Purchasing new, replacement windows are an investment that can instantly improve the beauty, value and comfort of your home. When purchasing a windows replacement for your home, there are many factors to consider, such as the window construction, energy efficiency options, warranties and whether the window is custom-built for your home. Our team of Home Improvement Specialists will help you find the right windows replacement for your home and budget.
Windows Replacement
New windows should be constructed of durable, high quality materials that allow for a long service life. Consider some of the following factors when looking for new replacement windows. Read on to learn more about what to consider when purchasing a windows replacement.
Window Options
Constellation Home vinyl replacement windows are precision-engineered to achieve superior energy efficiency, helping you reduce your energy consumption and create a more comfortable living environment. Plus, with our windows you have a variety of color and design options that add distinction to your home.
Color Options
You have the option to select from a variety of colors and finishes that will add distinction and individuality to every room in your home.
Constellation Home vinyl windows are available in two solid colors, White and Beige, or in alternating colors, White/Beige, White/American Brown or Beige/American Brown.
For the appealing look of natural wood trim, you can select an optional light oak, dark oak, foxwood, or cherry woodgrain finish.
Glass Options
Select from a variety of glass options to complement any décor, from traditional to contemporary – all without sacrificing energy efficiency.
Cut Glass Grids
Classic grids are available in complementary white or beige, with Colonial, Diamond, and Prairie patterns.
Contoured Colonial grids feature a modeled “cut wood” look and are available in complementary colors and in matching wood grains. We also offer narrow Colonial grids.
More Replacement Window Options
Windows replacements from Constellation Home are available in a variety of styles and options. To see more options, view the sections below.
Construction of Replacement Windows
Fusion-Welded for Strength
Fusion-welded windows, or welded sashes and frame construction, is an advanced manufacturing method that helps create a durable, more secure window built for long-term performance. Less durable windows use staples, screws or caulk to bind the corners of their frames.
Low-Maintenance Vinyl
Windows constructed with rugged, low-maintenance vinyl are the ideal solution for long-lasting comfort and easy upkeep. Vinyl windows will never stick, corrode, pit or rot like wood or metal windows.
Frame Materials and Construction
The materials and construction techniques of a window frame play a key role in its overall performance, durability, and energy efficiency. Many modern replacement windows use vinyl frames paired with advanced construction methods, like welded corners and insulated components, to improve strength and help reduce heat transfer. These features work together with the glass options and weather-sealing systems to create a window that performs well over time.
Plus, most vinyl windows will be low- or virtually-maintenance free, meaning you’ll never have to scrape paint or stain the frame.
Weather Sealing and Insulation
Sealing systems, including weatherstripping, help prevent air leakage and drafts by creating a tighter seal when the window is closed. Insulated frame components and certain glass options slow down heat transfer.
Together, these features in modern windows improve your home’s comfort and supports overall energy efficiency, all year round.
Window Balance System
The balance system for a replacement window is essential to the smooth operation and operational longevity of the window. Different windows use different systems, each with trade-offs regarding their weight capacity, durability, and functionality.
Block and Tackle
- Spring and pulley combination
- Low friction for a smooth and quiet balance system
- Easy to replace; no adjustments required
- Commonly used in modern and heavier windows
- Reinforced synthetic fiber balance cord, for long-lasting durability
Constant Force
- Tightly coiled springs that are housed in a small drum, creating consistent tension
- Great for lighter residential vinyl windows
- Reliable, smooth, and low maintenance
Spiral
- Rotating rod turns to create tension with a spring inside a metal tube
- Known for simple design and adjustability
- Prone to long-term tension loss, will likely need maintenance
Custom-Built Windows
Every vinyl replacement window should be individually measured, custom-made and professionally installed to ensure the perfect fit. Windows designed for maximum energy efficiency and constructed with high-quality, heavy-duty materials will ensure your windows last and your home is comfortable all year round. Regardless of whether you are replacing a double-hung window or need a bow window installed, each window should be customized for your home and meet your needs.
Energy Efficiency of Replacement Windows
Energy efficiency is a very important consideration when reviewing your replacement window options. Energy efficiency in windows refers to how well they keep heat inside during winter and outside during summer, which helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature. This reduces strain on your heating and cooling system and can help lower your home’s energy costs.
Below are some factors that affect the efficiency of new replacement windows:
Glass Coatings
A low-emittance (or “Low-E”) glass coating is a microscopically thin film applied to the glass. This coating keeps the heat inside in the winter and outside in summer. Selecting the proper Low-E coating is dependent upon climate zones. The rating is determined by the amount of heat from the sun that is allowed to penetrate through the glass.
Gas Filling
Filling the space between window panes with a more slow-moving gas minimizes the overall transfer of heat between the inside and outside. Many energy efficient windows have Argon, Krypton, or other gases between the panes. These odorless, colorless, non-toxic gases provide better insulation and a lower U-Factor.
Warm Edge Spacers
Window spacers maintain the proper distance between the glazing layers of windows. Previously, aluminum spacers were used, but were discovered to cause significant heat loss and condensation buildup. Today’s warm edge spacers–made of steel, foam, fiberglass, or vinyl — lower the U-Factor and prevent condensation.
Weather Stripping
Weather stripping is a feature that has experienced significant improvements over the last 20 years. More durable, better performing plastic weather stripping is used for superior thermal performance. Heavy-duty weather stripping can help seal gaps and prevent air leakage. This leads to greater energy efficiency.
ENERGY STAR®
A significant portion of the average home’s annual energy budget is consumed by heating and cooling costs, making window efficiency an important factor in overall performance.
Every window featuring the ENERGY STAR label meets the specific energy efficient performance standards developed by the EPA and US Department of Energy. ENERGY STAR certified windows are twice as efficient as windows purchased just ten years ago and more efficient than products required under most common national building codes. Visit www.energystar.gov for more information.
National Fenestration Rating Council
The NFRC label has been designed to help you determine how a particular window can be expected to perform. The NFRC provides consumers with a means for simple and accurate product comparison. Each label highlights the manufacturer, describes the window, and provides additional information, such as energy performance attributes. Visit www.nfrc.org for more information.
