If you’re ready for replacement windows in San Bernadino, CA, you might feel less ready than your home actually is. Many homeowners have never gone through the process before and, in fact, most only go through with it once. That means you probably haven’t spent a lot of time figuring out how the process works and when you need to, you don’t know where to start. If you don’t know much about cars, going to a car dealership can feel very intimidating. You might feel the same when you try to get new windows. When you learn some of the terms you will likely hear, you will feel much more relaxed about moving forward. Here are some of the terms you will likely run into:

Double Hung Windows

Double hung windows have two sashes that can open and close. The bottom ones open up and the top one opens down. They can both be opened at one time, or just one at a time. They can also tilt into the house to make cleaning the outside easy from inside the house. They are a very popular type of window today.

Casement Windows

This is the other popular window style. IT opens and closes fully from top to bottom by cranking out of the house with a hand crank. These windows are popular for their energy efficiency and the great view they give, among other reasons.

Energy Star

Even if you’ve never looked at windows very closely before, you probably have heard of Energy Star labels. This non-profit organization sets forth a set of efficiency standards in different products, including windows. When you see an Energy Star label, you know the windows meet a certain standard in your region of the country. It’s smart to look at windows that have this label and then compare their specifics from there.

U-Value or U-Factor

This is one of the important readings you will see on the window label. It indicates how much heat transfers through the material on the frame. IF the U-value is low, the heat flow is slower, and the window insulates your home better. You’ll want a low number on this rating.

Low-E Glass

This type of glass has a thin, metallic coating on it that reflects heat back to where it came from. This is great in the summer because you can get natural light, but block the heat. In the winter, the heat inside your home is reflected back in, which lowers your energy use. This upgrade is an energy efficiency and comfort upgrade.

These are just a few of the terms you will likely hear as you search for replacement windows in San Bernadino, CA, but don’t feel intimidated by other terms because the professionals at J.R. Door & Window will help you in any way they can. Call us at (909) 949-9902 and we’ll answer questions by phone and explain any terms you need to know more about. Visit us in person at 615 N Benson Ave Unit I Upland, CA 91786.