Are you interested in changing the appearance of your home? If yes, you should consider installing specialty windows to replace the old and worn-out options.
The American window installation industry has a market size of $5 billion today. The growth results from homeowners realizing the benefits of great windows for their homes. Homeowners are thus forced to search for replacement windows to enjoy these benefits.
Choosing the right specialty windows won’t be a walk in the park, citing the many available options. As an investment, you should ensure your window replacements offer you the much-needed value. It’s thus invaluable to make your time when selecting to find a suitable choice.
Selecting the right specialty windows requires knowing your options. Continue reading to learn about the different types of specialty windows and how to choose among them.
Types Of Specialty Windows
Specialty windows are hugely classified as fixed windows without the standard regular shape. The differences form the various types of windows mainly used for decoration in a home. Here are some of the ordinary specialty window types;
Round Windows
The round windows are the most expensive specialty window options available due to their design. As the name suggests, the round windows assume the shape of a circle when installed on a structure.
The main difference is their size when designing the round windows, which depends on your building. You could also adjust the partition designs to create a unique window replacement.
Round windows are challenging to install since you might need to reconstruct part of your wall. You should thus call the experts to install it.
Round windows, however, create a huge appeal and are unique since they’re rare within the market.
Arched Windows
Arched windows, also called radius windows, create a dramatic effect in contemporary homes. The arch windows are tall and wide like casement windows. They, however, feature an arch at the top of the window, which is their distinctive feature.
The simple addition to the conventional square in standard windows adds some appeal. The immense relief is that such windows are less costly to make and install. You’re able to enjoy great window replacements without having to dent your budget.
Circle Top Window
These window options are mainly confused with the arched windows. At first sight, you might think they’re similar, but the difference is in their functionality.
Circle top windows feature half a circle on top and a flat bottom. The half-circle is installed above the regular window that opens on both sides.
The circle top is an ideal replacement option if you’re replacing a double-hung window. You’ll realize that the window replacement improves the overall outlook of your home.
Palladian Windows
For someone looking for a window replacement that’ll wow your guests, consider Palladian windows. These specialty window replacement offers structural supremacy to create a unique curb look.
Palladian windows have an arched window with extra window panels on their sides. As a result, the arch covers the top of the central piece alone to create a magnificent window.
Custom Specialty Windows
You might be thinking of an idea that’s out of the ordinary. It’s advisable to get as creative as you’d like, but ensure the design fits your house.
Talk to a replacement windows expert to determine what custom design fits your home. The experts are ready to help with the endless design possibilities. The specialists work to deliver the exact design that captures your interest.
How to Choose Specialty Windows?
Now that you know the various types of specialty windows available, you should choose ones that suit your home. The choice isn’t always easy for most people, but it requires knowing what to look for. Here are some of the tips for choosing new windows.
Check the Curb Appeal
I’m sure you’re interested in making your home stand out within your neighborhood. You should thus install specialty windows that enhance the curb appeal.
How your house is viewed from the street or the driveway is important. Your windows are the first thing visitors will see while they’re driving up to your house. It’s thus essential to ensure your choice is impressive to make a considerable difference in your curb appeal.
One mistake most first-timers make is to assume all windows can fit their home. Well, despite the design impressing you, it might look off when installed on your house. Choose a specialty window style that doesn’t conflict with the house’s architecture.
Luckily, there is a gamut of specialty window designs for you to choose from. If you have no idea about what fits, it’s advisable to consult with the experts. The experts recommend specialty window options that offer your space a more distinct look.
Consider Energy-Efficient Options
How would you like to cut on the hefty energy bills you have to pay every month? I bet you’d love that, and one of the ways to manage it is to choose energy-efficient windows.
Windows are responsible for almost 30% of heat loss or gain in your house. As a result, you’re required to use the HVAC more which adds to the already hefty bills. Choosing energy-efficient windows is the most thoughtful way to conserve energy in your home and save money.
Specialty windows have energy efficiency properties since they limit heat loss or gain in your home. The insulation properties reduce your HVAC system usage, thus lowering the energy spend. Additionally, by blocking off the sun’s rays, they help your interior stay cool during the summer.
Confirm your window’s energy performance rating before installing to ensure energy efficiency. The energy performance characteristics are based on factors like;
• U factor- how the window transmits non-solar heat flow
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) – the amount of solar radiation your window admits
• Air leakage – the rate of air movement around your window
Window replacement contractors help with the installation to cover all air leaks. You’ll thus save big in energy costs once you start using the specialty windows.
Ensure They Improve Home Security
Did you know that the window is a huge entry point for most burglars? You should thus invest in a robust specialty window to ensure it fosters security in your home.
The standard windows break easily, so they don’t offer much protection against thieves. Consequentially, shattered windows pose a threat to the safety of your household. Install specialty windows since they’re sturdier to avoid breaking and shattering.
The security of your home is your utmost priority, so choose windows that shut tight. Check the mechanism and design of the locks to ensure they’re functional. Some windows come with an advanced security system that offers extra protection.
An excellent specialty window offers you peace of mind since you’re assured of protection from break-ins. You can rest easy knowing you won’t have to treat cuts from broken windows as an added advantage.
Consider the Return on Investment
Installing specialty windows in your home is an investment, so you’ll need to think of returns. How much value do the window replacements add to your property? Considering the ROI is essential when choosing specialty window replacements.
There’s no doubt that a specialty window will add value to your home. However, each specialty window type has a unique return on investment which you’ll need to compare before installing. Ensure your window option is desirable so that buyers can pay more for the property.
The main distinction regarding the ROI is on the window material. Here’s a breakdown of the different materials and their respective ROI to help you decide.
• Vinyl windows’ ROI is at 74%
• Wood windows have an ROI of 69.5%
• Fiberglass windows can recoup at least 70% of the investment
• Aluminum windows have an ROI of 62%
Using the ROI as the only measure when choosing decorative windows is unwise. Check the different properties for each specialty window to ensure they’re the right fit.
Think of Installation and Maintenance
How much are you willing to spend on replacement window installation and maintenance? Thinking of the installation and maintenance costs ahead helps you plan your budget. These variables also influence your choice of specialty windows.
Nobody loves spending continually on maintenance for their windows. It’s why window replacements with low maintenance needs are preferable for most. Check the maintenance requirements for each specialty window option to ensure it’s reasonable.
Find out how much the window replacement experts will charge you for specialty window installation. A great option will charge a reasonable amount that you’ll surely fit in your budget. You wouldn’t want to overspend on the window replacement project, would you?
Choose the Best Specialty Windows
Finding a specialty window replacement, although tricky, doesn’t have to be challenging. Consider the above factors to make choosing suitable specialty windows for your home easy. It would be best to involve experts to get the best out of your selection.
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