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When considering replacement windows for your New Jersey or New York home, it is important to look at the full portfolio of styles available. There’s a reason reputable window dealers, including Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro, don’t automatically push one style over another. Every room in your home has unique characteristics. How you use each room plays a part and what you expect from your windows also influences the style preferences that are right for you.
Here are three things to consider as you compare replacement window styles.
Insulated, inoperable (fixed) windows are the most energy-efficient windows available. Because these double-pane windows don’t open and close, there is no potential for air gaps between moving components. Large picture windows usher in abundant light, which reduces the need for artificial light indoors. However, it’s not usually recommended to replace all operable windows with fixed windows. For one thing, the air quality inside your home would drop significantly if you could never open the windows to bring in healthy outdoor air and for another, operable windows can provide a means of escape in the event of an emergency.
Some styles, like casement and awning windows, offer nearly the same energy-saving benefits as a fixed window, without compromising air quality. Because the casement window sash compresses against weather-stripping rather than sliding across it, there is less friction, and less potential for breakdown. The design allows homeowners to open the window fully, efficiently capturing airflow.
A combination of operable and fixed windows is the best solution for maintaining healthy air quality and maximizing energy-efficiency. Fixed accent windows can be used to balance your goals. Installing a row of casement or awning windows above or below a large picture window allows ventilation without significantly lowering efficiency. Likewise, inoperable sidelights that don’t open may flank a double-hung or sliding window primarily used for airing out your home.
If you have owned a home in New Jersey or metropolitan New York for very long, you know there are hundreds of regulations about almost everything. Home windows are no exception. The good news is you don’t have to worry about buying a permit when you update your home with replacement windows, as long as they are installed by the dealer. On the other hand, you should know that building codes require every home have adequate egress – that simply means you must have windows (or doors) that provide a safe “path to exit” for every room in an emergency.
The same design features that allow you to lift out panels in sliders to make cleaning easier, also allow fast removal for exit. Any operable window that has an opening at least 20 inches wide and 24 inches tall will provide safe exit for most family members.
Thinking about installing a transom above an entrance door or another window? Transom design is flexible. Although there aren’t strict industry standards specifically for transoms, we mention this style because some homeowners assume all transoms don’t open. You can choose a variety of glass types, including patterned glass, as well as decide whether you want a non-operable window sash or a glazed frame operable window.
We understand your family’s safety and security is important to you. Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro home improvement products are designed, manufactured and installed by professionals committed to increasing the comfort, safety and energy-efficiency in your home. We invite you to schedule a personal home-consultation today to learn more about our replacement windows and patio doors today. Simply fill in the short form on this page or dial (866) 609-5033 to reach a representative.
Learn Everything You Need to Know BEFORE Buying Replacement Windows