Window Shopping
What's new
in today's windows

BY BEVERLY BURMEIER

Windows have moved beyond the basic function of regulating light and air into an important design element of today’s homes. Windows provide a visual connection between indoor living spaces and the outdoors, and whether you’re outfitting new construction or replacing existing windows, you’ll be inspired by the many options available.

Web sites for major window and door distributors like Andersen (www.andersenwindows.com), Jeld-Wen
(www.jeld-wen.com), and Marvin (www.marvin.com) provide descriptions to help you select the best windows for your needs. Start by understanding configurations such as these:

• Casement – Opens and closes from the side by means of a crank handle; sleek and smooth.

• Awning – Hinged at the top, opens out from the bottom using a crank; circulates air without exposing room
to elements like light rain.

• Single-hung – Lower half only opens; common for basic installations.

• Double-hung – Both halves open (one sash slides vertically past another); high energy efficiency; classic.

• Gliding – One sash slides horizontally past the other on a window sill; perfect for overlooking deck or patio.

• Picture and transom – Stationary windows designed to match double-hung or casement windows.

• Bay – Large picture window flanked by smaller windows set at an angle; outward projecting design allows creation of a window seat indoors.

• Bow – Any number of double-hung or casement windows joined together to create a graceful curve.

• Specialty windows – Fixed glass with curved shapes or angles other than 90 degrees (oval, octagon, arch); also glass blocks and stained glass options.

Go contemporary
A recent survey by Jeld-Wen reveals that today’s homeowners prefer contemporary styles. Owners seek to open living areas, incorporate tall spaces and create sleek looks with windows — and doors with windows. Jeld-Wen offers practical ideas for incorporating modern details even if you’re updating an older structure:

• If you already have a patio door, make the opening taller and wider. New styles virtually disappear or can be set to meet at a 90-degree corner without a structural post.

• Interior doors with glass are popular updates. These help make visual connections between rooms and allow natural light as well as people to pass through.

• Newer replacements are easily installed with minimal impact on the home’s exterior. Even wood windows
can be replaced by pocket windows that fit into existing spaces, regardless of original brand. Double-hung windows can save as much as 60 percent on material, time and labor costs when compared to traditional full window replacements.

Repair or replace?
Other than during a home redesign, how can you determine whether to repair existing windows or start fresh? Make replacement a priority if you notice fog or moisture between glass panes, which indicates the seal is broken and efficiency compromised.

Moisture or condensation on window glass or window sill can lead to mold growth. Wood decay from termites or harsh elements requires replacement. Windows that don’t fit tightly (usually older singlepane windows) let in drafts or excess noise, resulting in higher energy bills as well as annoyance. Problems opening or closing can be a safety issue and an inconvenience.

Melding function and style Americans spend up to 90 percent of our time indoors, but we still need fresh air. Weather permitting, open windows at least 30 minutes twice a day. Windows with Jeld-Wen’s Phantom Screens Technology have retractable screens on a removable track for easy cleaning, a built-in latch system to hold screens in place and a sheer fiberglass mesh screen for bug control and ventilation.

Protect furniture, carpets and wall art with energy-efficient low-emittance (Low-E) glass. This blocks up to 85 percent of harmful ultraviolet rays that cause fading on interior furnishings while keeping heat out in summer and holding it in during winter. Jeld-Wen’s Neat Glass facilitates cleaning by including a layer of titanium dioxide that reacts with the sun’s UV rays to break down and loosen dirt, to be washed away by rainwater. A thin layer of silicon dioxide lets water disperse evenly and evaporate quickly to reduce spots.

Impact-resistant glass protects against intruders and fire but won’t shatter under pressure. The Mag-Lock from Jeld- Wen is a magnetic, one-touch automatic lock that is easy to operate and tamper-resistant. Decorative opaque glass materials bring in natural light while maintaining privacy.

If you’re looking for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification from the U. S. Green Building Council, check out Fibrex, a new generation material made of reclaimed wood fiber from Andersen’s manufacturing operations. It has superior thermal insulating properties; resists rot, decay and fungal growth; won’t flake, blister, pit or corrode; and requires no wood preservative treatment or paint. Marvin’s bold exterior extruded aluminum-clad windows are available in 19 hues and multiple casings and sills. When you have unusual or difficult problems, consult with Marvin’s specialty division, Signature Products and Services.