Windows are lovingly called the “eyes of the home,” a way to view the “soul of your home”. New windows will give your house an improved curb appeal and provide an opportunity to reduce energy consumption. With the cooler season quickly approaching, why not consider replacement windows for your Los Angeles home? Many homeowners are unsure what they should be looking for and how to shop for replacement windows and patio doors. Quality windows will decorate your home for decades, so it is important to make the right choice. American Deluxe Windows has put together a short manual that will help you get on the right track in your window shopping experience.
Most Popular Window Material Types in Los Angeles
The most noticeable feature of replacement windows and patio doors is the material of the window frames. Deciding which frame you like is the first step that will help you determine the difference between replacement windows.
Here are some of the most common windows you’ll find on the market in Los Angeles:
- Vinyl Windows
- Fiberglass Windows
- Wood Windows
- Aluminum Clad Exterior, Wood Interior Windows
Due to their energy efficiency, affordability, and low maintenance, Vinyl windows are perhaps the most popular in the Los Angeles area. Vinyl windows won’t peel, rot or sustain moisture damage, which is a big advantage compared to wood windows. Vinyl windows are highly effective in saving energy in the Southern California climate. We encourage you to keep in mind that not all vinyl window frames are equal. At American Deluxe Windows, we use replacement windows that are fabricated with one hundred percent virgin vinyl, which is considerably more durable than recycled vinyl frames.
Fiberglass windows are a superior choice. Fiberglass window frames are made with the same material trusted in boats, tools, bridges, and more. It is naturally very strong and durable. Fiberglass window material used in our windows is the strongest material available in the market today, engineered for lasting durability. Fiberglass window frames will never rot or corrode, and they resist dents, bends, and breaks. However, keep in mind that fiberglass windows are a bigger investment compared to vinyl windows.
Wood windows add warmth and an undeniable aesthetic to any home, making them a forever popular choice. However, wood is susceptible to moisture damage and environmental damage, so it requires continuous maintenance. Wood windows might peel, chip, and even rot if not maintained properly. They might be affected by insects, like termites. At American Deluxe Windows, we install aluminum clad wood windows and patio doors built for longevity and performance. It means that the exteriors of our clad wood windows and patio doors are fully encased in heavy-duty, extruded aluminum.
Energy Efficient Gas
In order to achieve the most significant energy savings, replacement windows should contain energy-efficient gas. This gas is not visible to the eye. It is odorless but makes a massive impact on the performance of the replacement window.
Argon gas is the most popular with double pane windows, and it is a gas fill that you’ll find in the majority of replacement windows throughout Los Angeles. Argon gas is denser than air. Its thermal conductivity is 67% of air, making it better at insulating the home. While you can’t see argon gas in the window, it’s important to inquire about this option before you make your purchase. The experts at American Deluxe Windows say that you likely won’t experience the same amount of energy savings and interior comfort if you choose a window without argon gas.
Single-Pane, Dual Pane, and Triple Pane Windows
Early on, residential replacement windows were built with a single glass pane between window frames. It was simple to create a window that way, but it was quickly discovered that single-pane windows are not energy efficient. The home with single-pane windows is too warm in the summer and too cold in the winter because energy can easily escape through the glass. Nowadays, single-pane windows are essentially a product of the past, and in fact, they are not legal in Southern California.
Dual pane windows and triple-pane windows are the options available to the homeowners for today’s replacement windows.
It is relatively simple to understand the dual pane and triple pane window concept. Dual pane windows have an extra pane of glass, and there is airspace in between the panes. During the engineering process, the airspace is filled with argon gas. The dual-pane window is the most popular window on the market today. It is perfect for the Los Angeles climate and dramatically increases energy savings.
Triple pane windows include a third pane of glass, and there is also an extra chamber inside the window unit. They are somewhat new to the market, but they are becoming popular with the homeowners that experience extreme weather conditions year-round.
Los Angeles Replacement Window Warranties
Bells and whistles are fun and important to consider but don’t forget about window warranties. A replacement window warranty can lead you out of trouble regardless of the type of window you select for your home. Always compare the warranty coverage period first. At American Deluxe Windows, we install windows and patio doors that carry true lifetime and double lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. Next, you want to make sure the warranty covers essential parts of the window, like the glass system and the frames. At American Deluxe Windows, we even offer a grass breakage manufacturer’s warranty to provide peace of mind for years to come.
Contact American Deluxe Windows and get expert help with selecting your new replacement windows and patio doors.
We understand there is a lot to consider when shopping for replacement windows. We hope this short guide can help you outline what matters most with your new investment. American Deluxe Windows installs countless windows and patio doors annually in the Los Angeles area. Our team helps homeowners wade through the trenches of choosing the best window at the right price, so don’t go through the process alone. Give us a call at (818) 561-8191 or contact us on our website.
