If you’re in the market for new windows and doors, there are a lot of things to consider – including energy efficiency, price, durability, style and other factors. Our experienced project managers and carpenters can help you select the right windows and then professionally install them.

Here are some things to consider when you’re looking at new windows.

Performance

We recommend using ENERGY STAR qualified windows if your budget allows. These windows provide better performance for your home. Some things that affect a window’s performance are the number of panes, the type of gas between panes, and a coating between panes to reflect radiant heat and keep heat in or sun out.

You can compare the performance of windows by looking at the U-factor. The U-factor is a measure of how much heat can transfer through the window. It’s based on a scale from 0 to 1. Ratings closer to 1 are less efficient, and closer to 0 are more efficient.

For example:

  • A window with a rating of 0.15 is one of the most efficient you can buy – with three panes, a low-density gas between panes and an insulated, airtight frame.
  • A 0.30 rating may be given to a standard double pane vinyl frame window you can buy at local construction supply store.
  • If you have a single pane window in your home, it’s probably closer to 0.50.

U-factor is the inverse of R-value, which is typically used to rate resistance to heat transfer in walls, floors and ceilings. For example, a wall in a newer home with 6 inches of fiberglass batt insulation may have a U-factor of about 0.05, or an R-value of 21.

In a home with well-insulated walls, floors and ceilings, windows are the biggest holes in the home’s thermal envelope. The window in that wall may have a U-factor of 0.30, or an R-value of about 3. Upgrading that window from 0.30 to 0.15 would increase the R-value from 3 to about 7.

Depending which direction your windows face, you may want different U-factor ratings, coatings, etc. for different part of the home. This helpful article gives more detail about window performance and how you can use a mix of ratings within your home.

Price

There can be a big price difference between different types of windows. ENERGY STAR qualified, double pane vinyl frame windows with a U-factor of 0.30 are going to be the cheapest option – a 2 ft. x 3 ft. window may cost $700-$900 to install. A similarly sized window that is triple paned with low density gas, an airtight frame and a U-factor of 0.15 may cost $2,000-$4,000 installed.

Keep in mind that lower U-factor windows will cost extra in energy bills, as they don’t insulate as well.

Aesthetics

It’s important that you like how your windows look! A picture or bay window with beautiful wood trim can really raise your home’s aesthetic appeal. The clarity of a window can factor into the look of your home, as can the material of your window frames (wood, metal, plastic, etc.).

Similarly, the operation of a window is an important part of aesthetics and use. Windows can lift up and down, swing out, slide left/right or be fixed. Some rooms (like bedrooms) may need to have an egress (exit) window for fire safety. These must be placed a certain height from ground, open a certain width.

Durability

The durability of a window goes beyond performance factors like the number of panes and how the window operates. It also involves the window casing, frame, hardware and flashing. If not installed properly, windows can get shifted out of frame or the gas between panes can leak. If you’re replacing old windows, the holes from the old windows aren’t going to be perfectly square – so it’s important to hire a professional to make sure it’s installed properly and won’t leak or let extra air in.

Lead and Asbestos

If you’re replacing windows in your house, you’ll want to make sure you aren’t inhaling lead or asbestos dust from the materials around the windows. Windows in homes built before 1979 may have lead in the window frame or track, or in paint on the interior or exterior walls. This lead can be released into the air when windows move up and down, or when replacing windows. Asbestos can be in the drywall, plaster, caulking or exterior siding of homes of any age.

Our team is certified to test for lead before a project begins, and then remove it safely while working on the project. And our sister company, CAZ Environmental, can test for asbestos and remove or abate it as needed.

Ready to get started?

CAZ Construction has experienced carpenters on our team who do all phases of carpentry work from framing through finish. We work on a variety of projects, including installing, upgrading or repairing windows, frames, hardware, casings and flashing. Call 360-389-1056 to get a quote today.