Helping Homeowners in the Queens, Westchester & Nassau County Make the Best Choice
Why do most homeowners choose to have new windows installed in their home? The most common answer is to keep the house more comfortable and lower their fuel costs. With the seasonal changes our customers experience in Long Island, Westchester and the New York City area, it is important to take into consideration both warm weather, and cold!
So, what are the leading types of windows? And how can you choose the right one for your needs?
Vinyl Windows
If you are looking for the best return on investment then a well-built vinyl window is a safe bet, but we’re not referring to the low-priced products you can find at your local Home Center. The low-priced vinyl windows have a thin gauge of the vinyl and parts that don’t seal well, which allows for air to come in. We have dubbed these low-cost vinyl windows as “temporary” windows – you will be changing again and sooner than you think.
Most companies now offer a Low Emissivity (Low-) glass package with inert argon gas in the glass. This is a MUST if you are seeking maximum efficiency. Look for a U-factor (the energy rating established by the National Fenestration Rating Council) of a .30 or less; the lower the number, the better (call us in to show you our interactive demonstration and gain a better understanding). The moving parts on low-end windows do not meet up properly or seal well against the stationary parts; this can be seen when you pull the window up and down while in the locked position; if there is significant movement then air is finding its way in. Windows of a higher caliber will have weather-stripping, or a fuzzy nylon material, all around the window. Since this serves as a seal, much like on an entry door, the more weather stripping on the product the more comfortable you will be.
Wood Windows
Traditionally windows were made of wood due to the versatility of the material. While wood windows offer beauty, warmth, design flexibility and energy efficiency, they do require regular maintenance.
Wood frames that have not been properly cared for can warp with moisture, as well rot and look old. Aside from the appearance factor, wood frames typically come at a higher price than vinyl or steel frames. Wood window framing should be free of knots and warping when purchased, and when looking at the wood it should appear to be perfect.
Aluminum Windows
One of the biggest advantages of aluminum is that it is very light, but still strong. It’s durable and doesn’t require much maintenance. Aluminum windows in cold climates, like the New York City region, can be problematic due to their inability to hold heat in well.
Major Homes offers windows with “safety laminated glass”, an excellent way to protect your home in the event of a storm with strong winds and flying debris. It can even help in the event of an attempted burglary; similar to the windshield of a car, it consists of a sandwich comprised of two 1/8” pieces of glass baked around a clear polycarbonate plastic. It can take an incredible amount of impact without allowing entry. Noise reduction is also a benefit of this glass system.
Installing quality windows is a cost-effective to way lower your bills, beautify your home and keep your family comfortable all year long.
