Residential windows Houston TX are an integral part of a home’s beauty, function and feel. They can be the source of light, air circulation and temperature control.
Investing in a quality window will increase your home’s value and improve its aesthetics. However, homeowners should be cautious about purchasing cheap windows.
1. Energy Efficiency
Investing in energy-efficient windows is one of the best ways to lower your utility bills. These windows offer better insulation, preventing heat transfer and decreasing the strain on your HVAC system to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Some homeowners have saved thousands of dollars a year by choosing Milgard windows, which are Energy Star qualified and feature low U-factors.
High-performance windows are designed to keep cool air in during the summer and warm air in during winter, thereby reducing your energy consumption. This helps you save money on your energy bill and reduces carbon emissions.
In addition, energy-efficient replacement windows help reduce noise pollution and can increase the comfort of your home. Double- or triple-pane windows with advanced sealing techniques provide improved soundproofing and make your house quieter. Moreover, energy-efficient window glass is specially coated to limit the amount of sunlight that enters your home. This helps you avoid overheating and fading of furniture. The windows are also designed to protect your interiors from harsh UV rays.
2. Durability
Having quality windows is essential to the overall safety of your family, home and belongings. Winds during hurricanes, tornadoes or storms can shatter old and inefficient windows and cause severe damage to your house. Newer window replacements are designed to be stronger and more durable, ensuring that they can withstand such strong weather conditions.
Today’s frames and sashes can be made of aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass or combinations of materials sometimes called hybrid windows. The glass is usually a single pane or an energy efficient insulated glass unit (IG) consisting of multiple panes separated by spacers and bonded together using insulating materials.
Cheaper windows, especially those that are exposed to the sun’s brutal UV rays all day long, will have a hard time standing up to Houston’s near tropical climate. Humid air will quickly destroy them, leading to water damage that can promote mildew and other dangerous microorganisms. Quality windows will last longer and save you money in the long run.
3. Aesthetics
The windows you choose are not only a crucial home improvement, but also a design element that contributes to the overall look and feel of your home. Some homeowners aren’t satisfied with traditional options and want to make their homes stand out from the crowd, while others may have spatial constraints that call for uniquely shaped windows.
If you’re looking for a window that’s both stylish and functional, consider awning windows. These windows open by swinging the sash from top to bottom, creating an awning effect and allowing for plenty of ventilation.
Double-hung windows offer a timeless option that suits a wide variety of architectural designs. They’re characterized by two vertically sliding sashes, offering the perfect balance of simplicity, functionality and classic aesthetics. For an even more timeless and elegant design, consider bay windows. These windows create an inviting alcove that extends your living space while providing expansive views and natural light. You can also enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing your privacy by adding sound barrier windows, which reduce noise infiltration from outside.
4. Installation
Window replacements are one of the most important investments a homeowner can make. You want them to last for years, look great, be easy to maintain, and provide good energy efficiency. However, choosing the right windows requires some research.
Energy-efficient windows have multiple panes of glass insulated with argon or krypton gas and separated by spacers. These are also referred to as insulating glass units (IGs). They offer greater insulating value than single-pane windows. In addition, they can reduce drafts, moisture and air infiltration, noise, and condensation.
Most residential windows are manufactured from aluminum, wood, vinyl or combinations of these materials. They are available in various finishes and can be custom-made to match your home’s style and color scheme. Some windows may even have factory-applied films to replicate wood grain or metallic finish. They are designed and tested to meet industry standards for air, water, and structural performance.