Ask an Architect, Custom Residential
How to Pick a Window
When you start looking into what windows to pick, it can be very overwhelming. Here's what to focus on: great materials, real muntins, and appropriate measurements. Going in with the right knowledge will help you save money, and protect you from the pitfalls of poor-quality windows.
June 2, 2011
In any remodel or new home, windows are always one of the biggest costs. They're probably the part of your house that leaves the biggest impression and defines the character of your home. They also greatly enhance how you experience the inside of your home and how much light is coming in.
In short, don't screw them up.
And truly, it is disturbing how many, many, many, homes screw this up. Home builders especially are some of the biggest culprits on this front although a lot of the blame has to be put upon our national culture and our desire to experience as much "luxury" as possible with as little money as possible. We all know the drill: you can now get leather seats in an economy car, fake designer clothing, and every imaginable bit of fake materials to slap on your house. "We can have it all!" (Just don't look too close, though, as it looks a bit shoddy as you get closer!)
So, what does this mean in terms of windows?
Materials. Muntins (not Mullions). Measurements. The three "M's" of windows that need to be considered every time.
Materials
With most anything, I'm a bigger fan of cutting back on quantity and upping the quality. But with windows, that often means fewer windows and less light which can end up being worse. So, consider how much natural light you want / need and shop carefully for the best windows you can afford. Wood windows are classic and beautiful but you can also get wood clad vinyl / fiberglass / aluminum windows, which provide a great halfway solution.
Clad window.
Marvin makes great windows that also slip into existing openings so you can leave the existing trim in place for remodels. Check them out here (they also have replacement casements and other styles besides double-hung windows). You'll want to consider durability for the exterior as well; think of a good clad window for the outside so you're not stuck with painting the window.
Muntins
Here's the big one. So many homes in the Northwest love that traditional divided window look and end up making some horrific decisions. My rule is pretty absolute on this: if you cannot afford a true divided lite or a simulated divided lite with a spacer then DO NOT USE MUNTINS! It is just that simple. The spacer in a simulated one helps the windows at least appear genuine and avoid odd light and shadow issues while keeping the cost down. Anything else just looks ridiculous. The white tape you see often on windows on suburban homes are a travesty.
Be careful with lead as well. Because a window truly divided by lead leaks air like a maniac it is hard to get them to work with modern energy codes. And they don't work on double pane glass because moisture leaks in and ruins the seal. Lead "tape" (more often zinc actually) can look as poor as the white tape that you often see. Be cautious.
Here is an example of a "Simulated Divided Lite (SDL) with Spacer" window.
And here is an example of a "Authentic Divided Lite" window.
Why not spend your money on some really beautiful windows in the front of your house with some true muntins in a great pattern and then do simpler, double-hung or casement windows elsewhere without any muntin pattern. Do it right, or don't do it all.
Please, please, please stop picking any more windows like these. They're fooling no one:
Measurements
If you can, stick to the stock measurements and you'll save a bundle. Where you can't because of remodeling or other concerns, then aim to get the most bang for your buck while respecting the architecture. The bigger the window you use will also cost you more. Consider a bank of multiple windows in smaller sizes if cost is an issue. It can often cost significantly less. A bank of smaller windows can also help reduce the sea of glass that muntins are often used to negate.
Overall
Think creatively and make sure your architect is helping you select the best window for your needs. Carefully balance your budget with aesthetic needs and make sure you don't cheap out on quality as you will regret it.
A bigger point to remember is that if you price out everything and it still exceeds your budget then you should reduce the scope (consider it the architectural equivalent of stepping away from the table before you're full) and not just fill yourself up with more of lesser quality.
Windows may not be the main course at the architectural buffet but they're certainly a prime side dish. Please don't make yourself sick by gouging on the architectural equivalent of the spam and tater-tot casserole. Great windows should be a lot tastier than that.
