Your windows perform several important functions, including upping your home’s curb appeal and reducing energy costs. They also protect your family from harsh weather conditions.
Residential windows Birmingham AL are available in a variety of styles and types. Choosing the right ones for your home depends on a number of factors, including your budget and the look you want to achieve.
Types of Windows
The right windows can make a big difference in your Birmingham home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and aesthetics. When you’re ready to replace your current windows, look for a manufacturer that offers a range of frames and glazing options. They should also be able to provide custom window sizes.
Wood frames are a classic choice that enhance the beauty of any property. They’re a natural insulator and can last for years with minimal maintenance. Some manufacturers offer wood-clad windows that combine the benefits of wood on the inside with a low-maintenance aluminum or vinyl jacket on the outside.
Many modern windows are designed to improve your home’s efficiency and curb appeal. They reduce air leakage, cut glare, and help you save money on your heating and cooling bills.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows feature two sashes that open and close. They’re ideal for homes with traditional or colonial aesthetics and can provide a high level of ventilation.
In contrast, single-hung windows only allow the bottom sash to slide open to let in air and hot sunshine. They also don’t have the option of tilting inward, making them less easy to clean from within your home.
Because double-hung windows can tilt inward, they’re perfect for rooms on the second floor or where it’s hard to reach exterior window surfaces. They’re also more energy-efficient than single-hung windows because they can be opened to help cool your house without drawing in outside air. You can choose from a variety of frame materials, including wood, vinyl and composite. They can be customized with a wide range of decorative details.
Single-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows are the classic type of window found in many older homes. They only open from the bottom. The windows are also ideal for rooms that don’t require a lot of ventilation.
They are easier to clean and maintain because the movable sash is only on the bottom. The opening is out of reach for small children and pets, making them safer to use.
Single-hung windows allow more air to circulate in your home, which helps reduce strain on your HVAC system and saves energy. They’re also available with Low-E coatings and argon gas insulation to improve efficiency and comfort. Schedule a consultation with a local window contractor to find the best options for your home. This way, you can lower your energy bills and make a positive impact on the environment.
Casement Windows
Like double-hung windows, casement windows come in a variety of styles and designs. These fusion-welded windows have sturdy frames and sashes that are resistant to rot, warping, and other common forms of damage. They also have Energy Star certification to help you save on your heating and cooling costs.
With no sliding sash, these cranked windows open with a side hinge and a window crank mechanism. They’re easy to use in locations that are hard to reach with a standard double-hung or sliding window, and they offer unobstructed views and plenty of natural light.
Energy Star casement windows have a tight seal that reduces air infiltration and helps you cut your energy bills. They also have a locking mechanism that prevents the outer sash from accidentally falling.
Sliding Windows
Your home’s windows play a critical role in everything from enhancing curb appeal to increasing your property value. They also help reduce energy costs and keep your family comfortable all year long.
If your windows are old, outdated or drafty, it may be time to replace them with new ones. A professional window installation company will have the knowledge and expertise to select the best windows for your home, and can provide you with options that suit your style and budget.
Sliding windows can open from both sides to let in fresh air. They are ideal for living and dining areas where you want to have a beautiful view but also have the option of ventilation. They have little frame to obstruct your view and are perfect for those with short walls.