Positioned appropriately and installed correctly, windows spread light, increase ventilation, insulate and complement a home’s architecture. Details make a difference. When window-shopping for your new home, think beyond the floor plan to a wall plan. Create affordable comfort in your new home with the right windows.
How to choose
Windows come in many shapes and sizes. Decide on a consistent window treatment – pattern, trim and casing. Then select the scale, quantity and style of your windows, relying on the treatment for design unity.
If you have ceilings nine-feet or taller, you may want to bring the top of your windows to an eight-foot height rather than the six-foot eight-inch height that is typical. This extra 16 inches of light can make a huge difference in the brightness of your home.
Consider how window placement affects heating and cooling. Windows opposite each other create passive ventilation.
Rooms with more than a view
Imagine the view from outside of the house as well as from the inside. What side of a room do you want the light to come from? East and west windows accept a lot of light from the sun during spring and fall so, if the room is being used for television watching or computer work, this can be an issue.
When the living room overlooks a pleasing outdoor area, you might choose big windows to extend the space. Use your windows to accentuate your best views. We have seen many, many homes on beautiful sites with living rooms that, rather than focusing on the grand vista outside, have two-story fireplaces or massive walls blocking the view of the water, the woods or the golf course.
On the other hand, you can skimp a bit on windows for rooms that aren’t used much during the daylight hours. A formal dining room is one example.
Energy savings
Energy-efficient windows will reduce your heating and cooling bills.
Window glass (or as it is called in the trade, “glaze”) is important for achieving good insulation and temperature retention. The glaze is measured in R and U values. Look for a glaze with high R-value and low U-value.
Low-e windows – windows with a coated glass that offers protection against both heat and cold – are a proven energy-saver. Double-pane or, even better, triple-pane windows, ensure a better insulated home.
A window for your lifestyle
To save time on home maintenance, choose top and bottom tilt-in sashes for easy cleaning. Anti-water systems around bay windows make them a worry-free choice.