Whether you are looking to hire a home builder or thinking of purchasing a constructed home from a developer, it is important for you to know the quality and types of windows that are about to be installed.
For a structure that is about to be built, you usually have the option to make adjustments if the original plan was to use builder-grade windows. However, if you are purchasing an already-constructed home from a builder, knowing the quality and types of windows will help you decide if the price given to you is worth it.
To help you make the right decisions, we at Ontario Window Reviews, have put together a guide in which we talk about the different kinds of builder-grade windows there are. We will also discuss the different types of windows builders use, along with their pros and cons.
Let’s get started!
From the outside, there are no glaringly obvious differences between brand new builder-grade windows and brand new premium-grade windows. However, time will expose how far apart they are in terms of quality.
Builder-grade windows, also known as contractor windows, are usually stripped down to the bare necessities. They are also made using low-grade materials. Typically, these are the default types of windows installed by builders and developers, no matter what shape they take on – whether they are casement windows, slider windows, awning windows, and so on. It’s no surprise that builder-grade windows have a lifespan of only five to 10 years and their warranties are just as short-lived.
On the other side of the spectrum are premium-grade windows. These are windows that are built to last. They are made of high-quality materials, which is typically vinyl. Unlike builder-grade windows, most premium-grade windows meet or even exceed the Energy Star criteria. They also tend to boast other benefits such as:
Premium-grade windows are also made by trusted window manufacturers who offer longer warranty periods; some even have a factory lifetime warranty.
Oftentimes, finding out who the window manufacturer is gives you a good idea whether the windows are builder-grade or premium-grade. Whether you are looking to purchase a home or have one that is already being constructed by a builder, it pays to ask.
After you’ve ascertained that your home-to-be can have premium-grade windows, it’s time to take a closer look at the types of windows that builders use. In the next section, we talk about these types of windows, as well as their pros and cons that will affect your home experience.
Slider windows, whether builder-grade or premium-grade, are relatively more affordable when compared to hinged windows. Many builders and developers opt for this type of window.
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Casement windows are usually installed in higher-priced homes with a contemporary design. Casement windows are typically more costly than slider windows and hung windows. They open like a door, having a hinge on the side that allows the window panel to swing open.
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Awning windows are like casement windows turned on their side. These windows have a hinge at the top that allows the window to open outward from the bottom. Typically, they are used in the attic. When installed on a sloped roof, these windows keep out raindrops even when fully open thanks to the window panel that swings up.
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Single-hung windows are cheaper than their double-hung counterparts, which is why they are commonly chosen by builders and developers. These windows have a panel that slides up, and a top panel that stays fixed in place.
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These windows are designed to let in more natural light, thereby making the home brighter and more appealing. However, these windows do not open. They can be placed in areas that are typically poorly lit, such as staircase landings, doorways, corners, and hallways.
They are a popular choice for builders who want to extend the glass area of windows. Because of extension purposes, picture windows are typically incorporated into a window combination. For example, they can be placed between two sliders or two casement windows.
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Now that you know all about the types of windows builders use, what are your next steps?
If you’ve found out that your home-to-be has (or will have) builder-grade windows, you can take the next step and upgrade by getting premium-grade windows today. Check out our list of the top-rated and most trusted window companies in Ontario!
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