(MS) - Building a new home can be both rewarding and challenging. Dozens of people are involved in the construction of your house, and there are literally hundreds of decisions to be made. Each choice is important and plays a role in the final outcome of your home.
For most people, choosing which windows to use in the home can be a daunting task. There are considerations of what materials the windows should be made of, type of glass, shapes, sizes, styles and options. To help navigate these decisions, one of the nation's leading manufacturers of windows, offers these tips:
* Research your options. Do your homework by talking with window dealers, builders and architects to learn the types of windows they recommend.
* Select windows that complement your home's style. All the pieces of your home should create a unified look. Work with your architect and builder to select the size, style and shape of windows that enhance your home.
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* Determine the level of maintenance you prefer. Consider your climate and long-term maintenance goals when selecting the window material for your home.
* Think big. Light plays a major role in the home, and big windows - or combinations of windows - can have a positive impact on your home. Walls of windows, one of today's most popular trends, can be achieved by mixing an array of operable windows and fixed glass. These impressive focal points for the home can reach the ceiling or encompass an entire wall.
* Make window interiors work for you. Select windows with wood interiors that complement your cabinetry, flooring and accessories.
* Decide if you want custom-made or more standardized windows. A simple home design can often use standard-size windows. However, the options you gain from custom-made windows can really set your home apart.
* Beware of "bargain" windows. Many "no-name" companies produce poor quality windows that are inexpensive. Some of these companies are only in business a short time and may not be available years down the road when maintenance problems often occur.
* Plan for your future needs by incorporating universal housing design elements into your windows. People of all ages benefit from making their homes more accessible and easier to maintain. Consider easy-to-turn hand cranks at the bottom of casement windows and low-placed latches to make windows less difficult to operate.
* Make energy efficiency a priority. By researching and understanding glazing options, you can make smart decisions on the glass in your windows.
For added insulation in cold or hot climates, consider windows with Low-E coatings and argon gas-filled panes. Glazing options are available with single, double and triple panes of glass and with Low E-coated surfaces.
* Research warranties. Your long-term comfort level in the windows you select will come from purchasing products from a reputable company with strong product warranties.
Carefully review the warranties for replacement stipulations, ownership transfer details and guarantees against failure of glass, frame and sash of the window.
"There's a lot for homeowners to consider when selecting windows for the home," says Bob Eckert, director of marketing for a window and door company.
"The best single piece of advice we can offer a homeowner is to get educated. Investing time in researching the windows, warranties and manufacturer's reputation up front can save endless headaches down the road."
