Large picture windows save space in a home by allowing light to stream into a room from a larger portion of the window. Many home owners are unaware that one of the biggest costs involved in replacing or repairing old windows is the cost of new large picture windows. As compared with regular commercial windows, large picture windows have no moving parts, so they aren’t subject to vibration, and hence they are generally cheaper when compared to regular commercial windows. Still, you can, in most cases, trim costs even more by replacing extensive sets of sliding or casement windows with large picture windows backed by small, vented, duct-less ventilation units. Ultimately, choosing the right size window may be the most important aspect of your energy efficiency improvements.

If your house is still being built, it’s a good idea to ask the contractor for an estimate on replacement window prices before starting work. Once completed, homeowners can shop for new windows in the same way they shop for new appliances – by looking at catalogs, checking prices online, or checking with local builders. There are several things to consider when shopping. For one thing, not all new construction has to include new windows. Even if you are replacing older windows, replacement window prices run considerably lower if the home is being built as an upgrade to the existing property.

Retailers will quote you the retail cost of the actual window, including the glass unit, mounting hardware, cleaning and repair materials, and labor. Often, though, the actual cost of the glass and the other components will be less than suggested in the quote. The actual cost of installing large picture windows may include installation charges as well, depending on whether your property is remodeled or merely upgraded to include the window. A large glass unit can cost anywhere from one hundred to three hundred dollars per square foot, so take that into consideration when comparing prices with other comparable properties.

Another important factor in comparing large picture windows prices with similar fixtures is whether or not the glass is lead free. The National Electrical Contractors Association (NEC) recommends that any house be built with at least some lead-free glazing, and a recent study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that ninety percent of all glass sold on the market was not lead-free. As with anything else, you get what you pay for; cheap glass may be more susceptible to breaking or leaking than more expensive products. Many homeowners who have replaced their old windows with these alternative materials report that their energy efficiency is higher than they had originally thought, and the windows look great as well.

There are two types of glazing commonly used in large picture windows: safety glass and polycarbonate safety glass. Safety glass is usually yellow tinted, so it is easier for people to spot and identify. Some also have special coatings that improve its abrasion and impact resistance. Some of this glazing can also be installed with double-panes and multi-layer security systems to further enhance its durability and safety.

However, the biggest drawback to safety glass is its price tag. Windows made from this type of glazing can cost up to three times more than framed windows. Most home and building owners would be hard-pressed to justify the cost of such a luxury when there are other more affordable options. Fortunately, polycarbonate safety glass is both inexpensive and available in a wide range of colors, sizes, and textures that allow it to match most decors.

If you need to replace a few small windows, don’t overlook large picture windows. They provide a classic, regal look that can also increase the value of your property. These larger windows may also improve the insulation value of your home and reduce your heating and air conditioning bills by as much as twenty percent. In fact, many builders consider these windows to be energy-efficient and some cities and states even require you to make them mandatory.

There are many reasons why homeowners may opt to install large picture windows instead of smaller ones. The cost of this glazing is generally more affordable, it has more benefits and better durability than smaller alternatives and it has a classic look that enhances any home or business. However, even if your home is old or you are building a new home, you may want to consider replacing some small windows. With glazing made from the latest technology, replacing small windows with large panes can be more cost-effective and safer than you may think.