Window Design, Energy Efficiency, Materials and Maintenance

In addition to letting in light and giving you a beautiful view of your surroundings, windows are a crucial component in maintaining an energy-efficient home.

Replacing your old windows with new energy-efficient windows will have a significant impact on your heating and cooling bills.

Tighter seals and more advanced construction of many modern windows prevent cold and hot air from escaping and help maintain a more comfortable, consistent indoor climate without wasting energy.

New windows also give your home an updated look while increasing its value.

Consider the following questions to help guide you when purchasing new windows and give you a better understanding of window installation:

• What types of windows are available?
• What types of opening mechanisms do windows use?
• How do windows help improve energy efficiency?
• What materials are window frames made from?
• What steps should you take to properly maintain windows?

Windows are designed and installed primarily to provide three things: light, ventilation and a view of the outside world. While most windows accomplish all three tasks, some do so in a more energy-efficient manner than others.
Windows are generally comprised of the following:

Head: The piece that runs horizontally across the top.
Sill: The piece that runs horizontally across the bottom.
Jambs: Runs vertically up the sides.
Frame: The sill, head and jambs combine to form the frame, which may be made from various materials.
Panes: The glass pieces of a window; usually transparent, sometimes translucent or textured.
Sash: A border that frames the panes and holds them in place; made of the stiles and rails.
Rail: Horizontal part of a sash.
Stile: Vertical part of a sash.