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This week, Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey & New York Metro has a question for you: Is bigger always better? If your mouth is watering just looking at that decadent New York cheesecake in the bakery window, a bigger slice may indeed be tempting. Although the result may be a bigger waistline if you indulge too often, which isn’t something most of us are trying to capture. If you’re talking about heating and air conditioning bills, you definitely want a smaller statement whenever possible. When it comes to replacement windows and patio doors, bigger is sometimes fabulous. At other times, a small awning or hopper window will do the job just fine.
Let’s look at a few examples where bigger is better and some that show there are terrific benefits in small packages, too.
When you have a spectacular view beyond your window, you likely want the largest viewing area available. Some window styles – sliding and fixed windows, in particular – give you a larger viewing pane compared to double-hung replacement windows and casement styles. A narrower Fibrex frame means you can capture more of that panoramic vista.
Even if you want to capture a beautiful view through a large picture window, you may want to increase air circulation in some rooms. Adding a series of small awning or sliding windows beneath, or above a picture window enables ventilation without blocking the view. Another option would be to install operable windows flanking your center window. Accent windows and patterned glass transoms above doors are typically smaller, but definitely add some visual interest.
You may have heard that casement replacement windows offer the highest energy-efficiency benefits of all operable replacement windows. But, there are some limitations. For example, if you want to add some ventilation by replacing a massive picture window, you can’t expect to install one casement window to do the job. Depending on the overall size of the opening when your existing window is removed, a better solution might be to install a dual configuration where the window units are hinged on opposing sides, creating an appearance similar to French doors.
Since casement windows are usually taller than they are wide, you could use three or four windows all hinged on the same side – or flank a double-hung window with casements. Your replacement window consultant can help you explore options available for converting a very, very big picture window to an energy-efficient package that maintains your view while allowing you to capture a refreshing breeze.
High-performance home windows, and particularly ENERGY-STAR labeled replacement windows, offer custom solutions for every window in every room of your home. Deciding whether you need a single window unit, or a primary window with accent windows, often comes down to evaluating your goals. Do you want a better view of the outside world? Are you interested in improving energy-efficiency by replacing some operable windows with fixed-pane windows? Maybe you want to give your home a fresh, bold look and feel with modern accessories, colors and textures.
As you can see, bigger isn’t always better, sometimes the best solutions come in small packages. For example, most homes don’t have wall space for bigger windows in the basement, and some styles are better suited to the space. Awning replacement windows are great in basements. For many people who want to change their current home window styles, it often comes down to combining two or more styles to achieve their decorating vision.
Our inspiration gallery shows you some of the diverse ways to capitalize on the energy-efficiency of casement replacement windows and fixed windows to manage heating and air conditioning bills without sacrificing beauty or dramatically changing the overall architectural tone. Other renovations can literally transform your home’s appearance from bland and boring to a bigger, bolder visual statement. The choice is really yours to make.
We encourage you to consider the size, shape and style of every replacement window carefully before deciding bigger is always better. We invite you to fill in the short form on this page to request more information or give us a call at (866) 609-5033 to schedule a private, in-home consultation to learn more about our portfolio of replacement window styles and accessories to update your home.
Learn Everything You Need to Know BEFORE Buying Replacement Windows