 As a homeowner shopping for replacement windows, you might find yourself overwhelmed by a flood of customization choices. From style, to frame color, to grids, it can be challenging to figure out which decisions are the most critical. For most homeowners, the most important decision is that of glass type. This is especially true if you’re concerned about energy efficiency (and who isn’t?), as 70% of energy loss in the home is due to windows and doors. Low-E is an innovative solution that improves energy efficiency in the home.
To understand the benefits of Low-E glass windows and what makes them energy efficient, we’ll cover:
What are Low-E glass windows & what makes them energy efficient? Put simply, Low-E glass keeps unwanted light rays from entering the home, while preventing interior heat and air conditioning from exiting. It does all of this without blocking natural light from passing through. To really understand how this energy efficient window coating works, we need to first explore the solar energy spectrum and the types of light involved. The three important light rays we’ll discuss are ultraviolet (UV) light, visible light, and infrared light. These light rays all occupy different parts of the solar energy spectrum, and are differentiated by their respective wavelengths.
While this may seem like an unasked for science lesson, the knowledge of these three light types is critical to understanding the benefits of Low-E windows. Another key concept is emissivity, which is how well a material radiates energy. When it comes to windows, the lower the emissivity, the higher the energy efficiency. That’s where low emissivity (or Low-E) coating factors in. This coating, which is thinner than a strand of hair, limits the emissivity of the glass. Low-E glass prevents ultraviolet and infrared light from passing through the glass, into the home. At the same time, it maintains a stable temperature in your home by reflecting interior heat energy (whether it’s cool or warm), back inside. All of these factors make these windows extremely energy efficient. For one, they prevent solar heat from entering the home, which means less of a need for air conditioning in the warmer months. Additionally, the reflective insulation properties cause them to radiate interior temperatures, whether cool or hot, back into the home. This means your house stays cool in the summer, and there is no need to blast your heater in the winter months. In summary, the benefits of Low-E glass windows are:
Low-E Coating Performance Indicators There are four different measures that indicate the effectiveness of Low-E glass, according to Vitro Architectural Glass:
Types of Low-E Glass Coating There are two variations of Low-E glass coating, known as passive Low-E and solar control Low-E:
Which Low-E glass coating type is best for my climate? After covering the two types of Low-E coating, you’re likely wondering which is the right choice for your home. The most influential factor in making this decision is your local climate. Let’s explore which coating is best for each climate:
Do my windows have Low-E glass coating? It’s been over 35 years since this coating revolutionized the window industry, so there’s a chance that your home already has Low-E windows. To determine if this is the case, you can do the following:
If you’re starting to explore a window replacement, and the many options available to you, it’s important to recognize the important of the glass type you choose. Window class has a major impact on the energy efficiency on your entire home. While Low-E coated windows are often slightly more expensive, the potential energy savings that accompany them make the investment worthwhile.  As winter approaches you’re probably noticing more of a draft coming from your old windows. If they haven’t been replaced in many years, chances are you’re using only single or double pane windows.
So what’s the deal with triple pane windows? These are the most advanced windows on the market with three panes of glass, instead of two or just one. Each of the panes has a spacer included to keep the distance between each pane uniform. The windows are also sealed airtight with pockets of gas filling the space for insulation. As technology in replacement windows advances, triple pane has become more of the norm than a luxury product. Triple Pane Window Costs Triple pane windows are priced a little higher, but well worth the expense. How much do triple pane windows cost? The average cost for a replacement triple pane window installation is $700 per triple paned window, depending on other factors like size, material, and style. Because of the additional pane of glass and more complex construction and installation, you can expect to pay at least 10 to 15% more for triple pane vs double pane windows. The windows pay for themselves over lifespan through energy cost savings (more on this below.) Triple Pane Window Costs By Brand Here's a look at triple pane window costs from popular brands for a standard vinyl double hung window: Marvin: Triple pane windows from Marvin cost an average of $800 including installation. Harvey: Triple pane windows from Harvey cost an average of $600 including installation. Simonton: Triple pane windows from Simonton cost an average of $500 including installation. Pella: Triple pane windows from Pella cost an average of $650 including installation. Andersen: Triple pane windows from Andersen an average of $700 including installation. Benefits of triple glazing There are a few core benefits of triple pane windows. Greater noise reduction. Triple pane windows are the best on the market and decreasing outside street noise from humans, traffic, nature, and more. If you live in a city, this could be a major lifestyle boost. Better insulation. Triple pane windows may pay for themselves in the end thanks to advanced insulting properties. Your energy system will need to work less to keep the inside temperature regulated. No more drafts, and no more high energy bills. Sounds good to us! Cost savings. In cold regions, such as New England, triple pane windows can save 2 to 3 percent of your heating bill, compared with double-glazed windows. That will add up to cover the extra cost for the windows in about 20 years. Reduce condensation. Triple glazing will reduce condensation, which will allow you to maintain a higher indoor relative humidity in cold weather. If you don’t want to pay for triple pane windows throughout the house, get them for the north- and east-facing rooms, where you’ll get the biggest payoff. Added value. Triple glazed windows add value to your home and you can recoup some of the cost when selling your home. Double pane vs. Triple pane windows OK, so now you know that triple pane windows are a bit more expensive than the other options available, especially the common double pane windows. So what’s the difference and how do you decide? First, how long will you be in your home? It’s important to consider the cost outlay now vs. the savings over time. Staying for 20 plus years? Triple pane. Moving out soon? Double pane. There are many falsehoods you’ll hear about triple pane, too. For instance they aren’t too heavy to fit in a traditional window frame. No worries there. Triple pane windows will operate with the same ease as double pane windows. They also will not have seal failure more often than double pane. All new windows will come with a warranty that will cover you in the event of any type of failure. In fact, triple pane windows have a better U-factor than double pane and 20-30% better on energy efficiency — that’s a substantial margin. Triple pane will also have better visible transmission figures. While these statistics will vary according to where you live and the exact windows your home has, you can find out more about your windows’ energy efficient performance by checking out their Energy Star rating. They will also have better SHGC ratings as they tend to have two surfaces coated with a low-e coating. These coatings will leave you with a lower visible transmission rating meaning it will typically be darker in a home with triple pane windows. Are these increases in efficiency worth the trade off of increased cost and decreased light? Only you can decide that, but with the cost difference likely being lower than you might expect more folks are picking triple pane options. Lastly, the cost difference between double pane and triple pane windows is not too bad. Triple pane windows cost an average of $100 more per window than double pane. Interested in learning more about triple pane windows? Talk with a Boston Renovation expert today by entering your project details or picking up the phone and calling us at 978.697.4625. How Boston Renovation's Process Works 1: We visit your home. After answering a few questions online, our licensed expert will complete a detailed project report in-person. 2: We get you 3 bids in 3 days. Vetted local window contractors submit bids based on your report. Our expert helps you translate and compare them. 3: Meet your top contractor. Choose the best window installer and meet them before committing. We stay in touch to ensure the project goes smoothly. If you can identify with one or more of the valuable reasons listed on this list, then it’s probably time for a window replacement. Many homeowners think they need new windows but go back and forth about whether it’s a worthy investment.  Reading our top nine reasons to replace windows in your home.
1) Windows have a bigger-than-you-think impact on aesthetics.
Look we get it, it’s not as exciting as getting twin Sub z’s in the kitchen, but the impact windows have on the appearance and style of homes is badly underestimated. Bottom line is, new windows can significantly accentuate or define the character of your home. If you don’t think you’ll notice, ask yourself: how many times a day do you see or use your windows? What about when you’re walking up to your door? See, told you. Many of the homeowner we speak to mention how surprised they are at the impact of their windows on the appearance of rooms in their home. If you have old sills or chipping frames, you should know it doesn't have to be that way. 2) They affect how you enjoy your space Sure, a window’s job may be to let natural light in and keep extreme seasonal temperatures out. You’ll notice a difference from day one in how you experience the space or a room in which you replace your windows, especially if you opt for a window style change. They’ll be totally new (duh!) but they’ll also have the exact appearance that you personally choose. 3) Improved ease of use and safety If you have to “put your hips into it” when closing, opening, or locking your windows, then it's time to move on. It doesn’t have to be that way! Opening and closing your windows should not be a workout. It's not ok - even if your doctor or spouse says you should get more exercise. Speaking of health, old windows may contain lead paint, which is dangerous for children and adults alike. Old sealant or leaking windows can also lead to mold in the home, which is another incredibly dangerous byproduct of old windows. Windows and safety - who knew? 4) Better energy efficiency Being more energy efficient saves you money and reduces the impact you have on the environment. And while every home improvement project may make it seem like "it's all energy efficiency these days”, windows tend not to be the first thing that comes to mind. Many old windows are single pane or have broken seals and there is a tangible difference in energy efficiency by upgrading to new double pane or triple pane windows. That old drafty window in your living room? It gets cold/hot which means you crank up/down your thermostat which means you use more energy which means you consume more fossil fuel. Energy efficient double pane windows reduce energy loss by 30% to 50% over single pane windows. They have low-E coatings and are gas-filled, usually Argon and Krypton which are completely safe and odor less. But what does that even mean? Low-emissivity glass, also known as low-E glass, uses a microscopically thin and virtually invisible metal or metallic oxide layer incorporated in the glazing surface to control heat transfer through insulated windows. 5) They help you be penny wise and pound wise Replacing your windows may be one of the most cost-effective home improvements you can make but not in the way you may assume. Sure, new windows can lessen your monthly utility bills through energy conservation. But don’t believe the hype that your windows will pay for themselves overnight. Anyone telling you that is misleading you. It’s important to have a realistic expectation about the payback period (read: years) and it’s more complicated than you probably realize. Feel free to check out this Energy Star analysis by the EPA if you like math equations (or need a nap!). Fortunately, there are immediate financial incentives to replace your windows that don’t require a years long payback period. Homeowners who install energy efficient windows can take advantage of attractive financing options, tax credits, and rebates. The Department of Energy is a good source for federal rebates and, in Massachusetts, Mass Save helps qualifying homeowners save with 0% financing options on Energy Star certified windows. You can ask us via email or phone for details on how to get started with Mass Save. You can review the EPA’s Energy Star guidelines for tax credits, or check what’s available for rebates and credits from your state. The IRS -- who can forget them? -- also allows tax credits of 10% or up to $200 for qualified Energy Star certified windows, more here. Please consult your accountant or advisor for advice. 6) Boosts resale value Replacing your home’s windows is an underestimated way to improve the potential resale value. According to the National Association of Realtors, window replacement projects can return homeowners more than 78% of the project costs upon resale. A window replacement could go a long way in creating value for you if you're looking to sell now, or even if you’re paying off your mortgage with the hope of an eventual payday years in the future. Bottom line is, if you have a dozen old windows around your otherwise well-manicured house, curb appeal will be dragged down. 7) Lowers maintenance cleaning Admit it - your old windows are a pain to clean or you just don’t even try because it’s a lost cause. Maybe it’s difficult to reach your arm around or you’re precariously leaning outside to wash the exterior. Double hung windows from open and tilt for easy access to both sides of the window for cleaning. You’ll be done and looking through your squeaky clean windows in minutes. 8) Reduces noise Drafty windows can also be loud windows. Maybe from a noisy neighbor? Car or foot traffic? Even street construction or planes overhead can be annoying. And, not to be a grinch, but children playing and dogs barking can stream through your window and disrupt your sleep or your morning coffee. Replacing your windows with dual pane glass windows that are properly sealed and installed can reduce the outside noise transmission into your home and save your sanity. 9) Increases security from all outside elements New windows help protect your home - and no, we’re not just rabble rousing. There are all kinds of outside stresses to keep out. Older windows can pose a security threat. Maybe the locks are failing or have stopped working altogether. And what about the outside weather elements? As sun streams in through an old window the light and UV rays fade furniture, clothing, artwork, carpeting, and decorative curtains. Many replacement windows feature insulating double-pane glass that can block up to 94% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Thinking it might be time for a window replacement? Get started on your project today by speaking to one of our experts at 978.697.4625 or visit Boston Renovation.com. All homeowners have to face the day when a window replacement becomes a necessity. Many choose to replace their windows for improved energy efficiency or to upgrade the look of their house. Whatever the reason, window replacement is an unknown territory to many and the biggest fear factor is often cost. However, there are actually plenty of ways to replace windows while on a budget.  Cost to Replace Windows
The price of replacement windows varies greatly depending on a number of factors, such as material, style and customizations. This guide outlines all of the influential factors to give you a better understanding of the cost of your window replacement project. Window Style You can’t get very far in the window customization process if you haven’t settled on a window style. Trying to compare the costs and benefits of finish options on a casement and a double hung is like comparing apples to oranges. Deciding what style you want is key to determining which brand can best cater to your vision of the finished product. Double Hung: Double hung windows are the most popular and well-known window style, and are comprised of two operable sashes in a single frame. Double hung windows typically cost between $500 and $900, including installation. Single Hung: Single hung windows are similar to double hung, but only have one moveable sash. Due to the simpler operating system, they tend to be one of the cheaper window options. Single hung windows typically cost between $400 and $600, including installation. Casement: Casement windows are single sashed frames that are hinged at the side and open outward. They typically cost between $600 and $1,000, including installation. Slider: Slider windows are a great choice for hard to reach areas of the house. As the name indicates, this window style slides open, providing easy to access ventilation. Slider windows typically cost between $500 and $900, including installation. Bay: Bay windows have a large center window flanked by two smaller windows - usually double hung or casement window - at an angle. As they are composed of multiple windows, bay windows tend to be more expensive than other window styles. Bay windows typically cost between $4,500 and $6,000, including installation. Bow: Bow windows consist of four or five casement windows that work together to create a curved shape, that extends out from the house. Similarly to bay windows, bow windows tend to cost more due to the multiple windows that comprise them. Bow windows typically cost between $5,000 and $6,500, including installation. Picture: Picture windows are non-operational windows that are most often used as decoration, to let in additional light, and give the appearance of a more spacious room. Picture windows typically cost between $500 to $1,000, including installation. Awning: Awning windows are single sashed frames that are hinged at the top and open outward. These windows typically cost between $600 and $850, including installation. Basement Hopper: Hopper windows tilt down and can swing either into or out of the house. These windows typically cost around $500, including installation. Each of these styles of windows offers different benefits in function and design, and they will not directly compare in price on a size to size basis, but the more you explore what you want the more clear the frontrunners for your next window will become. Window Material There are a wide variety of window materials to choose from and they can vary significantly in price. To determine which material is right for your home, check out our Window Frame Guide. Vinyl: One of the most popular and affordable materials for a window replacement is vinyl. Vinyl double hung windows typically cost between $500 and $800, including installation. Composite: Composite windows are popular for their ability to imitate the appearance of wood, while remaining low maintenance. Composite double hung windows typically cost around $900, including installation. Wood: Wood is considered to be a premium material for window frames, due to its strong aesthetic appeal. Wood double hung windows typically cost between $800 to $1,500, including installation. Additional Costs When it comes to window installations, homeowners are offered a wide variety of customizations. These customizations include: Glass panes The most important aspect of windows is the glass used in them. Glass is the aspect of window shopping where price can increase quickly, but value can increase as well. Glass types that are more energy efficient have lower rates of heat transfer, reduced sound emission, and higher weather ratings, so they will tend to cost more. Over time though, energy efficient glass is a huge benefit to your energy bills. When comparing two windows, always compare their relative energy efficiencies. An expensive window that has lower energy efficiency than a less expensive window you are also considering probably won’t be the smartest long term investment in your home. Consider upgrading to triple pane windows which have a greater affect on energy bills. Grid patterns Grids are straightforward - more grids costs more money. You can get many different configurations depending on what window style you go with. When it comes to what type of grid you want, the decision becomes more based on preferences. The basic types are interior/exterior applied, grids between the glass (GBG), and simulated divided lite (SDL). Some windows can come in all types, some only in one. Interior or exterior applied grids are applied only to the outside of the glass. Applied grids are the least expensive because at close inspection of the glass you can see that there are no grids within the glass, so the illusion of individual panes separated by the grids is lost. GBGs are also generally inexpensive, but they lack the opposite component, which is the grids extending from the frame on the outside of the glass. SDLs are more expensive because they include grids applied to both the inside and outside of the glass, so they closely simulate the look of individual panes created by the grids. Some premium windows even come in authentic divided lite, which are authentically individual pieces of glass in each grid, and which are the historic style of building windows that SDLs seek to imitate. Authentic divided lite grids are by far the priciest option. Other features that influence cost include:
To stay within your project budget, it's important to keep all of these factors in mind. However, the wide variety of product styles and materials that are available mean that a window replacement can be possible with just about any budget. To learn more about your window options and associated costs, call us at 978.697.4625 or visit Boston Renovation.com. One of the first steps homeowners must take when starting a window installation is deciding on a window style. There are many window style options, and they all possess their own unique features. To help you understand your options, we’ve compiled 14 of the most common home window styles. You'll also find window prices and general costs included in this guide.  Window Frame Designs Single Hung ($150 - $400)  The single hung window style consists of a bottom sash that can be raised and lowered, and a stationary upper sash. This window type offers a similar appearance to double hung windows, but often at a lower cost, due to the more limited functionality. Single hung windows create a classic look in any home, and can often be installed with a variety of customizable grids. Double Hung ($300-$900)  Double hung windows are the most popular and well-known window style, as they complement almost every style of home. Double hung windows are named based on their function. To open them, you simply slide a sash up and down. Each sash on the window operates independently, meaning the window can be opened both from the top and from the bottom. This factor is what distinguishes double hung windows from single hung windows, where only one of the two sashes is operable. When these windows are closed they can be securely locked with a variety of hardware locking mechanisms. Awning & Hoppers ($300 - $700)  Awning windows have hinges at the top and open outward with a crank allowing them to catch breezes from any direction. Often times, homeowners will place an awning window above or below other windows to add architectural style, light, and ventilation to a room. Awning windows are also popular above or below windows that don’t open like a picture window. Hopper windows are the sibling of awning windows, as they function in a similar way. This window style is hinged at the bottom, and opens into the home with a crank mechanism. Hopper windows are commonly found in small spaces in need of ventilation, such as bathrooms or basements. These windows often have a wide opening, allowing plenty of fresh air into the room. Bay & Bow ($1,300 - $7,000)  Bay windows have a large center window flanked by two smaller windows - usually double hung or casement window - at an angle. Bay windows are the centerpieces of many great rooms and views, and project out from the wall providing an opportunity for additional light and a more spacious feel. This window type is suitable for any style home, as bay windows add charm to a traditionally designed home or create stunning views and sight lines in a contemporary setting. Bow windows are elegant feats of architecture and design that extend out from the home and create expansive views. They consist of four or five windows that create the curved shape of the bow window. These windows are typically made up of a combination casement windows, which open outward. They differ from bay windows, which are typically composed of three windows and form a hexagonal angle rather than a curved shape. You’ll most often see bow windows in older homes, like a Victorian style home for example, but they really can be adapted for any room. Casement ($250 - $900)  Casement windows have hinges on the side and open out to either side. They provide top-to-bottom ventilation in a similar way to an open door. Casement windows are typically taller than they are wide, in a similar fashion as double and single hung windows. This window type can installed individually, as part of a pair, or as a group of multiple windows. Casement windows are also commonly found above kitchen sinks. Egress ($1,500 - $5,000) Egress windows are a unique window type due to their very specific function. This window style is often required in finished basements and provides a route for entry and exit in case of an emergency. As these are often required by building codes, egress windows must meet specific criteria in terms of dimensions. While they are very functional windows, there are many elegant egress styles available for homeowners to choose from. Garden ($1,500 - $4,000)  Garden windows, as the name suggests, provide a dedicated space for plants to flourish inside your house. This window style extends outward, creating a glass box that floods plants and rooms with natural light. Garden windows are often found above kitchen sinks, but they function as an eye-catching centerpiece in any room they are installed. Picture ($150 - $850)  Picture windows are non-operational windows that are most often used as decoration, to let in additional light, and give the appearance of a more spacious room. They can be manufactured in almost any shape, and placed to enhance any view. Unlike other window designs, picture windows do not have a specific function makes them suited only for certain rooms in the house. They are an extremely versatile style that can be installed anywhere to increase access to natural light. Shaped ($500 - $5,000)  As the name suggests, there are a variety of specialty window shapes and sizes available, and shaped windows can be manufactured in almost any design imaginable. The most popular styles of shaped windows include arched windows and round windows. Arched, or radius, windows are rectangular around the bottom and round, or arched, towards the top. Round windows are circular in shape, and can be created in a variety of custom sizes. Shaped windows often become the center of attention in any room they are installed, and some of the world’s most impressive architecture feature this type of window. This window style can be operable, with the ability to open and close, or completely stationary. Skylight ($900 - $2,500) Skylights are a gorgeous addition to any room, as they bring in incredible amounts of overhead natural light. This window style is installed on a roof, and its positioning means that it must be installed with careful consideration. Skylights can increase the temperature of a room, but this can be prevented with customizable tints, glazing and coatings. Additionally, skylights are offered in either stationary or operable styles, which open outward and release hot air accumulations near the ceiling. Sliding ($200 - $1,300)  Sliding windows open horizontally and create a contemporary look in any room. These types of windows open with a sash sliding left to right, or vice versa. Many find this window style to be easier and more convenient to open than windows with vertically moving sashes. They are well suited for installation in modern style homes, but can function in virtually any home. Sliding windows are available in either single slider styles or double slider styles.
Storm ($350 - $800) Storm windows are a unique style, as they are installed on either the inside or outside of existing windows in a house. They can be used to decrease the draftiness in a house, by blocking the flow of air in older windows, and often increase energy efficiency. Storm windows are a cheaper alternative to a complete window replacement, with similar energy bill savings. Ready to start your project or need more information? Fill out your project details or call us at 978.697.4625  Some homeowners are surprised to see window condensation on their newly installed windows. Condensation on the room-side surface of a window can be misinterpreted as an installation or product defect. This is particularly common in the winter months as temperatures drop and heat dials go up.
We have good news: condensation on the room-side pane of glass (ie, inside the innermost pane) is actually a sign the windows are working and may have solved a problem that you didn’t know existed! Condensation on windows... a good thing? If a window has been installed properly, it will not allow humidity, or heat for that matter, to escape your home. It’s likely condensation did not form on your old, drafty windows because the air in your home flowed right out of them... and with it the precious heat or cool air that you pay for every month! With properly sealed windows, humid air comes in contact with a cold surface - in this case the glass in your windows - and forms condensation. Luckily, room-side window condensation is nothing to worry about on new windows! But, if you have old windows and need advice, call us at 888-392-4236 or start a project directly on our replacement windows page. Assuming you have recently installed windows, if the moisture is significant and you find yourself having to wipe down the sills, that’s an indication that the humidity levels in your home are likely too high. Here are a few things that can help: Keep ventilation fans on. Bathrooms and kitchens are both big culprits for producing moisture in your home. Make sure to keep ventilation fans running while cooking or showering, and even leave them on after you're finished for a few minutes. Lower your thermostat. Consider aiming for around 66°- 68°F when no one's home or overnight. Use a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers are most often used in basements but can also help quite a bit in other rooms in the home prone to higher humidity levels, like bathrooms. Store firewood outside. Freshly cut firewood contains a large volume of water that evaporates into your home when stored indoors. Consolidate house plants into fewer rooms. Plants release moisture into the air and can dramatically impact the humidity levels in your home. Try not to over-water plants as well. If you have new windows - use them! You can simply crack open a window for a few minutes to let some dry air in and balance out humidity levels. Still need help? Call us today at 888-392-4236 to speak with our licensed renovation experts and get your project started. You can also start exploring window project options on our replacement windows page. Basement egress or "hopper" windows are almost always used in basements and open inwards from the top. They work this way to avoid accidental damage from the outside and to keep water out. The Harvey Classic vinyl hopper window is custom made, delivers excellent performance and offers a variety of styles, colors and options to meet the needs of your replacement window project. Pros and Cons
Pros:
Features The Harvey Classic vinyl hopper window's sleek fully welded sash and frame design provides an air-tight seal keeping water and wind outside. We automatically include the ENERGY STAR® qualified glazing upgrade with Low-E coating and Argon gas. Other features include:
About Harvey Building Products All Harvey Building Products (based in Waltham, Massachusetts) are custom made in the US and are available in a variety of colors and options. They come with industry-leading warranties and thermal performance, and are a popular choice for homeowners seeking a well-constructed windows and patio doors custom made for their home. Harvey Classic Vinyl Hopper Cost The Harvey Basement Hopper Window is typically installed for around $475. The total price may increase or decrease based on selected attributes during the planning process. Basement level windows, also known as "hopper windows," are most commonly installed in basements, as the name suggests, and swing open from a hinge on the bottom of the frame. This window style is important for bringing light and fresh air into a space of your home where this is particularly difficult to achieve. Below you’ll find information about how hopper windows operate, pricing, pros and cons, and more.
About Replacement Basement Windows Basement windows tilt down and can swing either into or out of the house. The downward tilt prevents dirt and dust from falling into your home. They are similar in design to awning windows but are hinged on the bottom to expedite airflow into rooms on the basement level. Hopper windows can open using the commonly employed crank mechanism or using a hinge, which makes them extremely easy to operate. The crank is controlled by using a fold down handle that glides the window open and closed. Hopper windows, as seen from the outside, are found near the foundation of the house due to their interior location near the top of basement walls. They can also be found above glass doors in older homes. Pros & Cons Pros
Cons
Glass Types Most windows are double pane (with two layers of glass), but can be upgraded to triple pane for increased energy efficiency. This upgrade initially makes for a more expensive window, but over time lowers energy bills. Regardless of how many panes you choose, hopper windows can also come with tempered glass and insulated glass upgrades as well. Tempered glass is stronger and can handle impact better than non-tempered glass. Insulated glass contributes to energy efficiency and can retain heat better than non-insulated glass. Energy efficient windows can be key for retaining heat in basement level areas of the home. Materials Vinyl windows are on the less expensive side of the price spectrum, whereas wood and composite frames will be more expensive. The type of hopper window that will work best for your house depends on your functional needs and budget. Wood windows are often chosen for aesthetic appeal. Vinyl and composite are generally subtle, white framed choices, and although composite fiberglass tends to be more expensive than vinyl, it is also more durable. Vinyl is the most common option for hopper window frames. Basement Window Replacement Cost The price of basement windows can vary by brand, frame material, size and additional features, but a general price range is between $400 and $500. Find out if a hopper window is the right style for your project - speak to our expert at 978.697.4625 or request a free quote below. |
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