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If you could install the best windows in your home for good insulation what would you choose – brand, etc? How much would it cost? Thanks.
If you could install the best windows in your home for good insulation what would you choose – brand, etc? How much would it cost?
Thanks.
I echo what Pstreet says. To that end, insert windows will not provide the insulation that full brick-to-brick replacement windows do (ie. with new frames). Because it’s only when you completely remove the old windows that you gain access to the wall cavity and hence the opportunity to add insulation and create a proper seal. We had custom mahogany windows installed in old frames — they look beautiful but are horribly drafty. We learned our lesson and subsequently did full replacement for other windows. Unfortunately the full replacement windows are much more costly: Marvins installed by E-Z Tilt in Bay Ridge will run $2-4k depending on size. But try Kolbe, Bonneville or Lincoln which I believe are all cheaper. Just be sure you get really professional installers.
Also, I believe there were posts about just this subject a few days ago.
Proper installation is super important. Even a high quality window is useless is they leave drafts around the edges. A poor installation can leave you with windows that don’t open and close well. Tell your installers , no tip till after the first breezy day.
I went with wooden Marvin, and am very happy with them.. well, except the price. Don’t remember how much I paid, but it was something like $1200 for one window. Ouch.
We didn’t find any substantial difference between triple vs double pane, so went with double. The old casement vs. double hung debate really just depends on the look you are going for and if you even have room for a window to tilt open. We only replaced one window, and the rest are the original wood windows with their original storm panes intact, so it was more important for us to match the rest of the windows.
For new windows, Marvin, Optiwin, or Bieber. Casement is better than double hung (and can be made to look like double hung), triple pane better than double, and sound reducing glass better than standard. Depending on the size of your windows $1500 – $2000 per window and up. Don’t do vinyl (prone to warping) or aluminum (conducts too much). Wood clad give best of both worlds.
Keep in mind if you have OLD wood windows, you can have them refurbished and high quality storms added. That combo will probably outperform everything, but may not be LPC compliant.