The right window blends in seamlessly with the overall architecture of a home. The problem is that sometimes the right window isn’t available as a standard option. If you’re having trouble finding a set of windows that match your home’s design, you may want to consider going the custom route.
Below are 5 tips to help you create the perfect custom window:
- Determine a Budget
The typical window replacement cost is between $200 and $1800. That’s quite a large range! Using these numbers, the cost of replacing 10 windows could be anywhere from $2,000 to $18,000.
Before shopping for a set of custom windows, make sure to create a budget range. Keeping a range in mind will help you prioritize which features are necessary and which can wait until later.
- Select a Style
Creativity flows more naturally when focus is narrow. Before trying to think of the exact shape, size, and color of your new windows, determine which style of window would best complement the exterior of your home.
- Pick a Material
There are three main materials used to make windows – wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. Each material has its own pros and cons. Below is a brief overview of each.
Wood Window
Pros: Wood windows have a beautiful aesthetic and are regarded by many as the best window appearance-wise. They are also energy efficient.
Cons: They can rot and warp. In other words, they’re high maintenance. They also cost more than windows made from other materials.
Vinyl Window
Pros: Vinyl windows also have low energy costs. They’re more affordable than wooden windows and they’re available in a wide variety of colors.
Cons: These windows are the hardest to customize. If you’re going for a standard shape they’re great, but contractors have to use a process known as extrusion to customize vinyl windows and this process adds to the total cost.
Fiberglass Window
Pros: Fiberglass windows are extremely durable. The glass fibers are designed to ensure the material has maximum strength. They are also energy efficient and low maintenance.
Cons: These windows cost more than vinyl windows and have less flexibility than wooden windows design-wise (at least when it comes to color choices).
- Choose Glass Type
After choosing a material, you need to choose a glass type. There are nine different types of glass homeowners can choose from, and each have their own benefits. These variations are float, laminated safety, obscured, tinted, tempered, insulated, mirrored, Low-E, and wired.
- Pick A Professional
Once you have a good idea of what type of window you want, reach out to a professional window contractor. A contractor will work with you to find something as close as possible to your dream window. Then, they’ll give you a quote and set up a time to come by and start the installation process.
American Window Products Can Help You Customize and Install The Perfect Window
We have 16 different window manufacturers which provide over 80 different models to suit not only your needs, but your personal taste and your home’s architectural style as well. On top of that, we offer custom solutions and energy-efficient rated windows.
In addition to an impeccable selection, we have a reputation for stellar customer service.
“They put in 11 windows in one day! Very professional crew & salesman, Roger. I will recommend to others. Thank you for a job well done.” -Suzzane W.
If you have any questions, our experts are happy to answer them, contact us today!