Window replacment Coeur d'alene & Spokane

Guide to Choosing New Windows

Explore our comprehensive guide to selecting the ideal windows for your new construction project, ensuring energy efficiency and style. If you have any questions feel free to reach out.

Key Features of Window Selection

Energy Star Certification

Ensure your windows are Energy Star certified for optimal energy efficiency and potential rebates.

Comprehensive Warranty

Choose windows with a robust warranty to protect your investment and ensure long-term satisfaction.

Low Maintenance Options

Select materials like vinyl or fiberglass for windows that require minimal upkeep and offer lasting durability.

Enhanced Safety Features

Consider tempered glass for added safety, reducing the risk of injury from breakage.

UV Protection

Opt for windows with Low-E coatings to protect interiors from harmful UV rays while maintaining indoor comfort.

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Customizable Designs

Explore a variety of styles and finishes to match your home’s aesthetic and functional needs.

The U-factor measures a window’s insulation effectiveness. Lower values, like 0.22, indicate better insulation, reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency. Windows with lower U-factors are recommended for colder climates

You have a variety of styles to choose from, such as single-hung, double-hung, casement, sliding, bay, and picture windows. Each style offers unique benefits—double-hung windows are versatile and easy to clean, while casement windows provide excellent ventilation

Energy-efficient windows use features like low-E coatings, multiple panes, and gas fills to minimize heat transfer, improving comfort and lowering utility costs. Look for ENERGY STAR ratings as a guide to find energy-efficient models​

Double- and triple-pane windows reduce noise, improve insulation, and increase security. While they cost more upfront, they provide better long-term energy savings and can be especially beneficial in noisy or variable climates

Common materials include vinyl, wood, aluminum, and fiberglass. Vinyl is affordable and low-maintenance, while wood offers a classic aesthetic but requires more upkeep. Fiberglass combines durability with energy efficiency, making it ideal for extreme climates

New construction windows have nailing flanges for attaching directly to the house frame, ideal for new builds or major renovations. Replacement windows fit into existing frames, making them easier to install without removing the surrounding structure

Yes, new construction windows offer flexibility in size and shape, allowing for customization to suit architectural preferences. Options include standard rectangular shapes, as well as specialty shapes like arches, rounds, and geometric patterns

Vinyl and fiberglass windows are popular low-maintenance choices, as they resist warping, rotting, and require minimal upkeep. Fiberglass is particularly durable, with a longer lifespan compared to other materials

Window placement affects lighting, views, and airflow. For example, south-facing windows maximize natural light, while windows in sheltered areas can reduce wind exposure. Carefully planning placement enhances both functionality and aesthetic​

New construction window installation involves securing the window to the house frame before applying exterior finishes. This method provides a weathertight seal, though it requires professional installation and is more complex than replacement window installation​

Our Commitment to Excellence

At McKnight Homes, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional quality and craftsmanship in every window we offer. With years of experience in the industry, our mission is to provide homeowners with windows that combine durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Trust McKnight Homes to enhance your living space with our expertly crafted window solutions.

Steps to Selecting Your New Windows

Step 1

Understand Window Performance Metrics

Step 2

Explore Various Window Styles

Step 3

Choose the Right Glass and Frame Materials

U-Factor

The U-factor indicates a window’s insulation efficiency, with lower values offering better heat retention, ideal for colder climates.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

SHGC measures solar radiation allowed through a window, with lower values reducing cooling costs in warm climates.

Visible Transmittance

Visible Transmittance gauges the amount of natural light a window lets in, with higher values enhancing indoor brightness.

Explore Window Styles

Discover the variety of window styles available, each designed to meet specific aesthetic and functional needs.

Single-Hung Windows

Double-Hung Windows

Casement Windows

Glass Options Explained

Single, Double, and Triple Glazing

Choose between single, double, or triple glazing to enhance energy efficiency and noise reduction in your home.

Low-E Coating

Low-E coatings reflect heat, maintaining indoor comfort and reducing UV exposure, ideal for energy-conscious homeowners.

Tinted and Tempered Glass

Tinted glass minimizes glare and heat gain, while tempered glass offers enhanced safety with its shatter-resistant properties.

Explore Window Frame Materials

Vinyl Frames

Vinyl frames are affordable and require minimal maintenance, making them a popular choice for homeowners. They offer good energy efficiency but may not provide the classic look of wood.

Wood Frames

Wood frames offer a timeless aesthetic and excellent insulation properties. However, they require regular maintenance to prevent rot and decay.

Aluminum Frames

Aluminum frames are lightweight and durable, ideal for large window openings. They are less energy-efficient compared to other materials.

Choosing Windows for Your Climate

Climate-Based Window Selection

1

Cold Climates

For cold climates, prioritize windows with a low U-factor and double or triple glazing to retain heat. Consider high SHGC to maximize solar heat gain.

2

Warm Climates

In warm climates, select windows with a low SHGC to minimize heat gain and a high VT to allow natural light without excessive heat.

3

Moderate Climates

Moderate climates benefit from balanced windows with moderate U-factor and SHGC values, offering versatility for seasonal changes.

Installation Considerations

Accurate Rough Openings

Ensure rough openings are precisely measured to match window specifications, allowing for a snug fit and effective sealing.

Flashing and Weatherproofing

Proper flashing and sealing are crucial to prevent water infiltration and maintain window integrity over time.

Energy Star Certification

Opt for Energy Star-rated windows to enhance energy efficiency and potentially qualify for rebates, ensuring long-term savings.

Get Expert Advice from McKnight Homes