![]() ![]() Sliding windows. They slide open to the left or right.Double-hung windows. Both the top and bottom open.Single-hung windows. Only the bottom opens.The most common window-opening styles are: So a sleek, contemporary home would look just right with grid-less windows, but a red-brick 1800s Georgian would look near naked without grids on its windows. ![]() Windows with grids that divide the glass into what looks like smaller windows (really old, single-pane windows actually are made up of individual panes of glass held together by wooden grids) are the more traditional classic windows, while those without grids are more modern in style. Windows that open from the top, bottom, both - or side?.Two more things help determine which style of window to choose: Of course, the material your windows are made of isn't the only decision you'll have to make. Choosing wood-clad will add to the cost, but their easy-to-maintain classic style might make you overlook the bottom line. They're real wood on the inside of your home, but vinyl, fiberglass, or aluminum on the exterior. You'll probably hear about wood-clad windows, too. Not good for energy savings in cold climates because it conducts heat. Aluminum - Probably the most affordable.The frame can be filled with fiberglass for more insulation. Vinyl - Easy to maintain and affordable.Composite - Made of modern wood products such as particleboard.Wood - Very durable and energy efficient with classic good looks."The windows need to match the quality and price point of the house," says Bawden. That's because wood trim is what makes a Tudor a Tudor (try saying that three times with a straight face, ha!). Vinyl windows might look fine on a Colonial house, but they would never work with a Tudor-style home, he says. It starts with picking the right material, says Dan Bawden, president and CEO of Legal Eagle Contractors in Houston and chair of the National Association of Home Builders' Remodelers group. And that will save you a bundle.īut if your windows are a lost cause, and it's really time to replace them, here's what to know.Īs we said, new windows can change the look of your entire home. So in many cases, your windows, especially if they're the home's originals, may just need new glass or some simple repairs. Older wood windows can last more than 100 years (for real) because the old-growth wood used back then is super durable - still! Related: Find Out If You'll Save More By Repairing Rather Than ReplacingĮven if your windows are broken or damaged, you might not need to buy new. Perhaps a little window caulking and weatherstripping will do? Energy Star program).ĭo the math: It'll take 17 years (!) for you to save enough to make up the cost. ![]() The most significant energy savings you'd see is $583 annually (says the U.S. ![]() It may be that not replacing them is the smart thing to do, especially when you factor in the cost of new windows: about $19,000 for the typical American home, according to the “Remodeling Impact Report” from the National Association of REALTORS®.Īnd while manufacturers may tout the energy savings new windows can provide, it could take years to recoup that 10 grand. First Ask, 'Do I Really Need New Windows?' Here's how to choose new windows without making mistakes - and avoid spending money you don't need to. "You put the wrong window in and, boy, it will stick out like a sore thumb." That's what Larry Patterson, president of Glass Doctor of Dallas Metroplex, says. Maybe it's finally time for new windows, but can you afford them? And what if you make a mistake that makes your house look even worse? It can, and does, happen. ![]()
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