still lets in plenty of light. It is also less expensive than etched glass and more durable.
Scott often sees customers looking for privacy in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and pantry doors. He also works with businesses that want to use window film in conference rooms and office partitions.
Frosted window film allows a great deal of creativity and is available in several colors. It is also easy to clean and can be removed without damage.