The Wasatch Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for homes in the valley. For those fortunate enough to live in the mountains themselves, there are important considerations to bear in mind for their house. A mountain home has different requirements from its windows than a house in another environment. In the Wasatch Mountains especially, you need windows that can hold up against the freezing cold winters and hot summers.
Your windows are one of the most important aspects of your home. They impact its curb appeal, its energy efficiency, and its durability. As such, selecting the right windows for your mountain home is not a decision to be taken lightly.
Here, we’ll arm you with some key information that will help you select the right windows for your mountain home. It’s important to note that every home is different, with different needs depending on its build and orientation, as well as your budget. When you’re choosing the best windows for your home, this article will outline some basic guidelines, but it’s best to consult with a window professional. They’ll come out, examine your home, and be able to advise you on the ideal options available to you.
That said, let’s jump in!
#1. Frame That View
When you live in the mountains, you likely have stunning views all around you. You want windows that can help you enjoy the windows to the max. There’s nothing like waking up in the morning and being able to see the sunrise color the snow in shades of rose and peach. After a long day of work, being able to come home and enjoy all the fir trees is peace unlike any other.
Some of the best windows for framing your view are the big, floor-to-ceiling ones. You may also opt for custom-sized windows that are larger than normal. Another thing you can do is to opt for black windows, so that your scenic view is framed like a picture.
An important thing to bear in mind when it comes to getting the most out of your view is the orientation of your house. Depending on which way it faces, you may not want huge windows facing the view, as this could lead to a loss in energy efficiency.
A window professional will be able to advise you on what windows are best for you to both get the most out of your view and to enjoy optimal energy efficiency.
#2. Cold Weather Window Frames
Here in Utah, winters can get freezing, especially if you live up in the mountains. While the quiet beauty of freshly fallen snow and sparkling frost on the trees can’t be beat, you want to keep the frigid temperatures outside. Your home is your haven, after all. It should be cozy, warm, and comfortable as can be.
There are many aspects of the build of your home that affect its energy efficiency. Your daily habits impact how high your energy bills get too, such as if you prefer it roasting inside or you like to leave windows and doors open.
Your windows should be equipped to handle the cold weather you experience in the mountains. The best windows for a mountain home are ones that can insulate it from the cold.
Your window frames play a major role in this, as this is the part of the window where most heat can escape. You need to ensure that you keep your windows in good condition with routine maintenance, of course. But you also need to ensure that you choose the right material.
You want to avoid aluminum windows, as these don’t hold heat well. Wood windows are the optimal choice for cold weather climates, followed by vinyl and fiberglass. Depending on your budget, you may opt for one of these over the other when choosing windows for your mountain home.
#3. Glass For Mountain Climates
When you choose windows for your mountain windows, it’s not just the frame that matters, but also the glass. Your glass panes can majorly impact the energy efficiency of your home. Many people who live in the mountains opt for double or triple-paned windows with low-e coatings in order to keep their home nice and warm.
It’s important to note that the higher the elevation, the more this can impact the performance of your windows. Some windows can expand the higher you get, rendering them far less energy-efficient than they would otherwise be.
Talk to your window professionals about glass options for high-elevation windows. Some offer specialty options in order to help your windows for your mountain home perform their best.
Peak Windows provides professional glass services throughout Northern Utah and Southern Idaho. If you need windows for your mountain, please don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule your consultation. We’ll be able to provide you with selections best suited for your budget and your home.