Form vs. Function: How To Prioritize When Replacing Your Windows
Whether you have realized that your old windows are not energy efficient, have you purchased a house and want to make it more your own, or are looking to sell your property and want to increase its value, it may be time to replace your windows. Many homeowners are frustrated with their options, so we put together a guide to aid your decision-making.
What Are the Most Important Functions You Need Your Windows To Have?
Each home is unique and has its own vulnerabilities. When choosing replacement windows you must take into account your environment. Homes that endure harsh seasons are particularly vulnerable, as extreme temperatures put stress on your home’s infrastructure.
Do your windows effectively help your home maintain an optimal temperature? Energy-efficient windows are essential pieces of insulation, keeping your heating and cooling costs as low as possible.
Are your current windows strong enough to withstand winter year after year? The addition of storm windows will protect your investment and help you avoid costly repairs and replacements.
Will you be able to safely and easily open your windows in the event of an emergency, while still being able to lock the window securely from the inside? Old windows with failing locks and sticky hinges can be hazardous to your safety.
Are your windows suitable for the specific needs of the room they are in? Bathrooms and kitchens need the most ventilation. You should take safety precautions for rooms above the first floor or children’s bedrooms, whereas your basement windows must have the strongest watertight seals of all your windows to prevent flooding in heavy rain.
It’s All in the Details: Aesthetic Choices Are Crucial for Making Your Home Beautiful
With all the many duties your windows serve in your home, the importance of the way they look shouldn’t be ignored. Windows bring light into your home, they can determine how much privacy each room has from the outside world, and they offer you countless options to personalize your home or raise the value for the next owners.
As Kate Reggev writes for Dwell, maximizing natural light in your home can “increase occupant productivity and comfort, provide mental and visual stimulation, boost occupant mood, and can even dramatically reduce energy costs.” These upgrades are an investment in your health and well-being.
The positioning and size of a window will eliminate wall space, so be sure to take that into account. When planning window replacement for smaller rooms or rooms where you are already using all of the wall space for storage or decoration, consider how large the new windows should be to let in enough light without sacrificing your needs.
Prioritizing and Compromising
With so much to think about, it’s important to thoughtfully consider your needs and wants before choosing your replacement windows. After identifying the most important duties your windows must fulfill you can move onto the more creative and expressive undertaking of deciding how you want your renovated space to look.
Luckily there are plenty of options that are both fully functional while being beautiful additions to any home. An overview of our replacement window options can be found on our site.
We hope you found this article helpful in your decision-making process. Please let us know how we can help you find the perfect windows for your needs.