5 Different Types of Windows for Your Housing Needs

When having custom windows Walnut Creek built, homeowners should make it a point to explore the following 8 types of windows for their housing needs.

Awning Windows

Awning windows are ideal for homeowners who enjoy taking advantage of every last drop of sunlight. The tall windows look fantastic in regions where beautiful sceneries are present, as they open up a home to the outside world. Awning windows are traditionally hinged at the top, which means that they can only be opened by the bottom.

Transom Window

A transom window is usually installed to add a sense of richness and diversity to an otherwise basic window. Transom windows are often built in an irregular shape and made to never be opened. Since they are an add on to a traditional window, their main function is to create more light traffic.

Casement Windows

Casement windows are usually preferable in rooms that make way to spectacular views. This is because casement windows are free of any vertical or horizontal sashes and can be opened by cranking the window opener. These windows most commonly open in the outside direction and look fabulous in homes with large window opportunities.

Double Hung Windows

Double hung windows are quickly becoming the latest trend due to their beauty and practicality. Unlike single hung windows, which were designed to open from the bottom, the double hung window can be opened from both extremities. What makes these windows distinctive is the two vertical slashes that occupy their frames. Double hung windows can be used in any room as they offer a classic look.

Stationary Windows

Choosing to equip a home with a stationary window can be very rewarding, especially since it creates a very modern and chic look. Stationary windows are not commonly built to open, but instead are used as a mean of decor. In some cases, stationary windows are built into the corners of a household, in order to create a more individual look.

Picture Window

The picture window is the latest trend that is being adapted by modern households. In general, a picture window is going to be the entire size of a wall and let in the maximum amount of light into its desired space. Picture windows are idealistic in regions with stellar views.

Slider Windows

Slider windows are practical, which is why they are often adapted into the modern household. Instead of being opened outwards or inwards, slider windows function by being glided on a horizontal track.

Bay Windows

Bay windows have long since been in popular demand in both master bedrooms or the front living room area of a home. These windows offer plenty of light as well as additional space, making them ideal for smaller rooms.

Custom Windows: A List of Pros & Cons

When a homeowner makes the choice to replace their outdated windows, they are often offered custom windows Walnut Creek. Custom windows are referred as such because they are built to fit a homeowner’s window openings — to scale. Having custom windows specially manufactured can have many benefits, which is why so many homeowners are choosing to gravitate towards this choice. The following is a list of pros and cons pertaining to custom windows.

Pros

Individuality

When a homeowner makes the decisions to hire a custom window company in Walnut Creek, they are usually doing so because they want their home to display windows unlike any other house on their street. Being able to custom design one’s own windows can have many perks, a major one being that it can grant a home its own charming and unique style.

Tailored Look

Custom windows are built to perfectly fit their designated openings. This is ideal because it takes away the need to add fillers, thus making them sturdier and more effective. Custom windows offer a tailored look and take away the possibility of gaps in the window pane. This can stop bugs from entering a home amongst many other issues.

Energy Efficient

One of the main reasons why homeowners choose to replace their existing windows with custom made ones is because it can help them lower their energy consumption. Most manufactured windows aren’t going to fit a window opening to scale, leaving room for a home’s temperatures to mingle and interchange with the outside world. 

 

Cons

More Expensive

Since custom made windows are specifically tailored to the needs of a home, it isn’t surprising to find out that they are more expensive than the already available models. However, it is important to realize that sometimes spending more means spending less. When a homeowner purchases available window designs, they usually end up spending more on extra studs and heaters, as these will help the windows fit more snuggly. These extra pieces can end up making up the difference between the two options.

Manufacturing Time

There are some homeowners who are pressed for time and cannot wait for custom made windows to be fabricated. When this is the case, they often choose to purchase previously manufactured models. However, should a homeowner have more than enough time on their hands, they can have their windows measured and customly fabricated within 6-8 weeks’ time. The time range given can usually be less or more than anticipated, depending on how busy the custom windows company is at the time.

There are many factors that go into choosing between custom made and previously manufactured windows. More often than not, however, homeowners regret not spending more on custom windows, as they are proven to last longer.

What to Consider when Planning a Home’s Custom Windows

The decision to add custom windows to a home is a significant one, whether it's part of construction for a new home or it’s a renovation project on an existing Walnut Creek home. In either case it’s critical for homeowners and contractors to properly plan so they can enjoy maximum benefit, visual appeal, and efficiency. Some of the main considerations when planning custom windows Walnut Creek for a home include:

● Making the best use of natural light - Walnut Creek homeowners will want to maximize the amount of natural light that enters their home when planning their project. The right placement will fill a room with bright, natural light which reduces the need for overhead lighting and the use of lamps in a room. Using fewer lights in a room makes it more energy efficient and environmentally friendly by reducing the amount of power needed to light a room. With the right planning, the energy used in fior lighting in the summer months will be minimal. In addition to the improved energy efficiency benefits of natural light, it is also more visually appealing than artificial light is. Natural light is effective for making rooms appear larger and more spacious and it creates fewer dark corners and shadows, giving the overall appearance of a room being more open and airy. 

● The type of space - Each space in a home has different requirements when it comes to lighting, ventilation, and so on, so it’s important to consider these factors when planning your design. An office will require lots of light for reading, while bedrooms can benefit from a sliding or double hung window that can be opened to allow for airflow. A bathroom will need a privacy filter from obscured glass like standard frosted, rainglass, or glue chip glass and will likely be a smaller size, while living rooms can accommodate floor to ceiling sizes. 

● Budget - Cost is an important consideration for any renovation or new construction project. Homeowners should be mindful to tailor their plans to fit within their budget. This may mean smaller sizes, choosing a more economical glass option, or considering a casing that’s more affordable. There are a several ways for homeowners to save money on their project and get the look they want, and customizable design allows homeowners to pick and choose from a number of options to suit their budget. 

● The architecture of the home - Homeowners should consider the both the interior and exterior style of their home when planning a custom design. The geometric lines of a modern house won’t suit true arch or swept head styles, whereas these styles are perfect in a heritage-style home. Interior design is another important consideration for homeowners. Since the majority of time at home is spent indoors, it’s important that the styles chosen and design plans work with the overall look of the interior.

A Buyer’s Guide to Custom Windows

Picking the New Window

Sometimes, the only solution to updating the functionality and aesthetics of a home is by opting for a custom window fit. The very first step to a custom window job is to ask a few fundamental questions:

Does the Space in Question Require Remodeling, Replacing, or Building Anew?

When it comes to remodeling or replacing certain components, the most common solution is to order a custom window that matches the exact provided specifications. On the other hand, new constructions come with a virtually limitless range of customized window treatments.

Where Will the New Window be Installed?

This is something that absolutely must be determined before a window specialist is contracted. After all, there’s nothing in most window workers’ contracts which states that the window professional should be spending time with the customer to advise them on where they should place their new window. The orientation and placement of said window is paramount in determining what kind of window and window installation is needed. Aside from that, the amount of ventilation, light, and energy-consumption effect will mostly depend on the location of the new window.

What are the Preferred New Window Styles?

Because windows greatly influence a home’s overall aesthetic and day-to-day functionality, it’s important for homeowners to take their time when picking out their perfect window style. Of course, features and options will vary depending on the manufacturer. Additionally, country and/or state building laws are important to respect when choosing a new window.

What are the Window’s Measurements?

Unless it’s outlined in the working contract that the window professional will take care of all window measurements, it’s the homeowner’s responsibility to do so. When measuring window dimensions, it’s very important to keep in mind that each eighth of an inch is important when submitting the final measurements. After all, once a custom window is cut to size, there’s no going back.

The first step to measuring a window is to figure out the width. Measure carefully from the inside of the jamb on one side to the corresponding location on the other side of the window. The top, middle, and bottoms of the window should be carefully measured, and the homeowner should use the smallest measurement when submitting the width for the replacement window.

Once the width is established, it’s time to find the window’s height. Homeowners should measure from the very top of the window sill right to the bottom of the head jamb. It’s advised that homeowners take precise measurements of the right, middle, and left parts of the window. Once again, the shortest height measurement found should be the one that is submitted to the custom windows Walnut Creek manufacturer.

The Benefits of Adding Custom Windows to a Home

Custom windows on a Walnut Creek home complement the existing architecture and offer unique design aspects that cannot be found in stock windows. Most importantly, they contribute to the overall curb appeal of the home, and a boost in curb appeal could improve value.

The creativity of custom windows achieves a look for the owner that is truly unique to the property. In fact, it is unlikely any other home on the block will have the same windows. Those owners who are not sure if custom windows are right for their home should consider the benefits.

Increased Views and Ventilation

If a home has an ideal view, maximizing that view from the inside is critical. Also, custom windows may be designed to improve ventilation in the home, making the atmosphere more comfortable. Even during the hottest summer days, custom windows Walnut Creek home keep the interior cool and comfortable. They can also reduce the stuffiness in the atmosphere.

The Perfect Replacement for Patio Doors

Custom windows, such as floor-to-ceiling windows, are the ideal replacement for patio doors. They add drama and character to the home, and they are an innovative window choice for those that want to add additional light and air to their living areas. Also, a floor-to-ceiling window adds extravagance and may give the appearance of a plusher home.

Adding Drama to Casement Windows

Casement windows are more dramatic with circle-top windows above. A half circle on its side adds depth and additional light to the home too. They also help increase circulation in the home, maximize views, and bring natural aesthetics.

Transom Windows

A transom window is a type of custom window in Walnut Creek stores that sits above a door or larger window fixture. The transom takes the home’s design to a unique level, and when it is paired with design elements (i.e. decorative glass), it transforms the entire home’s appearance.

Creates Classic Combinations

Stock windows do not offer the same classic combinations as custom windows. When picture windows are properly paired with double-hung windows, the look is traditional and exquisite. A custom window company can help create a classic look for an older home, and keep the overall design elements while putting the homeowner’s unique personality into the design.

Picking and Choosing from Hundreds of Design Options

A custom window design allows the owner to create a design unlike anything else. There are dozens of design options and hundreds of styles that ensure that an owner’s choice does not match that of anyone else in the neighborhood.

More Affordable in the Long Run

While there is an added cost up front when an owner opts for custom windows, they will find that they save more over time. For starters, the right windows could save on energy costs in the home. Also, energy-efficient windows may qualify for rebates and tax incentives. Furthermore, an owner can get specific liners for their windows to prevent the sun from damaging items inside, reducing how often the homeowner must replace them.

Benefits of Installing Custom Windows

Custom windows Walnut Creek allow a homeowner to create the windows they need or want for their home. These windows come in various options with thousands of colors and styling options. They range from fiberglass to vinyl, wood, and aluminum.

There are benefits to using custom windows over the prefabricated versions.

Advantages of Installing Custom Windows on a Walnut Creek Home

·         Aesthetics are Improved: Stock or prefabricated windows are not aesthetically pleasing in all homes. These may be larger or smaller than the window’s size. Therefore, a gap is left and must be filled with molding or sheet rock, patched, and then painted. A custom replacement window allows a homeowner to maximize viewing area from their home’s windows without having to compromise aesthetics.

·         Improved Energy Efficiency in the Home: When custom windows are installed, they are designed to fit the exact measurement of the existing window opening; therefore, there is less chance of air leakage around the frame of that newly installed window. Air leakage around windows is a common energy-efficiency problem, and it is eliminated with the use of custom windows.

·         Installation is Easier: Installation is easier for custom windows than trying to make stock windows fit an opening. First, the installer does not have to worry about added labor with molding or sheet rock to hide gaps. Second, the window is designed specifically for that opening in the home; so, it will insert with ease. Custom windows also have fewer preparation requirements for installation, and they do not have the same material needs. Therefore, it saves the homeowner on labor costs.

·         Design Options Increase: Custom windows in Walnut Creek come in a variety of styles and design choices. These are vaster than the average stock window because the owner is in complete control of what finishes they want on their windows. Standard windows do not have anything more than stock colors and finishes. Custom windows also allow a homeowner to add a touch of personal style or change up the style of a room entirely.

·         Easier Matching: If an owner must replace just one window, they will need a custom window manufacturer to help them match to their existing windows. Custom windows are more flexible in terms of style matching than stock windows -- so it will not be as obvious that the homeowner replaced the window. For example, a window that is broken by a ball.

Custom Windows are Still Affordable

Surprisingly, custom windows are affordable. While they do cost slightly more up front than a stock window, they often have fewer labor costs and save a homeowner more money over the lifetime of the window than a stock window. Therefore, when an owner considers all the costs, they may be surprised to find that their custom windows save them more money over the 10 to 20 years they are in the home. Also, they increase the home’s value.

Beautiful Custom Windows: Walnut Creek Customers Have Multiple Options

One of the most important features of a home is its windows. Not only do they provide a view to the outdoors, they can help homeowners save a lot of money. Homes that have multiple windows provide natural light which can cut down on lighting costs, particularly during the summer months when the days are longer. The latest windows are also extremely energy efficient and can save a homeowner a large amount of money when it comes to heating and cooling costs. What custom window options are available to homeowners?

3 Custom Window Options: Their Pros and Cons

When it comes to custom windows Walnut Creek customers have multiple options. The most popular choices right now are: natural wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. What are their pros and cons?

1. Natural Wood Windows

Wood windows require a high-quality cut. This gives them a longevity that other types of windows can’t always boast. Many homes that are decades old have windows that are still in really good shape—mainly because they have wood windows. These types of windows provide some of the best insulation of any window type: up to 400 times more than steel and 1800 times more than aluminum. Since they are made of a natural substance, though, they can be prone to rot in particularly humid or rainy areas.

2. Vinyl Windows

Vinyl windows have been around since the 1970s. One of the best features about them is that they aren’t prone to rot like wood windows. They’re also extremely affordable—oftentimes half the price of wood-framed windows. Another plus is that they are incredibly energy efficient because they trap air and provide great insulation. Vinyl windows are also very versatile in that they can be fit into any space. And, for homeowners who hate to paint, vinyl windows don’t require that type of upkeep.

3. Fiberglass Windows

This option is not a particularly well-known one, but has been gaining in popularity over the past decade. A fiberglass window is glass composite; therefore, it isn’t as prone as vinyl to lose dimension. Many window experts claim that because of this they have never had to deal with a seal failure with fiberglass windows. This material has also proven to be extremely strong and energy efficient. Homeowners will also love the fact that they are maintenance-free and are oftentimes one of the cheaper options. Unlike vinyl, fiberglass can be painted and it isn’t as likely to warp.

Custom Windows: A Beautiful and Energy Efficient Investment

Whether building a new home or remodeling an existing one, new windows will be necessary at some point during the home owning experience. Purchasing high-quality, custom windows in Walnut Creek allow homeowners to achieve a gorgeous finishing touch to their beautiful home. It will also save them money in the long run due to the energy efficiency of the latest models. Whatever type they choose—wood, fiberglass, or vinyl—homeowners can rest assured that their custom windows will add value and aesthetic appeal to their home.