Windows don’t just let in light. They impact everything from safety and energy efficiency to curb appeal and can significantly improve the value of your home. Whether you’re renovating, building new, or simply wishing to upgrade your home, many factors come into play when window shopping. Here are 10 very important things to consider before buying windows.

Material

Window frames are made in a variety of materials, from wood, vinyl, and aluminum to composite, and wood-clad frames. Which is right for you depends on your budget and goals.

Natural wood looks great, insulates well, and can be painted or stained to match your home’s interior. However, it is generally more expensive than other materials and requires more maintenance.

Budget-friendly vinyl is low maintenance, resistant to rot, and insulates well. Aluminum offers a mix of strength and a slim profile, ideal for larger glass areas. However, it is less energy efficient than other materials.Wood-clad and composite frames offer the best of both worlds—the look and appeal of wood and the durability of aluminum or vinyl.

Number of Panes

While single-pane windows are a more affordable option, they lack popular double-pane windows’ strength and energy efficiency. Double and triple-pane windows can significantly reduce exterior noise and lower your monthly energy bills if you live in a noisy neighborhood or struggle to maintain comfortable interior temperatures.

Design

When it comes to windows, the choices are virtually endless. Double-hung windows are by far the most popular. These feature two sashes that allow you to open the window at the bottom and top of the frame. Single-hung windows only have a single operable sash at the bottom of the frame. Sliding windows open and close horizontally. Folding windows (or accordion windows) are a great way to blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior by creating a wide opening that lets in natural light and fresh air.

These are only a few options, so please talk to us about your specific project and needs.

Energy Efficiency

Struggling to regulate the interior temperature of your home? Your windows may be the culprit. Window technology has come a long way. To understand it, you must know about the U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). The U-factor of a window indicates how much hot/cold air escapes, depending on the season. The scale ranges from 0.2 to 1.25. The higher the number, the less energy-efficient the window will be.

SHGC tells you how much solar energy the window lets in. If you want the sun to heat your home in winter, opt for a higher SHGC. If you live in a hot climate and wish to maintain cool interior temperatures, you may prefer windows with a lower SHGC.

Architecture

Your home's location and surroundings should also influence your decision. Consider where the sun rises in relation to your home. In parts of the home that receive more direct sunlight, you may opt for UV-protective windows. If you have an obstructed view, paying for a premium picture window may not make sense.

Safety

If you have children or pets and live in a two-story home, you may benefit from single-hung windows that allow you to open them from the top. Also, don’t forget the locking mechanisms, particularly on the home's first floor. We offer a variety of choices from deadbolts and window pin locks to traditional sash locks.

Glazing

Want to reduce heat conductivity for cooler summers and warmer winters? Glazing offers a low-emissivity coating that will not only keep you comfortable but reduce noise and provide additional safety in case of breakage.

Security

Your window should let in light while helping you maintain energy efficiency and keep out intruders and extreme weather. For increased security, consider impact-resistant windows with reinforced frames and laminated glass. Tempered glass windows are also stronger than regular glass and designed to break into small, dull-edged pieces when shattered.

Consultation

When shopping for windows, you should be just as selective about the product as you are considering the company that installs it. At Wyoming Building Supply, we offer free consultations and will spend the time necessary to ensure the final result of your project aligns with your unique vision. Unfortunately, big box stores rarely provide this level of customer service.

Installation

No matter the quality of the window, it will not perform if it isn’t properly installed. This is one reason customers turn to us. With nearly 50 years of experience, we breathe new life into spaces using hand-selected products from trusted manufacturers. Just important? We do the job the right way.

Whether we’re installing windows, a new kitchen, a bathroom, or premium doors, you can rest assured that we tackle each project with precision and care.

We Treat Your Project Like It’s Our Only Project

Windows are a big investment, so it’s important to work with a company that understands your budget and goals. We don’t upsell or push customers into buying products or services they don’t want or need. When you work with us, you get complete transparency from the initial consultation to the completion of your project. That means premium products and seamless, end-to-end solutions that exceed expectations. Contact us today to learn more about our windows and installation services!