Tips for Picking Out Windows

1. Keep the style of your existing home in mind. Cut pictures of windows you like from magazines.
2. Remember, you can order windows with colored exteriors. These colors often come with long-term warranties against fading and peeling.
3. Don’t limit yourself by what’s already there if you’re remodeling. Think creatively—a window can become a door.
4. Consider interior aesthetics. You have a choice of wood, plastic or vinyl.
5. Think functionality. Decorative glass can be a great conversation piece and also provide added privacy.
6. Establish a rough budget for windows. It’s easy to overspend.
7. Look for an overall window U-value rating of .35 or less (the lower the U-value, the higher the energy savings).
8. Avoid scale mistakes when replacing or adding windows. Key off existing windows, checking the size you’ve chosen either by masking off the section with tape or by using inexpensive home remodeling software. Some showrooms have such software plus an on-site designer to help you choose the proportional size.

Download our Window Styles and Common Roofing Materials Charts.

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