Windows play a big role in home comfort and energy efficiency. Local window installation experts can recommend options that improve insulation and reduce drafts. They can also install ENERGY STAR windows that prevent heat loss in the winter and air leakage in the summer.
These windows feature a wide expanse of glass that maximizes light and views. They’re ideal for homes with scenic outdoor views or with high ceilings.
Casement
Casement windows hinge open at a 90-degree angle from a side hinge, making them ideal for locations where space is limited. They’re operated with a crank or handle and offer an unobstructed view of the outdoors.
Unlike double-hung and sliding windows, which leave gaps between the frame and the sash to allow air to infiltrate your home, casement windows close tightly and lock at multiple points for a weathertight seal. That’s why they’re one of Energy Star’s most efficient window styles.
Casement windows are also easier to clean than other types because they can be opened fully. If you have a picture window in the center with casement flankers, you can enjoy an uninterrupted view and plenty of fresh air. They’re also a good choice for hard-to-reach areas such as above kitchen cabinets and counters. This makes it easy to smoky proof your home before company arrives or to let in a cool breeze while you prepare dinner.
Double-Hung
This classic window style combines ease-of-use with traditional beauty. Double-hung windows feature two sashes that move up and down within the frame, providing customizable ventilation options. They are also easy to clean, as the sashes tilt inward for simple cleaning.
Energy efficiency is one of the main benefits of choosing double-hung windows. Their tight seal reduces air leakage and helps you save on heating and cooling costs in Scottsboro. Combined with a Low-E glass package, these windows meet ENERGY STAR requirements.
Double-hung windows allow you to open the upper and lower sashes at once, improving airflow compared to other types of windows. This is particularly useful in rooms that face walkways or porches, as it allows you to maintain privacy while letting in fresh air. You can even add decorative glass to your double-hung windows to create a custom look that blends functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Sliding
Sliding windows open horizontally to provide a large opening for ventilation. These windows don’t require additional wall space to operate and have fewer moving parts than other window types, which makes them easier to maintain.
They are a good option for spaces that don’t easily accommodate outward-opening windows, such as those over kitchen sinks or tightly-spaced bathrooms. They also provide unobstructed views and let in ample natural light.
A sliding window’s unique method of opening can inspire creative ways to dress them up, adding a custom flair that stands out from other styles. The simplicity of their design means you can clean both sides of the glass from inside your home, a real convenience.
Sliding windows are available in a wide range of sizes and configurations to meet your needs. Select energy-efficient models to prevent thermal leakage and save on monthly bills. Energy-efficient windows can reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to $376 a year.
Vinyl
Vinyl windows offer a wide range of options. They’re easy to clean and durable enough to last 30 years or more with little maintenance required. They also help keep cold air out in winter and cool air in during summer, reducing energy bills.
The frames are made from a plastic compound and won’t warp, crack or rust. They’re available in a wide variety of colors and finishes to match any style. They’re a good option for homeowners who want an unobstructed view of the outdoors.
However, they may not be the best choice for homes with an alarm system. If the alarm wire passes through a gap in the frame, it can allow water to enter the home and cause serious interior damage.