Replacing the windows in a large Utah home isn’t simply a matter of finding the “best window.”

When you’re purchasing 15, 20, 25 or more windows, small differences in price, performance and options become much more important. The best choice should balance energy performance, appearance, durability, installation quality, warranty and overall project cost.

Utah Valley Window & Door

801-899-9046

Here’s what homeowners should compare.

Start With Window Performance

Two of the most useful numbers when comparing replacement windows are U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient.

U-Factor measures heat transfer through the complete window. Generally, a lower U-Factor indicates better insulating performance.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how much solar heat passes through the window.

Utah homes experience both cold winter temperatures and significant summer sun, so both numbers deserve consideration.

Don’t rely solely on terms such as “energy efficient” or “Low-E.” Ask for the actual ratings of the window you’re considering.

Double-Pane vs. Triple-Pane

Triple-pane isn’t automatically the best choice for every large home.

High-performance double-pane windows can provide very good thermal performance while keeping the overall project cost lower.

Triple-pane can improve insulating performance, but remember that you’re multiplying the upgrade across perhaps 20 or 30 windows.

Compare the performance improvement against the total additional cost before deciding.

Call Us Today! 801-899-9046

Choose Window Styles Based on the Room

A whole-house project doesn’t mean every window needs to be identical.

Different rooms may benefit from different styles.

Common choices include:

• Sliding windows
• Single-hung windows
• Double-hung windows
• Casement windows
• Picture windows
• Awning windows
• Architectural shapes
• Bay and bow windows
• Garden windows

Bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms and large living areas may have very different ventilation, view and egress requirements.

Large Picture Windows

Large Utah homes frequently have substantial picture windows designed to take advantage of mountain or valley views.

For oversized windows, consider more than appearance.

Glass performance, structural requirements, direct sun exposure and installation all become increasingly important as the glass gets larger.

Your contractor should verify that the proposed window is appropriate for the opening.

Consider Sun Exposure

Not every side of your house receives the same amount of sunlight.

Large west- and south-facing windows can receive substantial solar exposure.

Selecting an appropriate glass package can help control solar heat gain without unnecessarily upgrading every window in the house.

This is another reason to evaluate the house as a complete project rather than simply ordering the same configuration for every opening.

Black, Bronze or White?

Color can dramatically affect a large home’s appearance.

White remains a versatile and economical choice, while black and bronze windows can complement modern, transitional and contemporary exteriors.

Premium colors typically add cost.

When you’re buying 20 or more windows, determine the total cost of the color upgrade before making the decision.

Pay Attention to the Warranty

For a large project, warranty coverage is particularly important.

Ask:

• How long are parts covered?
• Is seal failure covered?
• Is glass covered?
• Is accidental glass breakage included?
• Is the warranty transferable?

At Utah Valley Window & Door we offer manufacturer’s limited product warranty.

Installation Is Just as Important as the Window

You can buy an excellent replacement window and still have problems if it’s installed incorrectly.

The installer needs to account for the existing opening, exterior materials, sealing, water management and interior and exterior finishing.

For a whole-house project, compare the contractor as carefully as you compare the window.

What Are the Best Windows for Your Large Utah Home?

There isn’t one window that’s best for every house.

The right choice depends on the home’s architecture, window sizes, sun exposure, desired appearance, budget and performance goals.

At Utah Valley Window & Door, we can evaluate each opening and help you compare window styles, glass packages and options for a whole-house project.

Replacing 10, 20, 30 or more windows?

Request a whole-house window estimate from Utah Valley Window & Door.

Call Us Today! 801-899-9046

Frequently Asked Questions

Should every window in my house have the same glass?

Not necessarily. Different exposures can have different performance priorities. At Utah Valley Window & Door we can help homeowners determine which glass packages make sense for the home.

Is triple-pane best for a large Utah home?

Not automatically. Compare its U-Factor and total cost against high-performance double-pane options.

Are black windows worth the additional cost?

That’s largely an architectural and budget decision. Black windows can dramatically change a home’s appearance, but the upgrade cost becomes significant across a large number of windows.

Should I replace every window at once?

If most windows are similar in age and condition, a whole-house project can make sense. Newer windows that are performing properly may not need replacement.