Photo Courtesy of All Weather Windows
Windows are our connections to the outside world. They give us the opportunity to admire the many wonders of the world while seated comfortably in our homes. My home is located 20 minutes outside the city therefore the starlit sky looks a little different from the ones we see in the city. It looks like little diamonds inset into a black silk. There are nights where I look out my window and admire the view and the view gives me a serene and peaceful feeling.
Many homeowners see windows as just another set of glass, stuck to a wall as to keep unwanted critters out of our homes but a window is much more than that. It’s an accessory in a room and many times acts as a focal point. Have you ever heard the term, they paid for the view? This is where a home or condo is sold at a higher price because of the stunning view you see from the home. Quite simply said, this view would not be seen without a window. And I’m not talking about an old ratty window where you wonder if you are heating your home or possibly the driveway, front yard and backyard as well. I’m talking about a state of the art window like the ones I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand from All Weather Windows.
While speaking with Aaron Latimer, the VP of Marketing for All Weather Windows I was astonished by the wealth of options in windows today. They come in every shape and size, are fully customizable and the best part is that they are energy efficient.
Aren’t we all tired of paying too much on our energy bills? I think so. When upgrading our windows, we should see this purchase as an investment. First and foremost, upgrading your old windows to newer models will likely increase the value of your home and its esthetic appeal. One of the things that homeowners look for when buying a home is leaky windows so be sure to consider windows that are built with a V-weld technology using apex alloy. This is a European technology that has been adopted by All Weather Windows. The process includes the welding of the corners of the windows as to avoid future window leaks.
When planning for the future of our homes, we must be educated buyers. The most intimidating part of window shopping is the overwhelming options. Therefore I’ve asked Aaron to share with us his years of experience in an easy step by step process.
Step 1: Choose your texture. Do you want wood or PVC? There are advantages to both options depending on your preference. If you are looking for a product that you can customize and stain to match your overall décor, then wood is best. If you are looking for more of a maintenance free product that you won’t have to repaint or stain after a certain amount of years, then look at PVC. Both materials are great and have their place in the market.
Step 2: Choosing an operating style. Windows today come with a variety of operating styles. Some of the most popular styles include casement and glider systems. Again, each one has its use depending on the mandate for the space. If you are concerned about energy efficiency, opt for the casement. Its locking mechanism ensures that the window has a tight seal as to offer utmost energy efficiency.
Step 3: The glass. Did you know that you can get glass that will help keep the heat out during the hot summer months. All Weather Windows offers a glass coating that help lower the passive solar heat gain. Therefore, if you have large windows on the South or West side of your home, this is a crucial option. Some homeowners when designing their homes will actually place trees on the South and West side of the property as to offer shade to the windows to help eliminate heat coming in through the sun’s rays. If you are doing a renovation project and your external landscape elements do not offer shade to that side of the home, look at the glass coating option. It will help alleviate the heat in your home during the summer months.
Step 4: Choose your grill. Now comes the creative part. You can choose from a variety of grill options that complement your home’s outside and inside design.
Step 5: Choose your exterior colour option. Depending on the type of window chosen, you might be given outdoor colour choices. This is a great way to add a splash of colour to your existing home.
Remember, when measuring your windows to replace them with new ones, be sure to consult with a contractor who will be able to advise you on the best size and style of window. Enjoy your renovation project!
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