Windows are one of the most important parts of any home. Not only do they decide how much sunlight and weather get into your home, but they also seal the deal on the style of your property and how people view it. If you’re trying to figure out what type of windows your home needs and are at a loss of how to pick from all of the options: these are the top things to ask yourself.

What Can You Afford?

Budget is one of the largest considerations any homeowner can make. If you’re googling questions like ‘how much do storm windows cost?’ you might think that updating your windows is out of your reach, but it’s not. Not only are there more affordable types of windows, but you can also get payment plans, go through credit, or

take out a loan to update them. Replacing your windows is going to help your monthly bills because it ensures that.

What Styles Catch Your Eye?

There are dozens of styles of windows that might catch anyone’s eyes. From fixed windows to glass block windows and awning windows, many of these depend on personal taste. Some people can’t stand the look of a Palladian window set, while for others, this is the style that would make their house feel like a home.

Do you like windows that stand out and are a visual interest all their own, or are you more interested in window replacement inserts that make an as little visual impact as possible and are there to simply be seen through? Consider this carefully before making your choice.

Do You Need Protection?

Do you live in an area that’s prone to storms and rough weather? If so, you may want to look into getting a set of stormproof windows that can handle that. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to live along a coastline; even in cities like Chicago, there are storms year-round that can be rough on the exterior of a home. Carefully choose windows that can handle the weather you face, and consider applying sealants that can help these windows weather any storms.

Is This for a Basement?

If your windows are for a basement, there can be other considerations to make. For one, many go for classic block windows for basements to stop people from easily seeing into your home. On the other hand, if you plan on making a living space down there, it’s not going to be as good an idea to block out a ton of sunlight. Either way, the windows will have to be able to stay sealed against water and moisture.

Will This Window Be Opened?

Are you planning on this window ever being opened? Is it in a space where people could reach it or a bedroom where zoning would call for it to be opened? Consider this carefully, since having to replace it or spending too much on a window you’ll never open can be a waste of money. Although you should still place a window in these areas, make sure it’s designed to be used the way it will be.

Is This Window for Decor?

If the window won’t be opened and is entirely for aesthetics, is it going to need extra cleaning and care? Consider where you want the window, if you want it to be able to be seen through entirely, or if you want it to be stained, fogged, or blocked glass in any other way. You can create a visually interesting wall of windows that still lets in light, without allowing people to see through it or allowing in too much light as to make the room uncomfortably warm, with the right planning.

What Direction Does the Wall Face?

If your wall faces south and you deal with warm summers, you’ll want to invest in a window that allows you to let out some of the warmer air without inviting in all of the hot sunlight, like a double-hung or hopper window. On the other hand, if it’s a northern-facing window, you can have a bow or bay window to allow in as much sunlight as you want. It all depends on where the window is facing.

Of course, this also depends on personal taste. If you love a very warm home and aren’t opposed to letting in tons of sunlight regardless of the time of day, you could easily install a wall of windows on the southern side of your home if you wanted. Consider what interests you.

Your Windows Say A Lot About Your Home

Whether you’re considering adding new windows to bring in more natural light, or you’re building a new home, and you’re not sure where to start: these ideas are things you should think through. Your windows will decide how people view your home and how you see out of your home, so make a good choice.

Max Shafer is a contributor to the Innovative Building Materials blog. He is a content writer for the construction and home improvement industries with an interest in landscaping, outdoor remodeling, and interior design. Max is focused on educating homeowners, contractors, and architects on innovative materials and methods of construction that increase property value, improve sustainability, and create a warm and welcoming ambiance.