4 Key Factors Driving Replacement Window Performance on Long Island

What are good replacement windows on Long Island? That is an excellent question, and one many people try to answer before they go to a showroom or schedule an in-home consultation with a replacement window dealer. There are so many factors that go into evaluating what makes a good replacement window, it is hard to cover everything in one blog post. That’s one of the reasons we published our free, 28-page replacement window guide for Long Island residents. However, there are four key factors that drive replacement window performance. This Renewal by Andersen article will cover those key drivers to help you get a better understanding of what to look for in your quests for high-quality windows for your home.

How Do I Choose a High Performance Window Frame?

Any professional optician will tell you that in order to have the best vision with prescription eyewear, you have to start with a good frame. If you choose a frame size that is too small for your face, you’ll have to move your head around to get a clear view of the world around you. Similarly, overly large frames often result in distortion, so what you see isn’t necessarily what is really out there. Once you have the best frame for your vision, you can move on to finding the best shapes, lens treatments and colors for your face and personal style.

In the replacement window world, choosing the wrong frame material could mean you don’t enjoy the benefits of effectively managing heat transfer or the highest insulating properties. You may find that some frame materials are great insulators, but they require a ton of maintenance (wood) or they only come in a handful of colors (vinyl).

If you’re like most people, you want not only superior performing windows, and expect your replacement windows will look fabulous and complement the architectural features and colors of your home. Comparing the pros and cons of the different types of frame material will ensure you get the performance and appearance you deserve.

What Are Good Replacement Window Glass Features?

To ensure you select the correct replacement window glass, read the ENERGY-STAR labels. You’re looking for window glass that performs well in our climate which has four distinct seasons. By carefully reading the labels, you can choose the best low-E glass option for those windows that get plenty of direct sunlight and those that may be overshadowed by tall trees or buildings close by. A good replacement window can be customized to your unique neighborhood, architecture and lifestyle preferences. At the very least, look for double-pane window units built with gas between the glass panels to enhance insulation and limit noise transfer. Also, the lower the SHGC (the number demonstrating how much heat passing into the home through the window) and U-factor (which measures heat loss potential) numbers, the better, because a low number means your new windows may be able to help you reduce heating and cooling bills.

Is One Replacement Window Style Better Than Others?

If you’re looking for the highest energy-efficiency ratings, look at double-hung, casements and fixed windows. Here’s why we recommend those three options for Long Island homeowners.

1. Double-hung windows have two movable sash – one slides up, and the other lowers for ventilation. They are very popular on Long Island and work well in virtually every home style from colonial to ranch to cape cod.
2. Casement windows are the most energy-efficient operable window we offer. The compression closure design means less friction on weather-stripping than windows that slide across air and moisture blocking weather-stripping. Crank-type windows may need some minor maintenance to keep the mechanism opening smoothly after many years of service.
3. Fixed windows have permanent seals and no movable parts that may eventually develop leaks over time with daily use. Fixed windows also offer Long Island homeowners other advantages when it comes to creating beautiful curb appeal. For example, they can be built in almost any shape from square and boxy, to attention-grabbing geometric shapes like triangles, trapezoids and circles.

Window Frames, Glass, Style – What Else Drives Performance?

Perhaps the most important factor that impacts replacement window performance comes at the end of your home renovation journey. Without an exceptional installation, even precisely built replacement windows will never perform as intended. That’s one reason we always provide professional technicians to install our replacement windows at no additional cost. And, we guarantee the process, the parts, and the labor with our exclusive 20/2/10 warranty package.

Finding Good Replacement Windows Is Easier With Renewal by Andersen of Long Island

Does that answer your questions about how to identify good replacement windows and which features you should look for when comparing brands? If not, please fill in the short form on this page or give us a call at (866) 609-5033 to schedule a free, in-home consultation to discuss Renewal by Andersen key performance features for Long Island homeowners.

Check out this post for more information on replacement window energy efficiency.

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LEARN …

• The Difference Between Replacement and New Construction Windows!
• The Different Kinds of Frame Materials and What That Means to Your Windows’ Performance and Longevity!
• How the Right Glass Can Save You Money on Your Heating & Cooling Bills!
• The Critical Role Proper Installation Plays in the Performance, Durability and Warranty of Your New Replacement Windows!
• What Features and Options are Important to You and What Role They Play in Your Ultimate Satisfaction Today, and for as Long As You Live in Your Home!