Foggy windows and condensation issues. Old and drafty windows. Window installation contractors in Madison AL help you choose the right type of windows for your home.
Choose a local window installer that has many years, ideally decades, of experience in installing different types of windows. Ask for local references from previous clients to ensure that the company has an excellent reputation for workmanship.
Casement Windows
If you’re in the market for new windows or replacing old ones, your options are many. Most homeowners will encounter vertically sliding single- or double-hung windows and horizontally sliding awning or fixed picture windows in their search for the perfect fit. However, a less-popular type of window can add significant value to your home and help you achieve the look you’re going for.
Casement windows hinge on one side and open outward using a crank handle to provide excellent ventilation in hard-to-reach spaces. They’re available in a variety of frame colors and sizes, and can be combined with other styles for a custom look. To ensure casement windows function well, they need to be properly maintained. This means washing sills, tracks and windows regularly and lubricating hinged hardware.
Awning Windows
Unlike most windows that slide open upwards, awning windows hinge at the top and open outward. They offer excellent ventilation and natural light for areas of the home that need it, such as kitchens and bathrooms. They also have a tighter seal than other window types and are ideal for catching natural breezes to help keep your energy bills down.
They’re also easy to operate thanks to the simple hand crank, which requires less effort to open and close compared to sliding windows. However, their slanted design can make them difficult to clean, so you’ll need to be vigilant about removing dust and debris from the windowsills. Also, awning windows can’t be opened in the event of an emergency, so they shouldn’t be installed near outdoor walkways or on upper levels of your home.
Bay or Bow Windows
When you want to improve your home’s curb appeal and expand your view of the outdoors, consider adding bay or bow windows. These projection windows instantly enhance the look of any room and add a focal point. They can also add extra living space for a cozy nook or storage area.
Both bay and bow windows are attractive options for many homeowners because they allow natural light to enter the interior, offer gorgeous views of your landscaping, and provide additional ventilation. However, there are several differences between these types of windows that you should be aware of before making a decision.
Bow windows typically feature a larger glass area than bay windows and offer more curves to the exterior. This makes them a good choice for more traditional or Victorian-style homes.
Garden Windows
Adding a garden window to your home can brighten a kitchen, nook or bathroom. These specialty windows act like a small greenhouse to showcase plants, herbs or other decorative items. Garden windows also allow natural light to flood into the room and can be left open to let in fresh air.
Since these windows cut into your wall, it’s important to hire a professional window installation contractor. A pro can cut into your wall safely and seal the edges to prevent water and air leaks.
Local window installation contractors have years, if not decades, of experience in the field. They can help you choose the right windows for your Madison, AL home, and install them to your exact specifications. They can also help you save money on your energy costs with new replacement windows that are more efficient than old ones.
Tilt-and-Turn Windows
Tilt and turn windows are a European style window that makes a big statement aesthetically as well as functionally. Their dual functioning design allows for controlled ventilation and secure locking through a single handle.
They open horizontally like a regular casement window and can tilt inward, similar to a hopper window. However, they also can be opened vertically, allowing for quick air flow.
These windows are extremely durable and offer great protection against the elements as well as burglars and intruders. Their design has an RC value of 2-3 and is miles ahead of North American standard windows when it comes to protection.
If you have these windows in your home, it is important to keep them clean and inspect them regularly for damage. To clean them, you can use a mild soap and water solution. They can also be lubricated with silicone based grease on a regular basis to make them more efficient.