New and Replacement Energy-Efficient Windows: The Best Windows For Your Home and Business
New and Replacement Energy-Efficient Windows: The Best Windows For Your Home and Business
Your Guide to Choosing New and Replacement Windows
Architect’s Choice offers an extensive range of new and replacement energy-efficient windows for your home or commercial property. We are proud to carry industry leading window brands that exceed our customer’s expectations for design, quality, and performance. Architect’s Choice is a full-service dealer for top window brands like Andersen Windows & Doors, Eagle (E-Series by Andersen), plus Atrium Windows and Doors, and Solaris.
As you prepare to replace your windows we encourage you to review the parts of a window and the Architect’s Choice window selection guide below to help determine which windows will best meet your style, maintenance, and budget requirements. Additionally, our knowledgeable window experts are available to answer any questions about today’s new or replacement window choices – contact us!
Window Frame Materials
Windows are available in several choices of window frame materials. At Architect’s Choice, we carry all vinyl windows, vinyl-clad windows, aluminum windows, and aluminum-clad windows as well as all wood windows, wood-clad windows, and Fibrex® composite windows. As you consider the range of materials for quality windows, you’ll also want to determine your budget, durability requirements, and design plans to help determine what window is best for you. For example, do you want a variety of color choices or to be able to paint the windows? Do you want a clean design or windows with architectural details? What efforts are you willing to take in maintaining your windows?
Vinyl windows are energy efficient, resist warping and rotting, and are more affordable. While they are low maintenance, the color options available for vinyl windows may be limited.
Wood windows are classic and beautiful but they require proper maintenance and can warp and rot over time. Wood windows are valued for their natural beauty and energy efficiency, and with proper maintenance wood frame windows can last a long time.
Composite windows are comparable to wood but they are more resistant to the elements and will not rot or decay. Composite windows can be painted or stained and are available in textures that mimic real wood.
Aluminum windows are affordable and available in a variety of sizes but are not among the most energy efficient. While aluminum windows can be finished in a variety of styles and colors, they tend to have a more modern look and may not suit all architectural styles, particularly those favoring traditional aesthetics.
Vinyl windows are energy efficient, resist warping and rotting, and are more affordable. While they are low maintenance, the color options available for vinyl windows may be limited.
Wood windows are classic and beautiful but they require proper maintenance and can warp and rot over time. Wood windows are valued for their natural beauty and energy efficiency, and with proper maintenance wood frame windows can last a long time.
Composite windows are comparable to wood but they are more resistant to the elements and will not rot or decay. Composite windows can be painted or stained and are available in textures that mimic real wood.
Aluminum windows are affordable and available in a variety of sizes but are not among the most energy efficient. While aluminum windows can be finished in a variety of styles and colors, they tend to have a more modern look and may not suit all architectural styles, particularly those favoring traditional aesthetics.
Window Styles
At Architect’s Choice, we have many window styles available to choose from. Our team of window professionals can help you discover the best window style for your new home, existing home, or commercial business. We consider your space, desire for natural light and ventilation, design expectations, and budget when guiding your window selection. Be sure to stop by the Architect’s Choice window showroom in Toledo to see our complete range of window types and styles.
These provide a cost-effective choice for windows. “Single hung” means only half of the window is able to be opened and “double hung” means both sections of the window can be opened.
Casement windows are appreciated for the natural light they allow in. The full panel of glass can be opened with a crank, and they can be grouped together with other casement windows for a modern, dramatic design impact.
Awning windows open from the bottom. Because awning windows can remain open when it rains, they are often installed higher on walls.
These unique windows extend a room’s square footage. For the best ventilation, a combination of double- and single-hung windows in the center of a window design, with casement windows on the side, provide excellent sunlight and views.
Installing a pass-through window on an exterior wall can be practical if you use outdoor spaces for entertaining. Pass-through windows (sometimes called pass-thru windows) are commonly installed in kitchens or out buildings such as pool houses and yard sheds.
Picture windows are larger windows that traditionally don’t open. They allow for expansive, unobstructed views.
Arched windows, oval windows, and round windows as well as mini bay windows – sometimes called garden windows – are all examples of the range of specialty windows offered at Architect’s Choice. While some specialty windows open, some don’t. Specialty windows help bring a unique custom look to your home or office.
Window Accents
We have a variety of window accents that will set your home or business windows apart. You can add window accents that are purely functional, or you can make a design statement by adding a unique grille design and choosing hardware finishes that are striking. We will create the exact window look you are wanting with our selection of window accents and accessories.
- Grilles – Grilles are narrow strips of material, whether it be metal, wood, or vinyl, that are patterned to create window panes or decorative accents. They can be set in a variety of configurations.
- Window hardware – Window hardware and accents can be purely decorative or operational including locks, handles, or cranks.
- Interior blinds – Blinds between panes of insulated glass offer privacy and can be controlled easily to bring in more light.
- Frame color – Depending on your environment or climate, the frame around a window can vary in color and finish to enhance your interior design and camouflage dirt. Frames come in vibrant colors for a bold look.
- Exterior trim – You can add an optional exterior trim to match the style of your home and create a distinct finish.
Window Energy Performance Ratings
Today, the energy performance of your new or replacement windows is an important consideration. The number or level associated with these ratings provides guidance as to how much heat and light can pass through the window. Architect’s Choice has a multitude of energy efficient windows that can help improve energy efficiency and lower your utility costs.
Window Glass U-Factor – The U-Factor rating indicates the rate at which heat flows through a window or patio door due to the difference between indoor and outdoor air temperatures. Ranging from 0.2–1.2, the lower the U-Factor, the better the insulation value.
Window Glass R-Factor – The R-Factor rating indicates the thermal resistance of the window or patio door glass to heat flow. The higher the R-Value, the more energy efficient the product is.
Window Sizing
Standard sizing – Windows come in many standard sizes ranging from 24-48 inches wide and 36-72 inches high for double-hung and single-hung windows. Picture windows often come in standard widths of 34, 36, 48, 60, or 72 inches and standard heights of 36, 48, or 60 inches. Sliding windows are commonly 36-72 inches wide and 48-60 inches high.
Custom sizing – When you want design flexibility, you can custom order a window. Custom windows enhance aesthetics, provide superior energy efficiciency, and increase property value. They can be tailored to specific architectural needs and design preferences, providing a unique and personalized touch to a home.
Our sales team will walk you through dimensions to ensure you have the window to meet your needs.
The Trusted Brands of Architect’s Choice
We offer industry leading brands for new construction and remodeling projects or replacement window projects. Visit our window showroom in Toledo to begin your window shopping experience. Architect’s Choice is a full-service dealer for top brands, including Andersen Windows & Doors, Eagle (E-Series by Andersen), and Atrium Windows and Doors.
We invite you to find your inspiration on the product gallery pages from these best home window brand choices available in the Toledo, Northwest Ohio, and Southeast Michigan area.
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