Isn’t that the age-old question when it comes to buying quality windows for your home? Most homeowners think that because some windows cost more than others, they have to be the best. However, there’s a lot that can affect the quality and performance of your windows. From the material used and the type of glass to the installation, highly priced windows do not always mean the best quality window for your home. In this guide, we’ll recommend a few more things to consider before you open up your wallet on the most expensive windows available.
Are They Made for Your Climate?
This is one of the best things to look for when purchasing replacement windows for your home.
But how can you make sure your windows are perfect for your climate? We recommend learning these four terms to help you make a more informed decision before you invest in new windows.
- R-Value – This is the measure of a window’s ability to prevent heat transfer, meaning how well it keeps uncomfortable temperatures outside and maintains comfortable temperatures inside. The higher the R-value, the better the window is at preventing heat transfer.
- U-Value – Also known as U-factor, this measurement is the opposite of R-value and measures the window’s tendency to transfer heat. The lower the U-value, the better your window is at keeping heat in.
- Solar Gain (SHGC) – Solar gain indicates how much a window will heat a room when the sun is shining. Solar gain is a good thing for colder climates, but it can raise air conditioning costs during the summer. The higher the SHGC number, the greater the heat gain. In Texas, we recommend a lower SHGC so you don’t spend more money on cooling costs during our long summers.
- Wind Resistance – Wind resistance, also called air leakage or air infiltration, is the measure of how much air can get through the window. It is displayed in two numbers: one for 70 degrees Fahrenheit and one for 0 degrees Fahrenheit. The lower the number, the less air leakage occurs.
It doesn’t matter how expensive the windows are, how much energy savings they promise, or if they’re high quality, if the window is not manufactured to the climate in your area, then your home isn’t going to reap the full benefits of your window replacement. The good thing is that Clarity Windows & Doors have already done this work for you. We’ve replaced windows in thousands of homes over nearly two decades, and the Del Mar Series by Anlin is the best option for your Texas home.
Do They Come with a Warranty?
For every window company out there, there’s a different warranty. When you’re shopping for windows, it can be tough to keep all of them straight. Some cover labor but don’t cover the glass replacement. Some cover glass replacement but don’t cover parts of a window that could fail. At Clarity, we like to make this simple. We picked the Del Mar Series by Anlin because it’s the most straightforward warranty and the most inclusive. Anlin has a double-lifetime warranty that covers all parts, labor, and glass replacement. If you end up selling your home, that warranty is extended to the next homeowner should anything happen.
What Options Should You Look For?
We suggest only considering features that actually add value or performance to your windows. In Texas, you probably won’t need to look at triple-glazed windows to help keep the cold out during our milder winters. However, low-E coatings, solar reflective technology, sound suppression, and superior lock systems should all be options you focus on when buying windows. At Clarity, these options come standard in our windows, making it easier for you as a homeowner. And if you’re worried about style, we’ve got you covered. With Anlin, you can pick from a wide variety of styles and configurations, grid styles and patterns, decorative glass and frame options, as well as 12 of the most popular designer colors for your home.
When it comes to your home, Clarity Windows & Doors wants you to be 100% satisfied with your investment. If you have any questions about window replacement, please give us a call or stop by our Southlake showroom. We can walk you through your options and answer any questions to make sure you’re confident that you’re making the best decision for your home.