How to Choose Windows That WOW

Window shopping is no easy task. Your windows should be replaced every 15 to 30 years- depending on the quality of the materials used and installation. Windows enhance your curb appeal, improve energy efficiency and increase the value of your home, all while adding beautiful, natural light to your interior. If it’s time to upgrade your windows, it’s beneficial to choose new ones that check all the important boxes we mentioned above. They should add architectural interest while also improving home comfort and energy efficiency. Here are our best tips for how to choose windows that wow!

Determine Your Home Style

Before choosing your windows, it’s important to determine the architectural style of your home. From traditional to modern, craftsman, colonial, victorian, and more, you should choose windows that suit your home style so they don’t look out of place. Certain windows styles are often associated with defined architectural styles. For example, colonial and craftsman style homes typically have double hung windows. A renovation professional will help you choose the perfect windows based on your home’s architectural style. 

Decide on Your Material

There are a number of different options to choose from when it comes to window materials. Vinyl windows are the most popular today, as they offer modern beauty, performance and energy efficiency, all at a reasonable price point. You get quality, durability and increased comfort with exceptional beauty and style. Aluminum windows are another durable and stylish option. They’re environmentally friendly and will lower your energy bills year round. Wood windows offer a beautiful, timeless look, but are more expensive and require more maintenance and upkeep than any other material. 

Choose Your Window Style

There are many window styles to choose from for your home. The most popular styles include double and single hung windows; casement windows; awning windows; sliding windows; fixed windows; roof windows or skylights; and bay or bow windows. The style of windows you choose affects both the exterior and interior aesthetic of your home, the airflow in your home and ease of maintenance. Match your window style with your architectural style for a beautiful home that wows. 

Extend Your Living Space

One of the most amazing things about windows is they blend the indoors and outdoors, allowing you to enjoy nature while inside your home. Beautiful patio doors are an excellent way to extend your living space, offering a seamless transition from inside out. They’ll expand and brighten every room, adding more light to your home all year round. 

Consider Window Placement

If you’re doing a renovation on your home and are deciding where to place your windows, make sure to consider the directions your windows face to increase natural light and cross-ventilation. When planned correctly, your windows allow you to enjoy your home’s ambiance and air flow when the windows are open. Assess your surroundings to determine where the sunlight falls and make sure you have a good natural light source in every room. If possible, position your windows to focus on the best possible sightlines and try placing windows on opposing walls so that air can be carried straight through your home, providing an ideal source of ventilation.  

New windows can increase your home’s value, improve energy efficiency and lower your energy bills. Use our tips to choose the perfect new windows for your home.