How to Choose the Right Windows and Doors for Your Project

Tips for Homeowners and Land Developers

Many of our customers (whether homeowners or commercial land developers) find choosing the right windows and doors for their project to be the hardest part of the development. European windows and doors are a little different from North American windows and doors in terms of both style and function so it’s helpful to have a healthy understanding of the differences before making your selection. We’ve put together this list of tips to help you out in the process:

Rightly chosen windows and doors give a timeless appeal, elegance and class to your home. Available in a wide variety of materials, designs and styles, windows and doors add a classy touch to the room and provide a special cozy and comfy ambiance. However, the key is to find an attractive yet functional solution that blends with the interiors of your home.

Here are some of the tips to narrow down the choices and make the right selection:

1. Start by Selecting the Right Function-Type

By far the most important component of choosing new windows and doors needs to be the function you’re looking for. Your project will no doubt be limited by space and purpose. Your first priority should always be finding the appropriate windows and doors for the space your project allows for and the products that are going to make using the space the easiest. Entrance doors come in two types- slide and swing. HighQ also offers an extensive variety of European windows including tilt and turn windows, pivoting windows and casement windows. We recommend homeowners and land developers keep the following two questions in mind when making their selection; these are often the two questions we ask customers when helping them make their choice:

  1. What is the purpose of the room the windows and doors will be installed in? (i.e. kitchen, bathroom, living room, conference room, office etc.)
  2. What size is the space you’re looking to fill with a window or door? Further, how large is the room or space the window will be installed in? Is there room for a large in-ward swinging window or door?

2. Next, prioritize the Size and Materials

Once you’ve established which type of windows or doors will function best for your project, focus on the materials you need these products made of. Again, depending on the purpose of the space you may require more durable materials. Outward-facing doors and windows will need to be made of materials that are safer, more secure and that can withstand different types of weather. In general, windows and doors are available in a variety of materials such as wood, vinyl, aluminum, glass and metal filled plastic. Each one has its own set of pros and cons. For example, wooden windows offer aesthetic appeal but are quite sensitive to humidity and heat. Vinyl offers a practical choice as they are durable and easy to clean. Maintenance, durability and ease of installation are some of the features that you need to consider before making the final decision. Choose the one that offers protection, beauty and functionality to your home. HighQ windows and doors are built from the finest materials and are designed to last decades. For more information about the materials our windows are made of please contact us.

3. Keep the Structure of Your Entire Project in Mind

The next thing that you need to consider is the architectural uniqueness of your project or home. Windows and doors will have a tremendous impact on the aesthetic and resale value of your home. Before you commit to a specific type of window or door make sure that your choices will work cohesively in the home. This step often saves customers from making choices that may suit the needs of one particular space in a home but which overall may not be the best fit for the project. It’s wise to use a similar style of window and door throughout your project so the aesthetic and functionality are consistent. If you’re looking to increase the value of your home or project keep in mind that you need windows and doors that show off or highlight the best features of the building. For example, if your house has ornate columns, dormers or wood trims will add elegance to the existing features. Again, we often find that developers thing they’ve made the best selection for a room but upon reflection realize that another choice will suit the structure better overall from an investment standpoint.

4. Lastly, Look at Your Color Options

Although customers are often tempted to consider the color of their windows and doors first, it’s actually wise to make this the last consideration in the process. Often, the color of the window frame will have the least effect on the overall impact of the window. Often, customers forget to consider that the color of your windows and doors should suit both the interior and exterior of your home. As a rule, it’s wiser to opt for a more traditional color palette that will be timeless as oppose to trendy colors. HighQ also recommends selecting a color that blends in with the walls of your home as opposed to a contrasting color which many developers are tempted to do.

Don’t underestimate the significant impact that windows and doors will have on the “atmosphere” of your home. The way a home feels is greatly influenced by the windows and doors. Carefully chosen windows reflect your taste as well as personality.

If properly installed and maintained, windows and doors can offer good safety and security for your family. Choosing a reliable and educated vendor to help guide you through the process will ensure peace of mind. If you have any questions about which windows or doors to choose for your project please contact HighQ and we’ll be happy to help you with your selection.