Wallet-friendly, space-saving window remodeling projects

Windows are an important aspect of the home. Their size, positioning, structure and décor can influence its ambience and atmosphere. In addition, they are the source of natural light, and can affect room temperature. And although many homeowners often overlook this important element, windows are a great feature to focus on when they’re looking to remodel or upgrade their home.

There are many ways you can adjust and alter windows that will not only improve your home’s value, but also enhance your everyday comfort and enjoyment. Here are some of the best ways to remodel your windows that help both your wallet and home:

Window replacements
If you own an old home, your windows may be outdated and, therefore, not as well-insulated as they could be. Window drafts or water leaks can result in costly damages, not to mention high utility bills. Some signs your home may need new windows is if you can feel cold air drafts, room temperatures vary wildly or your energy bills fluctuate. Investing in new window installations can help increase the energy efficiency of your home and lead to a number of cost-savings opportunities. 

Watch the video below to learn more about how replacing your windows can help you save money:

As Alure Exteriors Assistant Sales Manager Bob Sanisvero explained in the video, the newer window products available today can sometimes help homeowners save as much as 5 to 10 times more on energy bills than single pane windows. The reason is because the glass used in these installations reflects heat and keeps it within the home during the winter, and in the summer, helps reflect it out the house.

The construction and installation process involved in a new window replacement will depend on the specific product you choose. Here are are a handful of windows you may want to consider above other options if your goal is to also make the room more spacious:

• Bay windows: Bay windows add dimension and depth to a room, as well as allow extra sunlight to enter its space. Ultrashield windows are a high quality option to consider since they have some of the lowest air infiltration rates in the industry. These windows offer 50 percent more weather-stripping than other alternatives. You also have the option to choose from a variety of styles, including four, five or six panel assemblies, and 30 degree or 45 degree configurations.
• Bow windows: One of the best ways to instantly make a room feel more spacious and airy is to add additional lights.With bow lights, you have the option of going four, five or six wide. 
• Garden windows: Similar to bay and bow windows, garden windows allow more natural light to enter the home, typically in a kitchen. The big difference is that garden windows are smaller than bay windows, and are often a place where plants or flowers are kept, acting as a mini greenhouse.

Bow windows can make a room feel more open and airy.

With both bow and bay installations, the windows are built out. This actually gives you more room to work with – allowing you to use that carved out area for whatever you need, be it a window seat, sitting area or something else!

Window seats, shelves and storage
Consider the areas immediately above, below and on the sides of your windows. What are they being used for? In most cases, the answer is nothing. The trick to maximizing the space in rooms is to take advantage of areas that may be seemingly unusable or underutilized. The wall space adjacent to windows, as well as the area between the top of the window frame and the ceiling, are great places to install shelving units. 

Another option is build a window seat. Installing a bench in front of your windows can double as additional seating and storage. This can be particularly helpful in rooms where people hang out the most, such as the living room. The element provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance, and can be designed in a way that is consistent with the existing flow of the room. Furthermore, it also provides you with a place to store things that would otherwise be an eyesore or space-waster.

To learn more about what to look for in window replacements, download our guide: