Every home should have functional doors and windows. These parts symbolize new opportunities and liberation, so you must take the time to choose the best ones for your home. On a practical note, a house without proper windows and doors is simply a box without openings. And if you pick the wrong ones, you may encounter some issues in the future.
So, sit back and read this guide before browsing for doors and windows. Here’s what you need to consider for your home while it’s still in construction.
1. Function
In terms of functionality, you must consider the rooms and the openings. The purpose of a room matters when you choose your doors and windows. One room may be a dedicated home office, while another will be a public space like a living room. You can move on to the openings when you’re sure of what each room is for. Thankfully, most windows and doors often come in sliding or swinging options that you can find almost anywhere.
If you want a room with good illumination throughout the day, pick a swinging or sliding window that allows outside light inside. In this case, awning windows are excellent options to add more natural light to a basement without sacrificing wall space. On the other hand, large and wide casement windows are ideal for bedrooms and kitchens.
Most traditional homes often use swinging doors. But sliding Crittall doors are also great for easy access from indoors to areas like the backyard. Bifold doors are excellent indoors for separating a kitchen from a dining or living room. Meanwhile, pivot or French doors may serve as perfect main entrances for homes following particular aesthetics.
2. Size
Windows and doors come in various sizes option depending on the room where they’ll be installed. Others options are more flexible and can be installed anywhere. Your privacy preferences may also dictate how small or large you want your home’s openings will be.
Massive windows that almost take up the space of a wall allow you to have a better view of the outside. Yet you can maintain a sense of seclusion by installing thick curtains. Many homeowners still prefer small windows to keep to themselves. Openings of such a size are usually better for smaller living spaces and private areas like bathrooms. However, it’s not odd to see modern home designs incorporate small windows on all sides.
If you decide on small windows, your doors shouldn’t follow suit. They should always be wide enough for their intended audience. Typically, doors leading into rooms allow passage for one to two people at a time. Alternatively, the main entrance doors can be bigger. Some large doors, like sliding glass ones, can also double as windows. You can consider those openings if you’re on a budget or prefer dual-purpose installations at home.
3. Materials And Features
Windows and doors are made of different materials, each with pros and cons. Wooden openings, for example, are fantastic for traditional and rustic homes. But they don’t always fare well in extreme weather and require regular maintenance. On the other hand, aluminum and PVC usually have a longer lifespan yet fit in best with contemporary aesthetics.
No matter the type you choose, you must still give your home’s openings occasional checkups to ensure they work fine. Window and door hinges can deteriorate over time, and you may also need to update weatherstrips and frames when necessary. Maintaining the quality of the openings helps lengthen their lifespan and protect your home from the elements.
Other things you should consider are the openings’ extra features. For instance, you can tint windows to offer privacy and additional UV protection. Doors can also have conventional peepholes and knockers if you think modern doorbells and cameras don’t suit your home’s overall design.
4. Climate
Your choice of doors and windows depends on your location’s climate. As mentioned, some materials do better in certain weather conditions than others. It’s best to choose the appropriate openings to maintain a comfortable temperature inside.
Casement and slider windows provide decent ventilation if you live somewhere warm and humid. If heavy winter snowfall is expected in your area, double or single-hung windows made of fiberglass or vinyl can insulate indoor heat. You can also glaze your windows for improved energy savings and reduced noise.
Doors follow the same principle. Like windows, fiberglass works best in keeping a home warm. Steel and solid wood are also viable alternatives. Screen doors are the champion choice for homes in humid areas. The screen lets cold breezes freely enter and exit, circulating fresh air. You can also install a storm door in front of the screen door to protect it from strong winds.
5. Color And Design
Lastly, choose the right colors and designs for your openings. Visual features still play an essential part in your search for the right windows and doors. A door or window that doesn’t match your home’s aesthetic will stick out like a sore thumb. So, feel free to decide how you want your doors, windows, and customized cabinetries to look. It’s arguably the best part of the process.
If picking colors isn’t your strongest skill, you can consult your home’s designer or settle for neutral hues. Brown, white, or black frames will always stay in style and complement any palette.
Whatever you decide, it pays to keep your doors and windows spotless at all times. Cleanliness raises visual appeal, whether your home is colorful or monochromatic.
Final Thoughts
Windows and doors are usually the first things people see when they visit your home. Therefore, take time to choose the best ones. The proper openings will help make your home secure, comfortable, and beautiful.
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