My Blogs

How to Assess Quality Windows and Doors

January 26, 2025

5 mins read

If you are in the market for new windows and doors, you might not know where to start in terms of assessing options. If you’re not a construction expert yourself, you might be blinded by the possibilities. Fortunately, there are particular features that you can look for that will help you make a more informed decision.

In the sections below, we will provide an overview of the primary features of quality doors and windows, the importance of Energy Star certification, as well as proper installation. Keeping these points in mind will help ensure that you end up with the right option for your home.

Choice of material

Whether you are looking at sliding windows vs hung windows, wood doors or aluminum, choice of material is critical when it comes to doors and window sills. You certainly have a choice of quality materials, but there are some that are better than others. Experts recommend the following above all:

  • Solid wood. Solid wood is both pleasing to the eye and very durable. Be sure that you choose a solid option if you want wood, though, because composites don’t have the same quality.
  • Durable vinyl. The right quality vinyl also has excellent durability and can help protect your home. It is also a great protector against moisture.
  • Aluminum. Aluminum is an excellent material because it is strong and resistant to corrosion.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency in doors and especially windows is a big topic these days. Not only does having energy-efficient windows keep your heating bills down, they are better for the environment and can win you brownie points with the government in terms of Energy Star approval.

Regardless of what type of windows you are considering - whether they be big or small - energy efficiency should be a top priority. Look for windows that have the following features:

  • Low-emissivity (low-E) coatings. Having these coatings on your windows significantly reduces the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that comes through the glass, thus preventing energy loss.
  • Multi-pane glass. More and more people are choosing double- and even triple-pane glass for their windows. The best-quality choices have an inert gas filling such as argon between the panes. This helps tremendously with insulation.

Weather resistance

If you live in a harsh climate, you definitely want to ensure that your doors and windows are weather resistant. These vulnerable parts of your home can break down easily without the right resistance levels. High winds, snow and rainstorms, and high levels of UV radiation can cause severe damage to doors and windows if you are not careful.

To ensure high weather resistance, be sure to invest in impact-resistant glass. This will give you extra protection if you live in a region where storms are common. Also, be sure to use a high-grade seal and weather-resistant finish. This applies to your doors, as well.

Security is paramount

You can have the most weather-resistant doors and windows on the planet, but if you don’t ensure their security then you could still be subjecting your home to potential burglars. Remember the following points about door and window security:

  • Choose strong and durable frames. Frames are what keep your doors and windows in place, after all, so remember the materials mentioned above when making a choice.
  • Ensure that there are multiple locking points. Burglars are getting smarter and smarter all the time, so the more locks you have, the better.
  • Be sure to choose tempered or laminated glass for windows and glass doors. This will help resist cracking.
  • Think about getting smart locks that are controllable remotely. This is becoming a popular option these days.

Be sure to soundproof

If you live in a noisy area, you want to soundproof your home the best that you can. Points to remember in soundproofing windows and doors include choosing thick, laminated glass or more solid options for other materials. Also, in choosing glass, be sure that your choice gets high acoustic performance ratings.

In addition, weatherstripping is important not only for protection against harsh weather, but also in reducing noise infiltration into the home.

Regular maintenance is key

Just like anything else in life, regular maintenance of doors and windows is essential to keeping them in good shape. Look for options that are easy to clean, and are resistant against scratching.

Some options are also better at repelling dirt and debris than others, so ask your seller about this. Aluminum is known as being a particularly durable and low-maintenance material.

Customized doors and windows

Choosing doors and windows for your home isn’t only about quality. You also want to make choices that you like and which are pleasing to the eye. Ask about customization options in terms of styles and colors.

You want to be sure that what you choose matches the architectural style of your house, and also the type of style that you personally prefer. You will spend a lot of time sitting in your living room looking through the window, after all. When you ask about customization, be sure to include type, finish, size, and shape.

Be sure to choose a pro for installation

Everyone wants to save costs on home renovation, but doors and windows are things that you shouldn’t take lightly. There are many subtle features of the installation process that non-professionals simply don’t understand. If you try to cut costs by installing yourself, you could be leaving your home open to leaks, damage, or safety issues. Invest now and you will be rewarded later with a safe home and low energy bills.

You can make the right decision on professional installation by doing research on local reviews. Ask around among your neighbors about choices that they made. You can then compare prices, itemized options, and make the best possible decision for your needs.

Keep notes to stay on top of things

All these points might seem overwhelming at first, but if you keep organized notes about what you need and how you are progressing, you will be able to stay on top of the process. Remember not to rush and make a hasty decision just because you want to get the job done. Taking the time to do it right will pay dividends in the long-term.


https://www.ecolinewindows.ca/wp-content/uploads/custom-shape.jpg

DIY Projects

How to Assess Quality Windows and Doors
If you are in the market for new windows and...
Read
The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Your Dream Home in California
With its breathtaking coastline, bustling cities, and picturesque landscapes, California...
Read

Delightfully.

Transforming your home, from the inside out.

linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram