If your window replacement plan is turning out like it needed something extra, consider feature windows. In today’s post, window replacement company Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska takes a look at what feature windows can do for your home.

What Are Feature Windows?

Feature windows are windows that are meant to create visual interest by way of placement, or by a unique shape or texture. Clerestory windows are a good example of the former, as it’s designed to provide natural light in spots where standard window sizes wouldn’t fit. On homes with tall ceilings, clerestory windows can add a cathedral-like feel to an indoor space. Stained glass windows are a popular example of the latter, because of their striking visual effect.

For most homes, specialty windows are the most practical choice. Specialty windows are fixed windows that do not have a standard, four-sided shape. Curved, triangular and octagonal shapes are among the many possible configurations that can be done with specialty windows. They can be combined with standard replacement windows, but they can be more striking when installed as feature windows.

Benefits of Feature Windows

The primary function of feature windows is to add a focal point to your home. Gables and curb-facing windows, as well as common rooms like the kitchen and living room, can benefit from having a feature window or two. A feature window can also be used to “frame” or “crop” a view, like a lighthouse or a similar landmark. Custom shapes can go with certain themes: circular windows, for example, look great in a home with a nautical theme.

If you are looking for off-the-shelf feature windows, you may end up having a hard time looking for ones that match your specifications, especially if you need them to match your existing windows. This is where a custom window company like Renewal by Andersen comes in: whether you need a solitary feature window or a matching set of new windows, we can build them to your specifications, down to custom colors and hardware. You’ll also benefit from features like improved energy efficiency, low maintenance requirements and one of the strongest warranties in the industry.

Considering getting feature windows for your next window replacement project? Learn more about what our window installers can do for you! Call Renewal by Andersen of Alaska at (907) 205-5100 or (907) 312-7597, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We serve communities in Kenai Peninsula, The Valley, Fairbanks and Anchorage, AK.

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Budget planning can be the most challenging part of a window replacement project — it can even be downright daunting if one doesn’t know where to begin. In today’s post, Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska gets you started with your budget planning with a list of the factors that affect window replacement cost.

1. Window styles. Any window style can be installed onto any wall opening. This is especially true if you include custom replacement windows among your options. However, the per-unit cost varies between styles. Some styles are more complex to build than others because of moving parts and hardware.

2. Number of windows being replaced. It goes without saying that more windows will correspondingly increase the project cost. However, if you are thinking of having all the windows in your home replaced over time, it may cost you more in terms of labor cost — not to mention that some window contractors offer discounts for bulk replacement projects.

3. Off-the-shelf vs. custom windows. Pre-built or off-the-shelf replacement windows may shave some dollars off your budget, but consider the trade-offs: you’d be stuck with what’s available, which can make it difficult if you are looking for specific styles or want to match other windows in your home. Custom replacement windows, on the other hand, can be more expensive, but the flexibility they offer can offset the difference in cost.

4. Frame materials and glass. A lot of technology goes into replacement windows, from insulated glass, which utilizes multiple panes to slow down thermal transfer, to low-maintenance frames, to factory-applied custom colors. The more advanced the windows are, the more costly they can be. However, consider features like energy efficiency, which can help you recoup the cost of window replacement down the line.

5. Unexpected repairs. As with most types of home renovations, some problems — usually structural in nature — reveal themselves after the project has already started. Sometimes window installers find rot, damage — even installation mistakes committed by a previous contractor — after removing the old windows. Such issues will need to be fixed before the new windows can be installed, and as the repair costs wouldn’t be included in the original contract price, it will be added after the fact. Having a separate contingency budget that’s worth about 10% to 20% of the contract price can help keep your window replacement project on track. This is also a good practice for any other home improvement that you’re planning to do.

Our consultants at Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska can help you plan your window replacement project and ensure no surprises. Call us today at (907) 205-5100 or (907) 312-7597, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We serve communities in Fairbanks and Anchorage, AK, and the rest of Kenai Peninsula and The Valley.

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