The Only Window Guide You Need

If you’re in the market for some new windows, you’ve probably already noticed that you have a lot of available options. In fact, in today’s crowded market, it can seem like there’s a different type of window option for every type of house! The good news is that Santa Fe Glass & Mirror is here to shed some light on the subject. As your premier glass shop in Santa Fe, NM, we’ll help you find the right windows for your home or office in no time. Consider this your go-to guide for window information.

Two basic window varieties and their respective style options

Windows can be classified in two easy types: operable windows (which can be opened and closed) and fixed windows (which cannot be opened). If you want to be able to let in air, you’ll want operable windows. But if you just need to let in light and nothing else, fixed is the way to go.

Operable window styles include:

• Awning
• Single-hung
• Double-hung
• Casement
• Skylight
• Sliding/gliding
• Skylight

Fixed window styles include:

• Picture/stationary
• Skylight
• Glass block

Consider consulting with a reputable glass shop in Santa Fe, NM to determine which type of window is best for your needs.

Your choice of materials

Windows may all be composed of glass elements, but they come in a wide variety of materials. For example, you might choose single pane, double-pane or even triple-pane, depending on your window’s intended use. The more panes you use, the higher your insulation level will be. While they may be more expensive up front, they will give you long-term savings down the road.

Many homeowners today are also taking advantage of heat-absorbing tinted windows that help reflect heat by absorbing solar radiation and diminishing sun glare. Tint options include gray, bronze, green and blue.

Your choice of casings

The molding that surrounds your window’s frame is called a window casing. The casing seals your window on the outside, and also provides a unique aesthetic appeal to match your home’s décor. You’ll want to consider a few things when you’re deciding on casing: your budget, your desired level of window maintenance and your home’s style. Some top choices of window casings include:

• Fiberglass: This extremely durable material is both low-maintenance and highly insulative. If you want to closely match your home’s surroundings, you can paint the casing any color you like, or opt for a faux-wood finish.
• Wood: This very popular type of casing is widely liked for its beautiful, classic appearance. If your windows will be in plain view most of the time, wood might be just the way to highlight their beauty. One caveat: Wood casing is rather high-maintenance, relative to other casing options.
• Aluminum: This type of casing has more stamina than wood, and is also slimmer and lighter by designed. If you need extra insulation properties, you can request to have a foam layer added during installation.

Whatever your window needs, be sure to work with a high quality glass shop in Santa Fe, NM, such as Santa Fe Glass & Mirror, to ensure you get the best products and service at honest prices. Get in touch with us today to learn more!

Categorised in: Glass Shop

This post was written by Writer