Commonly Asked Questions About Residential Windows

11 December 2017
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Never overlook the need for new windows in your home, as poor-quality windows do nothing to help insulate a home, and they may be prone to cracks and scratches that are letting out your heating and cooling throughout the year. Older windows that are not very strong may also be easy for an intruder to break. While you may not actually need toughened safety glass for your home's windows, you might note some commonly asked questions about the types of windows that are often recommended for homes and what would be best for your home when you're ready to shop for new windows.

Can window film compensate for older windows?

Window film can certainly help to protect your home's interior from hot summertime sun, and this film may help to block leaks due to cracks and scratches on a window's surface. However, window film is usually not as good of a solution for a home as new glass altogether; this film may help keep shards of glass from flying around the room if a window were to get broken, but it can do little to actually keep a window from breaking. Window film is also not as thick as double-glazed windows, so it won't offer much temperature or noise insulation. Rather than assuming you can "make do" with film, it's good to invest in new windows when needed.

Is triple-glazed worth the investment?

Double-glazed windows help to insulate the home from the outside temperature and from bothersome noise, reducing your utility bills and creating a comfortable home environment. Another pane in the windows, or triple-glazing, can help to add to this insulation, but this is not usually necessary. If your home is near a noisy school or roadway or is very draughty, triple-glazed windows can be worth the investment, but otherwise, most homes can suffice with double-glazed windows.

Why do windows rattle?

If your home's windows tend to rattle, this can be because the window frames are getting older and softer and are not holding the window panes in place as they should. New frames or even new caulking around the edges of the glass can reduce this noise. Single-pane windows also tend to rattle in high winds or from vibrations, whereas double-glazed windows are more secure and less likely to rattle. Upgrading to double-glazed glass and vinyl frames that are less likely to soften and weaken over the years can help reduce this sound and ensure your windows are quiet even in strong storms or when there is heavy traffic nearby.