affordable options for replacing very old windows

Many homeowners get stuck with the windows the previous owner selected. This can make it exciting to get new windows for your home because you will have total control over the exact kind you get. The selection can seem overwhelming, so here is a breakdown of some popular window options to help narrow down the selection process.

Know Your Window Materials

If you want a window that is easy to maintain, wood is out of the question due to the maintenance that is necessary over the years to keep it looking good. Three options that you should consider include.

• Fiberglass –A great material if you are looking for overall quality. When compared to alternative materials, fiberglass beats the competition in qualities like thermal performance, structural strength, maintenance, and resistance to failure. It expands and contracts 800% less than a vinyl window, which makes it ideal for areas that see all four seasons.
• Aluminum – This material is highly rated when it comes to structural strength, so it will maintain its shape over the years very well. They do not perform as well when compared to other materials in terms of thermal protection though.
• Vinyl – While they provide great aesthetic appeal with very little maintenance, they lack in qualities like color reliability and climate durability in the heat.

Know The Window Types

Once you have a material selected, select one of these window types.

• Double/single hung – A very traditional choice for a window, with one or both sashes being movable. These are ideal in places where you want the window to be contained to the frame when open, such as if the window overlooks a patio or walkway.
• Casement – This window will open similar to a door, with it swinging outward from a single side using a crank. The scoop it creates when open can catch the wind as it passes by, creating a bigger breeze in the room. The crank also makes it easy to open when the window is high up in a room and difficult to reach.
• Tilt-in – A window that tilts inward will simply be more versatile than other windows. You can swing the window wide open like it was a casement window, or only a little bit so that you still get air flow but have some security as well. This biggest difference between a casement window and a tilt-in window is that the latter opens inwards instead of outwards. You'll need the room for the window to swing into the home to take advantage of it.