Make the most of your investment into windows

Windows aren’t merely utilitarian building materials—they can enhance your home’s design and livability, and even add value. That’s why we partnered with Pella Windows & Doors of Oklahoma for our 2020 Project House. Here are five elements to look for when selecting windows for your home.

• Function. Consider how you want to use your space and how windows can add to the experience. Different windows offer many benefits. For example, casement windows crank outward and can open the interior to the outdoors without a screen. In one of Pella Window’s unique offerings, the Integrated Rolscreen, the screen disappears when you open the window, allowing more natural light inside. “A hidden window screen is for aesthetics and convenience,” says Kathryn Nash, marketing and advertising coordinator for Pella Windows & Doors of Oklahoma.

• Glass. With window panes, the more the better. There are single, double and even triple panes to choose from. “Single pane is just one pane of glass and more heat comes inside than a double pane. Double pane provides more insulation and a triple pane offers even more than that,” Kathryn says.

• Energy Efficiency. A low-e (low emissivity) window coating can reflect the heat, which keeps the heat outside the house when the weather is hot, but also keeps the heat inside when the weather is cold. Also search for windows with an Energy Star certification, which means they’ve met the stringent EPA requirements for energy savings.

• Durability. Not all windows are built the same. You want your windows to last, and they should be durable. Look for a window that offers a limited lifetime warranty, which can include support for any issues with your windows. Research how the prospective window company tests its products so you know the quality you’re getting and whether they will last for years to come. “All of our products are tested to the extreme,” Kathryn says. “Our windows are tested up to 6,000 times.”

• Installation. Professional—and correct—installation of your windows ensures a worthy window investment. A shoddy job could cause leaks and higher energy costs. “Proper installation is important in keeping out the elements,” -Kathryn says.

Through the Right Looking Glass

5 window essentials to make the most of your investment

Black gooseneck lamps bring a modern flair and coordinate well with the dark-stained porch, white furniture and black window frames.