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Windows 101: The Homeowner’s Guide to Windows

As a homeowner, there’s much to know about windows. From shopping to installing, designing to maintenance, this easy-to-understand article breaks it down for you.

Understanding Residential Windows

When it comes to home improvement projects, replacing windows is one of the most popular projects that homeowners do. It's important to consider all the factors that go into windows, as they will be a long-term feature of your home. Quality, energy-efficient residential windows can benefit your bank account, comfort, and lifestyle.

Replacing Your Windows

As a homeowner, it’s important to be aware of the signs that your window needs to be replaced. You may notice your home becoming slightly more drafty in the cold months or find there’s condensation on the glass. These can be signs that it may be time for a replacement window. Replacing your home’s windows can give your house a new lease on life and make a great first impression to all who visit.

There’s a lot that goes into deciding if it’s the right choice to replace your windows. Whether you’re looking to upgrade all the windows in your house, or maybe just replacing casement windows with double-hung windows, navigating the process doesn’t have to be complicated. When looking to replace your windows, it’s helpful to first understand the window installation process.

As a homeowner, the cost of windows is likely one of the top considerations when choosing a replacement window. The cost of replacing windows will vary depending upon what look you are trying to achieve. The investment of replacing your windows will depend upon the material, type and different features and options you select.

Shopping for Windows

You’ve decided to invest in new or replacement windows for your home — congratulations! Now it’s time to tackle the intricacies of windows. Understanding the parts that make up the anatomy of a window will help you avoid confusion and give you a leg up while shopping for windows. Knowing the meaning of balances, sashes and lifts will help you understand how a window operates so you can decide which window type is best for the needs of your home.

There are many factors to consider when purchasing windows for your home. Before you start thinking about window features and upgrades, you first need to determine which window material is right for your project. Depending on climate performance, one type of window may be better suited for your home than another.

Living with Windows

Upgrading your home with new windows has many benefits, including increased home value, enhanced safety and security, and improved aesthetics inside and out. New windows also help reduce drafts and hot spots, which can improve the comfort of your living room.

We offer a variety of features and options to fit your lifestyle and home needs. If you don't want to worry about cleaning or want to reduce dust or allergens in your home, installing blinds and shades between the glass is an easy option. Our windows are easy to care for and clean - designed with features like tilt sashes to make those hard-to-reach areas easier to care for.

Once your new windows are installed, you can further customize your unique space. No two types of windows are the same. Knowing what window treatments work best for each type of window can add the extra touches that make your house your home.

Window Installation

New windows have many benefits including improved comfort, energy savings, peace and quiet and security. But to achieve all of these benefits, you will need to work with an experienced window installer to ensure your windows are installed correctly. There are four different options for installation including a Pella professional, independent contractors, your local home improvement store or doing it yourself.

Whether you’re an experienced DIYer and are planning on tackling the installation yourself, or are hiring a professional, there are two different methods of installation: pocket installation and full-frame installation. Depending on the requirements of your project, you will need to determine which installation method is right for you. While hiring a professional will come at a cost, it’s a time-saving and low-stress option for homeowners. An experienced professional will ensure that your window installation proceeds as planned and will clean up the mess and haul away old windows at the end of the installation.

Designing Your Home’s Windows

For most homeowners, designing your home’s windows is a fun and exciting part of the home improvement process. Pella offers a wide array of features and options that may be perfect for your home. Our windows range in materials and options to fit your home, your needs and your budget. You can choose the material, type and customizations that make a good choice for your home. The possibilities are endless for making your custom window dreams a reality — even down to the finish on your custom hardware.

Finishes and Colors

When designing your windows, you can choose between interior and exterior finishes, each with their own benefits. If you choose wood windows, you have the option of painting or staining the interior of the window and using aluminum cladding on the exterior for more design flexibility. Fiberglass windows feature a powder-coated finish that has the premium look of a painted wood window. Two-tone options are also available, meaning the windows are white on the inside and you can choose a different color. Vinyl windows are available in solid color frames and two-tone frames to add character to your home.

Grilles

Grilles are another way to add character to your home's windows. Pella offers both traditional grilles that are easy to clean and interglazed grilles. In addition, there are a variety of grille patterns that will help accentuate your home's architectural style. Grilles are available in colors that match your window frames, creating a uniform look for your living room.

Hardware Choices

Choosing window hardware is important to the overall look of your windows. To keep in line with your home's natural architectural style. Whether it's classic, rustic or contemporary, you can customize your window hardware to fit your needs.

Screens

Each screen varies in clarity and breathability. You also have the option of adding retractable screens to maximize your window space.

Understanding the basics about windows and window replacement will help you be more knowledgeable when looking for windows.

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