When purchasing a newly built home, window selection is typically managed by the builder. However, if you’re overseeing the design and construction process yourself, choosing the right windows can be more challenging than anticipated. Here’s what you need to consider.
Top Choices for New Construction Windows
Fortunately, there are numerous excellent options for new construction windows, including a variety of reputable brands and innovative designs.
Key factors to prioritize in your selection are low maintenance and energy efficiency. Low maintenance windows reduce the need for frequent upkeep, saving you time and money in the long run.
Energy-efficient windows help lower your utility bills by improving insulation and reducing energy consumption. If you’re located in Toronto, you might want to explore options from companies specializing in windows and doors Toronto for their range of high-quality, efficient, and low-maintenance products.
Choosing the Right Window Type
Selecting the right window type is crucial when it comes to new construction homes. Various styles cater to different home designs and specific areas within a house. Here are some popular window types to consider:
- Picture Windows: These large, fixed-pane windows do not open, making them ideal for spaces where abundant natural light is desired without the need for ventilation.
- Bay Windows: Extending out from the home, bay windows create a three-dimensional effect. They are often used to create cozy nooks for dining, breakfast areas, or window seats in living rooms or libraries.
- Casement Windows: Also known as crank-out windows, casement windows are a popular choice for new construction homes. They open outward, providing excellent ventilation and ease of use.
- Single and Double-Hung Windows: These versatile styles offer a variety of size and design options, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for different areas of your home. Single-hung windows have one movable sash, while double-hung windows have two, offering greater flexibility for ventilation.
Selecting the Window Material
After deciding on the size and style of your new construction windows, the next step is to choose the window material. Here are some popular options to consider:
- Vinyl: Also known as PVC, vinyl is a highly favored choice in modern construction. These windows come in a wide array of colors and require no painting or staining. For longevity, opt for UV-stabilized vinyl windows, which resist fading and wear from sunlight.
- Wood: Wood frames offer a classic, warm, and stylish look. High-quality wood windows are durable but demand significant maintenance over time. Wood may not be ideal for extremely dry or wet climates due to weathering.
- Fiberglass: As a newer option, fiberglass windows are available in various colors, are lightweight, and very strong. However, they tend to be more expensive than other materials.
- Aluminum: Known for its durability, aluminum is lightweight and strong, making it a reliable choice. While long-lasting, aluminum windows are not the most cost-effective and require more maintenance compared to some other materials.
Standard Window Sizes
To keep your budget in check when selecting new construction windows, opting for standard sizes is a smart move. Standard sizes vary by manufacturer and style, but choosing from a window catalog ensures you won’t need custom carpentry or specialized manufacturing for your selections.
Considering Energy Efficiency
When building a new home, selecting energy-efficient windows is beneficial for both your comfort and the environment. These windows are designed to be airtight and watertight, providing excellent insulation against heat and cold.
Benefits of energy-efficient windows include:
Year-Round Comfort:
Your home maintains a more consistent temperature, making it comfortable in every season.
Cost Savings:
Reduced energy consumption leads to lower heating and cooling bills.
Noise Reduction:
Well-insulated windows help dampen outside noise, creating a quieter, more peaceful living environment.
Condensation Prevention:
Modern double-glazed windows minimize condensation, preventing potential water damage.
- UV Protection: Many new windows are UV resistant, offering added safety for your family and protecting your home’s interior from sun damage.
Key Features of Energy-Efficient New Construction Windows
When shopping for energy-efficient windows for new construction, consider the following important features:
- High-Quality Frame Material: Choose materials that are weatherproof and provide good insulation.
- Multiple Panes: Look for windows with multiple panes and spacers to maintain a gap between them, which is crucial for insulation. Higher-quality windows may fill this gap with gases that are less conductive of heat and cold.
- Low-E Glass: Opt for “low-E” glass, which filters out UVA and UVB light for better energy efficiency and protection.
What to Expect During Window Installation
Selecting your new construction windows should be a straightforward milestone in your home-building process. However, several key factors could potentially cause delays. Here are important considerations:
Lead Times
Two main lead times can impact your new construction windows: the manufacturer’s lead times and the installer’s lead times. Custom or non-stock windows may take longer to manufacture and ship, leading to potential delays. Reputable window installers often have a schedule of clients whose windows are installed in sequence. Seasonal demand and other factors can also affect these timelines. Therefore, always request an estimate of how long it will take before they can be on site.
Installation Day
Once installation day arrives, you’ll be pleased to know that the process moves swiftly. A two-person installation crew can typically install up to ten windows per day, so most homes will be completed in two to three days. To avoid delays, ensure your home builder is fully aware of the exact window sizes and their designated locations to prevent any framing issues.
Wrapping Up
Payment for new construction windows usually occurs in two parts: an initial payment when the windows are ordered and a final payment upon completion. After installation, you’ll likely need to sign off on the work, at which point you’ll receive your warranty and any related paperwork. If you’re working with a home builder or contractor, expect to receive all documentation at the end of the project.
Aftercare and Maintenance
The maintenance required for your windows depends largely on the material. Vinyl and fiberglass windows typically only need occasional cleaning, while wood windows require more frequent and detailed maintenance. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines to prolong the life of your windows and maintain your warranty.
Cost of New Construction Windows
Given the many variables involved, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact cost of new construction windows. The best approach is to contact several reputable companies in your area, provide them with detailed information, and request quotes. This will allow you to compare prices and select the best option for your budget.
Where to Buy New Construction Windows
You have several options for purchasing new construction windows. Big box stores are perfect for standard window sizes and quick turnaround times. Window distributors or manufacturers offer more variety and potentially better pricing when purchased directly from these sources. Additionally, many window installers can provide quotes for both supply and installation, streamlining the process for you.
