Editors of CPi - Black & Decker Heres How Windows: Big Savings at a Bargain Price

Few remodeling jobs have a greater impact on the livability and value of your home than replacing, adding or repairing windows. There are many paybacks: improved home value, better security, lower energy costs, increased light and ventilation, and added curb appeal. Best of all, if you have moderate tool skills, window projects are well within your reach, saving you considerable costs over having the work done by contractors.

Unlike the larger, more expensive volumes, this book doesnt include background information on cutting holes in walls or expanding living areas. What it does do is give you step-by-step information on how to change the look of your home by installing different types of windows.

Want to add some indoor greenery? Check out the Garden Window on may be just what youre looking for.

And if you arent ready to replace a window just yet, there are steps that can be taken to repair or improve operation of your current windows. Theres even a section on inexpensive ways to reduce energy loss through your windows or patio doors.

Window replacement can be very expensive, but with Heres How: Windows, you may find that youre able to save thousands of dollars doing it yourself, and giving your home an upgrade.

Window Styles

The following pages contain examples of some of the types of windows you may consider for your home.

Your imagination may lead you to other options and combinations of options.

Casement windows pivot on hinges mounted on the side. They have a contemporary look and offer good ventilation. Whether your window has exposed or concealed sash locks, casements have a reputation for weather-tight construction.

Double-hung windows slide up and down and have a traditional appearance. The newer-style, spring-mounted operating mechanism is virtually trouble-free. The dividers (muntins) may divide individual panes of glass or snap on for decoration.

Bay windows consist of three parts: a central window, usually fixed, parallel to the existing wall, and two side windows (often casements or double-hungs), each set at a 30, 45, or 60 angle. The deep sill area makes a handy shelf space.

Bow windows have four or more units set at incremental angles to one another. The effect is a subtle, curved look. When large units are used, the bow window may become an extension of the room, even taking the place of a wall.

Garden windows bring the outside in by creating shelf space and letting in sunshine as well as fresh air. Many types are easy-to-install kits that fit into an existing window space. They can be added to any room in the home.

Sliding windows are inexpensive and require little maintenance, but they provide restricted ventilation since only half the window can be open at one time. However, that may be an acceptable tradeoff for a large, unobstructed view.

Awning windows pivot on hinges mounted at the top. Awning windows work well in combination with other windows, and because they provide ventilation without letting moisture in, they are a good choice in damp climates.

Fixed windows do not open, and they can be any size and shape used in any room. They may be flanked by other fixed windows or opening styles such as awning, casement, or double-hung.

Window groupings in an endless number of shapes and sizes may be used to dramatic effect in a home. They can become the focal point of a room, serving to highlight a spectacular view and let in lots of sunshine.

Skylights introduce extralight into rooms that have limited wall space. Skylights serve as solar collectors on sunny days, and those that also can be opened improve ventilation in the home.

Sliding patio doors offer good visibility and lighting. Because they slide on tracks and require no floor space for operation, they are a good choice for cramped spaces where swinging doors do not fit.

French doors open on hinges, so your room design must allow space for them to swing. Weather-tight models join indoor and outdoor living areas, while indoor models link two rooms.

1. New Window Sash

If youre looking to replace or improve old single- or double-hung windows, consider using sash-replacement kits. They can give you energy-efficient, maintenance-free windows without changing the outward appearance of your home or breaking your budget.

Unlike prime window replacement, which changes the entire window and frame, or pocket window replacement, in which a complete window unit is set into the existing frame, sash replacement uses the original window jambs, eliminating the need to alter exterior or interior walls or trim. Installing a sash-replacement kit involves little more than removing the old window stops and sashes and installing new vinyl jamb liners and wood or vinyl sash. And all of the work can be done from inside your home.