(ARA) — Shoes come in a wide variety of styles: sneakers, wingtips,
boots, sandals. They're all shoes. Each style has the same basic
makeup. Each has unique benefits. Sneakers alone range from
bare-bones cloth models to more expensive, high-tech athletic shoes.
People don't get confused when shopping for shoes because they're an
everyday item that is bought regularly.
Much like shoes, windows come in several different styles and
materials, and have a range of benefits and prices. Unlike shoes,
however, consumers don't frequently purchase windows. If you're
considering new windows, you'll need to see through all the window
terminology and product attributes to ensure they're the right fit.
A builder,
remodeler or millwork specialist at a lumberyard or building
materials dealer can help demystify windows. Web sites such as
www.peachtreedoor.com
also are useful. Peachtree has a glossary of terms and pictures
defining window, patio door and entry door components.Window
Styles
Choosing a window style is typically a matter of personal
preference. Do you prefer windows that "crank" out or windows that
slide up and down or left or right? Here's an overview:
Crank out windows come in two styles: casement and awning.
Casement windows open from one side, like a door; awning windows
open at the bottom.
Single and double hung windows are very popular for their
traditional look. They have two separate units (sash) inside a
single frame. The bottom sash moves up and down in a single hung;
both sash move in a double hung. The sash can often be easily
released and removed from the frame to be cleaned from inside.
Gliding or rolling windows have one or two sash that slide side to
side in the jamb track.
Windows without any moving parts are called fixed, picture or
direct-set windows.
Bay windows are
multiple windows configured together to protrude from the home
at an angle. Similarly, bow windows are created by multiple windows
joined together in a curved shape. Pittsburgh Homeowners often use
bay or bow windows to create a cozy cove or breakfast nook.
Window Materials
Wood windows still dominate the housing market, however,
vinyl and composite materials are increasingly popular.
Wood is durable, attractive, energy efficient and can be painted or
stained to create a personalized look. Wood, however, requires
regular maintenance.
"Wood windows are very popular," says Jeff Kibler of Peachtree Doors
& Windows. "Manufacturers also provide alternatives that use wood's
desirable properties, require less maintenance and are less
susceptible to deterioration."
These alternatives include wood windows covered, or clad, in
aluminum or vinyl on the exterior. Both vinyl and aluminum clad
windows are virtually maintenance free, look great and perform well,
according to Kibler.
Because they require no maintenance and cost less, all vinyl and
vinyl composite windows are gaining on wood. Once considered flimsy,
today's vinyl windows are durable. Peachtree vinyl window frames are
reinforced with steel stiffeners, and are fusion welded to prevent
separation. Vinyl windows cannot be painted, inside or out, limiting
the ability to change a home's exterior look or match interior
millwork.
All aluminum construction, because it readily conducts heat and
cold, is being used less in residential windows as energy codes
become more demanding. Aluminum windows have a rigid frame, which
can support large panes of glass with little sagging or warping but
can eventually pit or dent.
Fiberglass windows are relatively new and therefore are more
expensive. Fiberglass windows are typically a solid composite,
making them a reliable barrier to outside elements. They have good
structural integrity and do not need regular maintenance. Like
vinyl, they cannot be stained or painted.
Energy Efficiency
Window glass, its enhancements and the process by which it is
placed into the frame is called "glazing." Energy-efficient windows
use insulated or insulating glass — meaning it has two or three
panes of glass. The airspace in between the panes acts as a buffer,
reducing the transference of heat or cold. Manufacturers further
increase this insulating ability by filling the airspace with a
dense, harmless gas such argon or krypton.
When you're trying to determine windows' energy efficiency, look for
R- and U-values. The higher the R-value, the better the window
reduces heating and cooling bills. The lower the U-value, the better
the window insulates against heat transference. EnergyStar
certifications and ratings from the National Fenestration Ratings
Council also indicate energy efficiency.
Many manufacturers offer products of varied prices and options to
meet broad preferences. Peachtree Doors & Windows offers Symmetry by
Peachtree, an all vinyl product line; 300 Series of vinyl clad
windows; and the 500 Series and 700 Series lines of aluminum clad
windows.
Price will vary by style, by manufacturer and by material. Single
hung and gliding windows tend to be less expensive than double hung
or casements. Aluminum and vinyl, which vary widely in price and
quality, are often the least expensive.
Windows, like shoes, are available in a wide variety of styles and
materials. Finding one that fits takes some research. Because
windows can be a major investment, it pays to see through sales
language and product attributes for a clear understanding.
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