Time for new windows for your Minneapolis or St. Paul area home?  There are so many types of windows that you can choose from; however, a lot of the choices don't apply unless you're choosing windows for new construction.  Of course, if you're looking for custom windows or adding an addition to your home, then those could come in handy. For the most part, homeowners shopping for replacement windows are seeking windows that are the same size and shape as the existing ones. You might want to change the size of the current windows, but if you're like most homeowners then you just want an affordable, energy-efficient, easy-to-install option when it comes to the windows that you put in your home.

Choosing the Window Glazing

One of the biggest and best things that you can do for your windows to make them more energy-efficient is to have sufficient glazing. You should have two layers or glass to create a heat flow barrier.  For Minnesota homes -especially northern exposure windows - another layer of glass to provide a triple glazed window reduces the heat flow even more and makes sure that heat and cool air does not go outside from the home.

Window Films, Tints and Coatings

All of these provide low-E coatings that are able to improve the performance of the windows that you have installed in your home. When there are reflective films added to the windows, you can block out unwanted sun waves to keep the home cool, but you do not obtain as much lighting, which means you have to use your electricity more.  Films like this should be reserved for areas where the need for external light is not an issue - such as a bedroom.  You're able to reduce the amount of visible light throughout the home without totally blocking it out using gray and bronze tinting as well.  An option to cut down on heat loss but not the sunshine is a Low-E coating.  Low-E coating is virtually invisible and is able to provide a way to block out the heat and keep the home cool. Not only that, but in the colder months, it can keep the heat inside the home.

Construction of the Windows

The material that you choose for the windows can affect the efficiency of the window. Vinyl and fiberglass have more efficiency than wood or vinyl without insulation. Steel and aluminium can perform the worst of them all.

Replacing Old Windows

You have three different options when it comes to replacing out windows: full, insert and sash only. When it comes to sash only, this provides you with just a new sash and jamb liners.  Choosing this type of replacement   means that the rest of the window has to be fully operational. Insert window installations only provide the window; stops and sashes and the moldings that are currently there are not replaced. The old window frame should be in good working order for this to work correctly. A full window installation is when everything in removed, the frame, sash, glass – everything. You can have this done if the entire old window is not working the way that it should be.  Which is right for you?  A professional replacement window contractor can help you evaluate the state of your existing windows and make a recommendation.

Save Yourself Money with the Right MN Replacement Windows, But Don't Neglect Other Factors

When you replace your windows, you might not see a drastic change in the heating bill to start; it is usually just small reductions over time that you will notice. This is because a lot of windows are only giving R-values of 4 to 5. Make sure that the rest of the home is insulated as well during this process to expand on your savings. Start in the attic and work your way down.  Ill-fitting exterior doors can also be a reason for high heating or cooling costs.

When is a Good Time for Window Replacement?

When the window is rotted out or deteriorated beyond repair, it's time to consider replacing it.  Or perhaps you simply do not like the way your old windows look.  New windows in a different style could give your home a total makeover.  Now is the time to check out the ones that are out there and go from there. There is no right or wrong time to replace the windows in your home. Whenever you're ready is when you should start the process.

Here at Quarve, we are a Minneapolis and St. Paul MN replacement window company that is proud to install windows from Andersen, a legendary Minnesota company that provides quality windows that are able to last.  Check out our Andersen board on Pinterest to get a look at just some of the beautiful windows they offer; then give us a call for a free consultation - 763.785.1472.