While cost is often the primary concern for replacement windows in the home, there are often other factors that must also be taken into consideration when choosing new house windows. Read about what to keep in mind when choosing replacement windows.

Energy-Efficient Windows

“Going green” is a relatively common idea these days, and energy-efficient windows are no exception from this trend. Energy-efficient windows offer homeowners the following benefits:

• Cooling season savings: In regions with warm climates, energy-efficient windows prevent significant solar heat gain, while simultaneously providing clear views and more sunlight.
• Easy maintenance: Energy-efficient windows don’t need to be painted like other new house windows, and they hold up well against the elements.
• Heating season savings: In regions with cold climates, energy-efficient windows have a significant impact on heat loss, discomfort and condensation problems, unlike less efficient replacement windows.
• Tax credits: You may earn tax credits with the purchase and inspected installation of eligible energy-efficient windows, doors and skylights.
• Utility program benefits: Utility companies may offer savings and benefits to homeowners who install replacement windows that are energy efficient.

Home Window Security

Replacement windows are typically made of glass and are, therefore, more easily broken into than doors. However, there are various precautions that you can take to help enhance your home window security. Consider the following:

• Home security or crime prevention decals may serve as deterrents when attached to ground floor windows.
• Replacement windows with polycarbonate or tempered glass are harder to break than traditional glass, but more expensive.
• Secondary blocking devices, such as locks on all windows, especially on ground floors and in bedrooms, can provide additional home window security.
• Various companies specialize in home window security, and offer new house windows proofed against everything from burglars to bullets.
• Window air conditioning units should not be removable from the outside, blocking window access from the home’s exterior.

Noise Reduction Windows

Perhaps your neighbor’s dog barks too loud. Maybe you’re tired of hearing every truck that rolls by your house. Regardless of the specific noises you’d like to block, noise reduction windows can probably help.

In order to reduce the amount of noise entering your home, you could install actual noise reduction windows, which can be costly. Or, you can consider the following options:

• Install a non-rated hardware store window on the interior frame to block sound by trapping dead air inside.
• Install a sound-rated interior window on the inside frame. Noise control professionals use and install sound-rated interior windows.
• Install a storm window on the outside frame to assist in noise reduction, depending on the window’s thickness and the quality of the seal.
• Install dampening plastic film to windowpanes to reduce your replacement windows’ ability to respond to sound vibrations.