About Us > Media > Consumer Information > Windows Play and Important Role in Remodeling

Windows Play and Important Role in Remodeling

Release date: 6/3/2002

Windows Play Important Role in Remodeling, Add Return on Investment

Scientific studies have proven that people are generally happier and healthier when they feel connected to the landscape, sunlight, and fresh air. Many wood windows purchased today are for remodeling projects—regular walls are being transformed into window walls; larger windows are taking the place of smaller ones; room additions are being added where windows dominate. Aluminum-clad wood windows offer the warmth of real wood interiors coupled with maintenance-free exteriors that every homeowner needs. Furthermore, according to a recent national survey, real estate agents estimate an 82% return on the investment when remodeling with wood windows!

Here's what you need to know about remodeling with new wood windows:

• Look for low-maintenance, aluminum-clad wood windows for their structural integrity. Be sure the windows have Low-E insulated glass installed as a standard for optimum energy efficiency.
• Think about how you want your remodel to look from the exterior. Choose a window company that offers at least 10 exterior color choices. The manufacturer should also be willing to do a custom color match if necessary. Think about choosing one color for the window frame and another color for the sash as an accent. Combining colors on the same window unit creates added contrast and complements most architectural styles.
• Be sure your window company offers a variety of exterior trim accessories to ensure a coordinated, low-maintenance window system. This is especially important when retrofitted window units need to look like originals.
• Install additional or oversized windows to make a small room seem larger. If privacy is a concern, then look for options such as low-maintenance, insulated, decorative glass which lets light in but maintains your privacy. Or, choose between-the-glass blind systems.
• Strategic placing of windows, such as at the end of a hall or room, invites a person to enter. Choose an auxiliary unit with a radius-top for maximum architectural appeal.
• Make a design statement by using different interior wood species. Instead of the standard Pine, choose Maple, Oak, Cherry, Mahogany, Walnut, or Fir to accent your interior furnishings.
• Have fun creating different window patterns by stacking or shaping sets of windows to form rectangles and squares. Use circle-tops and transoms to turn a plain, simple room into one that shows artistic imagination. Balance is key. Go with a manufacturer that offers its windows and doors in modular sizing configurations so it's easy for you to create a custom look without the custom price.
• Special treatments such as muntin bars, decorative glass, and special hardware options, can be utilized to complement furniture, cabinets, doors, trim, and the overall architecture of your home.
• If you live in an historical district and must use all-wood windows, then choose from a line of wood windows that have traditional appeal. Be sure all wood members are select kiln dried, water repellent, and preservative treated as a standard. Windows designed with a narrower profile for smoother, slimmer architectural lines while still providing energy efficiency through advanced weatherstripping systems and dual-sealed insulating glass are your best bet. Look for a choice between brickmold or flat casing for the exterior.
• Geometric and oversized windows have emerged as a growing trend. But be careful. Keep in mind the overall look you desire in your home; odd-shaped windows may not be appropriate for certain architectural styles. For example, an English Tudor home might look awkward with trapezoid windows, when instead it should employ a more traditional look with monumental single-hungs with muntin bars. This application opens up a room and brings in additional light while keeping with the overall design and appeal of the home.
• Think about adding bay or bow windows for additional sunlight while creating the look of more space. Box-bays are especially popular in kitchens because they provide the perfect place for house plants and brighten up eating areas.
• Choose a window and door company that factory-applies extension jambs and vinyl nailing fins as a standard for easy installation.
• If you plan to replace your existing windows without increasing the size of the window openings, be sure the manufacturer has custom sizing available for those renovations that require a perfect fit.
• Finally, think about cost. Get the quality you want and the options you desire at a price you can afford. Find out if your window selections are standard or if you are paying extra for things like factory-primed interiors, insulated glass, factory-applied extension jambs, or the use of preservative-treated wood. These additional costs add up and will significantly deplete your remodeling budget.