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Window Shopping 101- Anatomy of a Window

So you’re shopping for new windows, but like most homeowners, you don’t have a lot of knowledge about replacement windows. The team at All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding put together this short guide to help familiarize yourself with the parts of a window, so when you do your research, you’ll know what these basic terms mean and you’ll know what to look for when shopping.

Know the Basics of Window Anatomy before Shopping

Anatomy of a Window1. Frame – the frame is the outside structure (usually made of wood, or composite) that provides structure and rigidity so the window has a place to sit securely.

2. Cladding – made of vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass, cladding is wrapped around the exterior of a wood or composite window to protect it from the elements. It also eliminates the need to paint the window.

3. Sash – this is the moving part of the window. It can slide up and down and allows the window to be tilted in for easy cleaning. Double hung windows have an upper and a lower sash.

4. Insulated Glass – double-glazed windows have two panes of glass sealed together. The space  between the two panes of glass is filled with air or another gas that insulates better than air. Argon gas is the most common gas other than air used to fill the space.

5. Low-E Coating – this transparent coating improves the efficiency of the glass by reflecting heat while letting light in. In warm climates, the coating is applied to the outside of glass to reflect the sun’s heat and keep it out. In colder areas, it’s applied to the inside glass to keep heat in.

6. Grilles – these are the decorative pieces that criss cross the middle of the window, usually in a grid pattern. They are available in different designs to match architectural styles.

At All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we are proud to offer Andersen replacement windows. We have found that these windows offer the best in quality and price.

If you are considering purchasing Kansas City replacement windows and have questions, please don’t hesitate to call us at (913) 648-9589 or contact us online. We will be happy to answer any questions you have and help make your shopping experience better!

3 Tricks to Spend the Least on the Best Replacement Windows

Best Replacement Windows in Kansas CityAt All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we know you want quality windows and you don’t want to pay more than you should. Since most homeowners only purchase replacement windows once or twice in a lifetime, it’s hard to know what they should cost. That’s why we put together these tips on buying the best replacement windows. If someone else tries to sell you something you don’t need, you’ll be armed with the information you need to make a smart decision.

There are basically three areas where you can spend erroneously thinking you need that feature or option, when in reality, it won’t provide much benefit. Take them all into consideration when researching and getting quotes and you’ll know how to avoid paying more for something you don’t really need.

1. Price Does Not Equal Performance

You may be inclined to think that a more expensive window is obviously a better window. That is not always the case. In an independent study of casement windows, the least expensive window scored highest. It all depends on the materials and the statistics. When comparing, look at energy ratings, materials (vinyl, wood, aluminum, composite), and warranties. All will affect your satisfaction level after the purchase. Decide which features are important to you and whether they are worth the extra cost difference.

2. Don’t Pay for More Energy Savings Than You Need

Window manufacturers make windows that can withstand some pretty extreme temperatures. However, if you live in the Kansas City area, do you really need windows that are rated for a much colder climate? Avoid overkill and get the windows that will deliver enough energy efficiency, but not way too much. The only place you’ll notice the difference is in your wallet. The NFRC label helps you compare between energy-efficient windows by providing you with energy performance ratings in multiple categories. While the ENERGY STAR label tells you that a product is energy-efficient, the NFRC helps you compare between energy-efficient products by giving you independent ratings in several energy performance categories.

3. Watch Out for Options & Upgrades

It’s easy to overspend on options. Upgrades can easily add 50% or more to the base cost of a window. If you add features, make sure to focus on the features that add value. Low-E coatings improve efficiency, but triple glazing probably isn’t necessary unless you live in an extremely cold climate. Double-hung window sashes (tilt in make cleaning easier), full screens, finer meshed screens, and hardware upgrades will quickly add up, so be careful.  

Other Ways to Save on Replacement Windows

Keep More Money in Your Pocket with Pocket Replacement Windows

If your existing frames and sills are in good shape, you may be a good candidate for pocket replacement windows. Also known as partial replacement windows, these windows are slightly smaller and fit into the existing frames. You save money on materials and labor. Otherwise, you’ll need full-replacement windows.

Finding an Installer

Kansas City Andersen Windows DealerAt All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we choose to offer Andersen replacement windows to our Kansas City customers. The Andersen window brand has demonstrated integrity and innovation for over 100 years and is the most recognized and most used brand in the window industry. Andersen replacement windows are simply the best replacement windows in Kansas City that we have found.

Even the best windows won’t deliver the look or comfort you expect if they’re installed improperly. Many major window manufacturers train and certify installers for their specific products. At All-Weather, we are proud to be an Andersen Window Circle of Excellence dealer. You can have extra confidence that when we install your windows, we do it exactly the way the manufacturer recommends so the window provides superior performance for years to come. Additionally, using the same contractor for purchase and installation can minimize the chances of problems arising later.

If you’re looking into replacement windows, give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or contact us online and we’ll be happy to help you make this important decision with confidence.

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