How to Choose Replacement Windows

Installing new windows can make your home quieter, less drafty, and more comfortable. Newer windows tend to be more energy-efficient and easier to clean and maintain. Plus, they can help boost your home’s curb appeal. Wondering how to choose replacement windows? Learn what to look for as you shop. 

When and How to Choose Replacement Windows

High-quality windows can last many years, but even well-maintained ones will eventually need replacement. If any of the following scenarios apply to you, it may be time to replace your windows:

• You’re noticing new or worsening drafts around your windows.
• You’re experiencing a sudden increase in your energy bills.
• You have a window that sticks, jams, or is difficult to open or close.
• You can spot visible damage, like cracks or chips.
• Your windows have single-pane glass or temperature-conductive frames and sashes.
• The windows installed by the previous homeowner are the wrong size, shape, or quality for your home.
• You don’t like the style or look of your current windows.
• You want newer, more energy-efficient windows.
• You’re renovating, updating, or expanding your home.
• Your current windows are nearing the end of their lifespan (windows typically have a lifespan of 15 to 40 years).
• You want newer windows with features your current windows lack.

If any of the situations above apply to you, you may wish to update your windows. But when it comes to how to choose replacement windows, where should you start?

Choosing Replacement Windows

Consider Energy Savings

Replacing an old window with any newer, better-designed model can help reduce your energy bills, but opt for an Energy Star-certified model to maximize savings. The Energy Star program, managed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), estimates that installing these certified windows can save the average homeowner 12 to 13 percent on their energy bills. 

You can save even more by installing a replacement window from Energy Star’s Most Efficient Window list. Along with the money you’ll save on energy bills, the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act allows you to claim a 30 percent federal tax credit, up to $600 a year, through 2032. 

Choosing energy-efficient replacement windows can also boost your home’s resale value and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

Glass Options

Many older windows are made of a single layer of glass, but replacing them with modern double- or triple-paned windows can boost their energy efficiency. As you decide between single-, double- or triple-paned windows, remember that increasing the number of glass panes means increasing the window’s efficiency, insulation, and performance. 

Gas Fills and Coatings

If you choose a double or triple-paned window, you can also choose to fill the spaces between panes with gas (typically argon) instead of air. Argon is a safe, non-toxic gas that reduces heat transfer and boosts your window’s efficiency. 

Look for windows with low-E coating options, too. Low-E coatings can reduce heat transfer and help provide superior insulation against the elements. 

Understand the Label

It can be challenging to distinguish a top-quality window from one that falls short if you’re not an expert. Fortunately, certain labels can make the shopping process easier. Along with checking for an ENERGY STAR label (which indicates that the product meets the program’s standards for energy efficiency), look for information about a window’s U-Factor, SHGC number, and R-value.

U-Factor: This measures a window’s ability to retain heat inside a room, with values ranging from 0.20 to 1.20. A lower number indicates better performance.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): An SHGC number measures how well a window blocks heat from the sun on a scale from 0 to 1. Lower numbers are more effective at keeping out summer heat, while higher numbers mean more natural light. A higher SHGC number is better in northern regions, while a lower SHGC number is best in the South.

R-Value: A window’s R-value measures a window’s insulation power. Higher R-values are generally preferred and are associated with better insulation.

Remember that even the best quality windows won’t perform up to their potential if installed incorrectly. Hire professionals with a proven track record of successfully installing the types of windows you choose for your home. 

As the Ozarks’ largest locally owned and operated residential remodeling company, Liberty Home Solutions knows replacement windows. Liberty Home Solutions is delighted to offer Soft-Lite energy-efficient replacement windows in various sizes and styles. These amazing windows are an ideal way to upgrade the look and feel of your home. Our expert team can guide you through the entire process. Contact us today to explore your options or request a free estimate.