If you want to improve the energy efficiency of your home, adding new windows can be a good investment. There are many different choices when it comes to window installation. You can have replacement windows installed, but these may not work for every window in your home. The doors are another area that you will have to deal with. Here are some of the things that you will want to consider with the windows in your home:      

1. Understanding What Replacement Windows Are And How They Are Used

Replacement windows are a special type of window. These are not like common windows you would have installed in your home. They are meant to be installed in existing window openings to replace old window sashes. Replacements cannot be used in every window, so you will have to check sizes and the condition of openings to determine where they can be installed. Some of the openings in your home may need to have small repairs and adjustments before these windows can be installed. 

2. Using New Windows For Openings That Cannot Have Replacements Installed

When an opening cannot be repaired or replacements cannot be used, installing a new window may be the only option. This may be the case for openings with severe rot and insect damage, where the old casing has to be completely removed. Some custom windows and openings that do not have conventional casings may also need to be completely replaced with new windows.  You can get new windows that are the same style and design as the replacements.

3. Alternatives To Replacement Windows Where You Do Not Want To Make Changes

There are also alternatives to replacing windows if you have custom features that you do not want to change. This can be for things like doors or custom glass that may cost too much to replace. One option is to use a window film on the glass, which can help add insulation and prevent UV light from coming in your home. Films also have the benefit of making glass shatter resistant. Another option is to use window treatments inside and outside your home, which can be things like curtains, shutters and thermal shades that improve the energy performance of windows.

These are some things that you will want to consider when it comes to adding replacement windows to your home. If you are ready to improve your windows and doors, contact a vinyl window contractor (such as one from Howald Windows & Doors) and talk with them about some of these options for your windows.