Whether you’re building a new construction home or your windows need replacing, high-quality windows are essential. Windows are already an investment – the last thing that you want is to invest in a low-quality product. Fortunately, there are ways you can distinguish a good window from a lower-quality window.
Here’s what you need to know about what makes a good window so that you can go into the window-buying process with more knowledge. It’s always best to consult with experienced, highly-rated professionals, as they will be able to help you find windows that suit your specific needs.
What Sets A Good Window Apart From A Bad Window?
When you look at windows, it may not be immediately apparent whether or not you are looking at a good window or a bad window. This is especially true if you have no idea what to look for, which most homeowners don’t. Different frames may look nicer than others, such as wood, which almost always looks expensive. But good windows come with all sorts of different frame materials.
Here are some things to watch out for while you’re (literally) window shopping.
- Hardware. You can test this by seeing how easy the window is to open and close. A poor-quality window will be somewhat difficult, while a high-quality window should be nice and easy to operate. You can also look at the hardware itself. For instance, cheap hardware is often made with folded metal sheets. On the other hand, quality hardware is usually made with solid metals.
- Multi-chamber technology. This can be tricky, as cheap and expensive windows alike can advertise having this. What multi-chamber technology is when the window frame has lots of small pockets, which you can see in a profile. What this does is help with sound insulation and to prevent warping. You can compare how many pockets (or chambers) the window frame has, as well as ask the sales rep.
- Reinforcement. Windows need reinforcement inside the frame in order to avoid distortion and to provide structural support. Cheap windows will do this in-between the windows with wood profiles. Higher-quality windows will do this inside the window profiles and often use metal.
- Compression seal. The compression seal helps to insulate your windows. These prevent drafts and water leaks, as well as help with energy efficiency. Cheap windows typically only have one or two compression seals, while a good window will have three or so.
- Ratings. Check to see whether or not the window is Energy Star rated. Cheap windows have lower ratings than good windows, which means that they’re not very energy-efficient. In order to get the best bang for your buck, you want an Energy Star rated window.
- Glass. See if the glass panes have protective coatings or not. You also want to see how thick the glass itself is, as well as how many panes the window has. Double- or triple-paned windows are generally higher quality than single-paned windows.
- Frame. There are good windows with vinyl frames, wood frames, fiberglass frames, and more. However, you want to select a window frame with good thermal resistance. You also want to ensure that you can handle the maintenance of the type of material you choose. Wood may look expensive, but it’s also expensive to maintain.
- Installation. Of course, the company matters a great deal here too! You could have the highest quality windows there are, but if they’re improperly installed, they simply won’t last as long or serve you as well. Ensure that you are working with a highly rated, experienced window installer that is licensed and insured. Ask to talk to previous clients and look through their reviews.
The Ideal Qualities Of A Good Window
Hopefully, you have a better understanding of what makes a good window in regards to how it’s made. It’s also important to know precisely what a window should do for you. If you have mostly lived in places with poor-quality windows, windows that were improperly installed, or old windows, you may not be aware of how good windows should work.
A good window should:
- Be easy to operate.
- Provide safety and security.
- Have impact-resistant glass.
- Be easy to maintain (wood can be an exception to this rule).
- Have an average lifespan of approximately 15-20 years.
- Improve your home’s curb appeal.
- Improve your home’s energy efficiency.
- Not be drafty.
In order to ensure that you get what you pay for with your good windows, you want to hire an experienced window company that specializes in windows. Peak Windows provides professional window services to see to all of your window needs. From window manufacturing to broken glass repair to replacement windows, you can count on us for exceptional products and workmanship. Contact us today to learn more about our windows!