Replacement Windows How to Choose

Homeowners who want to upgrade their existing windows enjoy many benefits. Vinyl replacement windows, as well as fiberglass replacement windows and wood replacement windows , offer a lot of benefits. The superior energy efficiency, enhanced appearance, and improved security replacement windows can offer are cited as top reasons why homeowners replace their windows.

Installing home replacement windows can be a substantial investment. Most homeowners want to make sure they're getting the top value possible for their money, which brings us to our question: who makes the best replacement windows? How can you tell which ones are the best -- not just in general, but for your home and your budget?

There are several signs to look for. First and foremost, you want to look for the Energy Star label. An Energy Star label on your replacement windows verifies that you're making a wise choice, selecting windows that meet rigorous standards for energy efficiency.

But you need to look beyond the stars! Keeping on the energy efficiency theme, you'll want to look for the NFRC rating, which measures energy efficiency. You want a rating as close to 100 as possible.

There are other replacement window ratings to consider. The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) tests windows to ensure they are air and water tight, feature high quality construction and provide some level of security to the homeowner. Look for the AAMA golden seal on your Replacement windows.

We just couldn't agree on anything," said Amy Rocker. "This whole remodel was a nightmare -- and the windows were the worst. I wanted wood windows, just like I'd grown up with, and my husband wanted vinyl replacement windows. He said they were easier to take care of -- he never have to paint them, and they tilt in to clean -- and best of all, they were much more affordable."

"But they were white," her husband, Grant, cut in. "And we just couldn't have white indoors."

"No, we couldn't," Amy said. "It would just look terrible with what we've done in here. Anyways, you see we couldn't agree -- and you've got to have windows!"

Luckily for Amy and Grant, there was a workable option. They didn't have to choose between the classic traditional styling -- and high price tag -- of wood replacement windows and the white vinyl replacement windows Amy was imagining. A visit to their replacement window specialist revealed that not only were vinyl replacement windows available in a wide range of styles and finishes, with an option for every decor.

As an added bonus, vinyl replacement windows offer superior energy efficiency, particularly when compared to the windows Amy and Grant were replacing. "Those windows had been in there forever," Amy said. "When we bought the house, they were already old." Single pane windows, particularly those with leaks or cracks, can be a tremendous source of lost energy, as warmed interior air is released to the outdoors. "So replacing our old windows with vinyl replacement windows started saving us money right away, just on the heating bill alone!" Double or triple pane glass vinyl replacement windows, such as the Alside Sheffield line, are idea for homes like Amy and Grant's.