Depending on the size and materials, custom windows will cost at least $100 to $300 more per window. However, while they are generally more expensive, custom windows allow much more flexibility in style and can even increase your home's energy efficiency, saving you money in the long run. Because there are so many options for window glass and frames, it’s easy to choose custom windows based on your specific needs. Read on to learn more about custom windows.
Reasons to Choose Custom Windows
There are many reasons your home may require custom windows. One main reason people opt for custom windows has to do with window size. Often, the original window opening is an unusual size, which means that standard windows will not fit. While there is the option to make the opening larger or smaller to fit the window, it is generally a complicated and expensive process.
Another reason many homeowners switch to custom windows is style. Custom windows can be useful for homes that are historical or particularly modern. Custom windows allow you to adjust your windows to match the the style of your home.
This custom home window wall is a dramatic example of the difference custom windows can make. | © CC BY 2.0 flickr.com / Brock Builders
Glass/Glazing for Custom Windows
Insulated window glass features two to three panes with gas in between each pane for extra insulation. This is ideal for homeowners who live in particularly cold or hot areas and are concerned with energy costs. Similarly, window glass with low-emissivity coatings helps to control heat loss, reducing your energy bill.
If your home is vulnerable to weather threats such as strong winds and extreme temperatures, or if you live in an area that is prone to break-ins, tempered glass is an ideal option for your custom windows. Tempered glass crumbles rather than shatters, making it one of the safest options for custom windows.
For homes in warm, sunny climates, consider spectrally selective glazing. This type of glazing allows in as much sunlight as possible while preventing the transmission of as much solar heat as possible, keeping your home bright and cool.
Finally, decorative glass can be a great choice to truly customize your windows and add a unique and beautiful centerpiece to your home.
Frames for Custom Windows
Depending on your personal preferences, there are several frame material options available for your custom windows. Vinyl frames are popular for their durability, but can wear down when faced with radical temperatures. Wood frames are a great way to give your home a classic look, but can rot and warp when faced with precipitation. Fiberglass frames are resistant to fluctuating temperatures and high levels of moisture. They are also extremely low-maintenance.
Bottom Line: Custom Windows for Creativity and Energy Efficiency
Whether you choose them for aesthetic reasons or to fit a space of unusual size or shape in your home, custom windows are a great opportunity to personalize your living space. If you live in a region with intense weather, custom windows can also help protect and insulate your home. Because there are so many options available, it’s possible to plan around your environment to make your home safer and more energy efficient.
