The Top 5 Features to Look for in Energy-Efficient Replacement Windows

As THE replacement window contractor serving the Minneapolis area, we sometimes get asked by prospective customers about which items are the most important to consider when choosing new windows.  Of course, the energy efficiency rating would be at the top of the list, but that’s a given.  Here are five important things to evaluate (in no particular order):

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  photo courtesy of Eden Prairie Lifestyle Magazine

  Window Frame Material:  Replacement window frames include real wood, vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum.  (We do not install nor do we recommend aluminum windows – they are generally the least expensive, and with good reason.  We do however recommend Marvin wood windows with exterior aluminum cladding for those who love the look of wood without the drawbacks of exterior wood.  Each type of window frame has its advantages, depending on which factor is most important to you.

• Window Style: Two things to keep in mind are that you do not have to replace your existing windows with the same style, nor do all the windows in your home need to be the same style.   Certain styles work better in some areas than others.  For example, the traditional double-hung window is still the most popular style, but we don’t recommend it for areas you have to reach over in order to open it, such as a kitchen sink.  In that case, a glider or casement window would be a better option.
• Glazing:  This includes number of panes (we generally suggest two, although triple-pane windows are available from some of our suppliers.  These windows provide the utmost in insulating value, and they might be good options for areas that face north, where we get cold winds blowing at us in the winter.  There is also gas filling, UV ray protection, and more.
• Maintenance & Convenience Features:  Maintenance-free exteriors  mean less time and money spent on things like repainting or re-staining.  A feature in high demand among our customers is the tilt-in sash that allows you to clean the exterior of your window from inside your home.  Other things include built-in shades or blinds between the glass (just think of the time savings on dusting and cleaning!),
• Security/Safety: This category includes break-resistant glass (a great feature on ground level windows to cut down on the potential of home burglary through a broken window.  Also strong locking mechanisms, child-proof locks, screens that resist the pressure of a child’s curious hands,etc.

We’re happy to work with you on determining which features are most important to you, and then when we’ve got your priorities figured out, we can suggest several replacement window solutions that will offer what you’re looking for.  We’re not satisfied until you are, and that starts with our initial no-cost, no-obligation consultation.  Why not set up an appointment with us today?

Window Outfitters, Inc. is a licensed Minnesota home remodeling company serving the greater Minneapolis area.  We specialize in energy-efficient replacement windows and exterior doors. 

 

 

 

Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.