What to Know When Selecting New Windows

Lifetime is Denver’s most trusted window and siding company.

• Tip no. 1: Consider your environment. First and foremost, always remember that all locations have different environmental needs. Things to consider are moisture levels, altitude, and temperatures (desert vs. coastal vs. harsh winters). One window does not fit all.
• Tip no. 2: Think outside the (existing) box. One of the most common oversights is people replacing their windows for the same window. Yes, sometimes windows need to be swapped out for functionality or energy efficiency, but take a minute and consider what else you might be able to do. Is there something unique you can do instead that might work better for your design/how you use your house? 
• Tip no. 3: Consider how the light would move through your house during the day. If you’re a night owl or someone who struggles with sleep, you probably won’t want to place a window in your bedroom on the eastern wall. This is also a big deal in a child’s room. Unless you want your littles jumping out of bed right at sunrise, carefully consider that window placement.
• Tip no. 4: Keep your home’s style in mind. When you’re in the middle of a renovation, style paralysis can set in quickly once you’re faced with large investment decisions. But don’t feel intimidated. Start by identifying your home’s architectural style and taking a bit of a deep dive on Pinterest or Google to see other houses in that same aesthetic. What kind of windows do they all seem to share? Gridded? Picture? Double hung? Bay? Also take note of the color of the window frame and what you’re drawn to or what feels natural to the architecture.
• Tip no. 5: Look for appearance and performance. Good window design isn’t just about appearance. You want windows that function smoothly and easily—and will continue to do so for years to come. And you want windows that are energy efficient. 
• Tip no. 6: Plan ahead (so you don’t fall behind). Windows can have a long lead time, so do not put off ordering them—especially if you want to keep a renovation project on track. You’ll want your new windows in before you close up your walls. It makes everything easier, and helps ensure your window frames turn out clean, correct and perfect.
• Tip no. 7: Think of windows as an “investment” rather than “expensive.” New windows are not inexpensive. They are an investment. But replacing old windows can reduce high energy bills in both cold and hot climates, reduce mold in wetter climates, and generally have a positive impact on the way your home functions. Windows are also a structural component of your house and an important piece to ensuring it stays sound for years to come. 
• Tip no. 8: Invest in energy efficient windows. All Marvin windows are ENERGY STAR® certified and recommendations are given for four climate zones in the United States—the mostly heating zone (Northern); two combination heating and cooling zones (North/Central and South/Central); and a mostly cooling zone (Southern). Every qualified window will list the zones it is certified for. 
• Tip no. 9: Make sure your new windows come with a warranty. A lot of home elements look great when they’re new. But when it comes to your windows, you want something that will continue to look (and function) like new for years to come. Lifetime Windows & Siding offers a double transferable lifetime warranty that covers parts and labor.
• Tip no. 10: Research the product’s reputation. Homebuilding products are only as good as their reputation. Talk to friends and acquaintances that have installed new windows over the past few years. But make sure you include individuals who have been living with their “new” windows for a while. Do they still love the way they look, feel, and operate?

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