Many choose to replace their existing windows with European windows. These look great and offer a sense of style as well as increased insulation. The European variety is available in many materials including aluminum, wood, vinyl, metal and fiberglass. Many of these windows are very similar to vinyl replacement windows. Here is how to select your new windows.

European windows are of premium quality, rated best in class A. This means they are resistant to fading and cracking. Find 200 most cost and energy efficient glazing choices. European windows for Canada and the U.S.

The most attractive feature of European windows are the double-hinged, versatile opening system. Unlike single hung, slider, and casement styles, European ones feature 2 separate open modes. For a healthy operating environment, you may want to consider a double hung or tilt and turn variety. With a tilt and turn you can tilt the window out completely and still access the interior.

Many double hung and tilting variety European windows have a 1 way valve which makes it very easy to regulate the flow of air from the inside. You can also find a variety of easy access side ports for cleaning and maintenance purposes. An advantage of the easy access ports is increased airflow and better insulation. In addition, this gives the option of selecting either side of the sash for ventilation purposes.

Slider and casement designs are available in many varieties from the original design options found on the original windows. These are usually single hung or double hung in style. In addition, sliding and tilting doors are also common with these European windows. In general, the design options are more limited in terms of style than are the options found on the original American windows. However, the doors do have more design flexibility than the sashes.

From an energy standpoint, many of these European windows open inwards because of their design flexibility. Double-hung and sliding doors create less air resistance and allow better and more efficient use of cooling and heating than single hung and tilt and turn doors. Additionally, in many climates warm air vents in the sashes become necessary to keep the home warm during the winter months. Also, many of the vent areas that allow for greater flow of air can be sealed off to maintain optimal temperatures.

As a result of their design options and the ability to provide more air flow, most of these windows provide energy savings through the European double/slat-track mechanism. This mechanism allows for proper ventilation of a home and in some cases, increased energy savings can be realized as a result. In most homes today, there is often a forced air opening in the center of the home; however, tilt mode, sliding and tilt-up styles provide a healthy weatherproof ventilation system in the center of the home while the traditional hinged in-between styles provide little or no air flow in this area. Additionally, many European windows tilt inwards or outward to provide for better drainage of indoor air.

For homeowners in hot climates, both tilt and swing styles provide a comfortable airflow from the front of the home but will also help prevent heat loss through the roof. For additional energy savings, in-swing double action styles will help to improve circulation in the home as well as improving insulation on the home’s walls. For those homeowners attempting to purchase new homes, it is important to check out the tilt and turn features of each window to determine which one best meets your needs. When purchasing old homes, it is important to note the tilt of the European windows available as the American version may offer a similar feature but not the same. If you are unsure about which type would work best in your home, ask an expert to help you determine what type of European windows would best fit your home.