When it comes to choosing a remodeling project, one of the most significant changes you can make to enhance the look and comfort of your home is upgrading your windows.

We talked to Tracy Nadiger, Director of Marketing and Customer Experience for All Weather Windows, about the types of windows you should choose to make the biggest impact.

READ MORE: Trends in window frame colours

Mixing performance and style

With multiple operating styles to choose from, there’s a window type to suit any design preference.

If you’re looking to stay on-trend, Nadiger told us to watch for large windows with more glass and less frame and interior colour, where the inside of the window frame complements the interior design of your home.

“Colour isn’t the only thing that can change your curb appeal,” said Nadiger, noting that mixing and matching operating styles is an option to consider. “A big picture window versus stacked awnings or other combinations can really change how things look from the street,” she added.

And if you’re trying to create more airflow in your home, casement windows are a good fit, since they catch the breeze and force it inside.

A home with a view

Not to be overlooked, another important element in new windows is the glass itself. Choosing the right glass will have a huge effect on the energy efficiency of your home, and Nadiger has given us a lot of clear guidance in this area.

When choosing glass, consider your surroundings. Is your home on a busy, noisy street? Is it a south- or west-facing window where the sun will stream in for most of the day? Are you interested in reducing your air conditioning dependence in the summer or your heating costs in the winter? There are lots of options.

Triple pane glass has better insulation values than double pane glass.

“Triple pane windows also reduce noise which a lot of people don’t realize. Obviously, they are more energy efficient. The added cost is worth it!” said Nadiger.

Glass with coatings that create a higher solar heat gain (SHGC) will allow you to take advantage of the sun’s heat from your south and west-facing windows, while a lower SHGC will leave your home cool and comfortable in the summer. For example, a LowE 180 coating reduces heat loss by reflecting heat back into the room and allows a large percentage of outside solar energy to pass into your home, which is beneficial in the winter.

The Sunstop LoE 270 coating blocks out the sun’s heat, light and UV rays. Nadiger told us it’s ideal for south- and west-facing windows because it keeps your home cool and comfortable in the summer to help reduce air conditioning costs. The coating also improves insulation to help keep your home warmer in the winter.

The bottom line, according to Nadiger, is that homeowners should always consider the direction your windows face, operating style, window ratings and energy efficiency.

For more information about windows and to start your home renovation, visit your local Co-op Home Centre today.