Comprehensive guide to invest in right window replacements.

A variety of things must be taken into account when buying new windows. What is the best material for your windows? Vinyl or wood? Is it better to have double- or triple-glazed windows? Are garden windows worth the expense, and where is the best place to install one in your home? Window shopping can be confusing, but we’re here to help you make the right choice regarding window style, materials, and construction.

At Best Exteriors, you can shop an extensive selection of replacement windows Livermore CA homeowners love, and/or request a quote on any type of window installation. For more information or to request a quote, call us at (888) 853-6277

Window Frame Materials

Window frames come in a few different types of materials, as well as varying shapes and sizes. Some of the most common frame material include:

Wood

Window materials like wood are popular, particularly in new construction. When it comes to efficiency, wood is excellent at insulating, however, the maintenance required is considerably greater than that required by vinyl or fiberglass.

Fiberglass

Windows made of fiberglass are durable and waterproof. In spite of the fact that they tend to be more expensive than vinyl, their construction process (where glass fibers are woven together) makes them significantly more durable. The disadvantage of fiberglass windows is that they are not typically available in as many colors as vinyl windows, and they cannot be painted.

Vinyl

Windows made of vinyl remain one of the least expensive options while still being durable and attractive. Vinyl windows come in many colors and finishes. Made with impact-resistant PVC, they do not rot or fade, and require no painting.

At Best Exteriors, you can shop an extensive selection of replacement windows Livermore CA homeowners love, and/or request a quote on any type of window installation. For more information or to request a quote, call us at (888) 853-6277

Glass Options

A wide range of glass packages is available for modern windows, each providing unique benefits in terms of security, noise reduction, and energy efficiency. Single-paned windows are common in older homes, but newer models come with double- or triple-panes. Glass with double or triple-panes is assembled using an insulating spacer in between each pane, and the space between each pane is filled with an insulating gas, such as argon or krypton.

Additionally, it is possible to obtain windows with special glass coatings designed to block heat and UV rays while not blocking the transmission of light.

Low-E Glass

The glass has a low emissivity and a transparent coating acting as a thermal mirror used to improve a window’s insulation value, reduce fading and block or increase heat flow.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGE)

This number represents the amount of solar heat energy that makes it through standard summer glass. It includes both the direct transfer of heat to and the indirect transfer of heat from the glass. A lower value indicates a more efficient window in blocking heat gain.

“U”-Value

The rate at which the material absorbs heat. The U-value represents the difference between indoor and outdoor air temperatures that results in heat loss or gain. Heat is transferred more efficiently through windows with a lower U-value.

If you are shopping for new or replacement windows, look for ENERGY STAR® certification. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets strict guidelines for all products carrying the ENERGY STAR label.

At Best Exteriors, you can shop an extensive selection of replacement windows Livermore CA homeowners love, and/or request a quote on any type of window installation. For more information or to request a quote, call us at (888) 853-6277

What is a replacement window?

Window replacements are windows that are custom-built to fit in the existing window opening. Installing it does not disturb the interior or exterior areas around the window, as it is designed to fit precisely.

Is it necessary to replace my home’s windows?

Replacement of the windows is necessary at some point. Replacement windows Livermore CA can improve the resale value of your home, reduce energy bills, and increase your home’s comfort level.

Do I need to replace all the windows at once?

When replacing your old windows, it’s not necessary to replace all of them at the same time. You can lower your heating and cooling costs by replacing just a few windows at a time. Though you should replace all of them in order to achieve maximum energy savings, save time on installation and get a bulk discount.

What Is Low-Emissivity or Low-E Glass?

Metal or metallic oxide is embedded into a thin, virtually invisible layer of low-E glass. Usually, it is deposited directly on the surface of at least one of the glass panes. Adding Low-E coating to a warm glass pane will reduce the infrared radiation from the pane, decreasing the window’s U-factor.

Is it possible to save money on my heating and cooling bills?

Absolutely! If you replace your windows, you can expect to save up to 40% on your energy costs. However, how much money you will save depends on what kind of window you currently have installed.

At Best Exteriors, you can shop an extensive selection of replacement windows Livermore CA homeowners love, and/or request a quote on any type of window installation. For more information or to request a quote, call us at (888) 853-6277