by BL Smith

Created on: February 05, 2008

How To Choose the Right Replacement Window

Choosing the right replacement window for your home involves many factors to help you make the best choice. Typically homeowners will replace windows in order to achieve better insulating properties and decrease heating or cooling loss. Replacing windows is a good solution to this problem as there are several brands of windows on the market today offering insulated glass and weather stripping to keep the unconditioned air out and the conditioned air in. Two technical terms you may find in your search for windows are U factor and R factor. U factor is the measure of transfer of energy. R factor is the ability to contain energy. When looking at a window, you will want to at least consider finding the lowest U factor and highest R factor possible. There are several variables that will determine your final choice but energy efficiency should play a major part in your decision. Most windows you will find compete well with each other on efficiency but being aware of the numbers you see on a label can be helpful. This article will help guide you through the process of determining what type of window will suit your needs.

Typically one of the first questions that I am asked, as a representative of a large window manufacturer is, "What is the difference between a Replacement Window and a New Construction Window?" Simply put, a replacement window can be made to fit into an existing opening that a window currently occupies and is in fact installed within the frame of an existing window. A New Construction Window is made for a new opening where there isn't a window presently, called a Rough Opening. Either type of unit can be made of wood, aluminum, fiberglass or vinyl and even various combinations of the aforementioned items.

If your windows need replacing, first you'll have to see if the existing window frames need to be replaced. This will ascertain whether you need a replacement window or a new construction window. You can tell by first observing the exterior sill. This is the portion of the window at the bottom of the frame that typically protrudes anywhere from " to as much as 3" off the face of the house. (Typically you see larger sills on historic homes) If there is no sill, you may find a piece of casing running along the bottom of the window frame. The condition of this piece functions as an equally good barometer. Take a peek under the sill and determine if there is any rot. Also look at the ends and the top of the sill

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>