Replacement Window Guide
Replacing your windows is an important home improvement investment that boosts your property’s value, comfort, and energy efficiency. At Signature Windows + Doors, we specialize in replacement windows designed for Colorado homeowners. Our team makes the window replacement process simple and stress-free, helping you select high-quality, energy-efficient windows that fit your style, budget, and unique needs.
What does this article offer you?
- Answers to key questions about replacement windows
- Information about window types, materials, and styles
- Insights on energy efficiency and high-altitude window performance
TYPES OF REPLACEMENT WINDOWS
Living in a semi-arid and high-altitude climate impacts your windows and doors in unique ways. This guide is written with these impacts in mind and is not broadly applicable to the national window replacement market.
Replacement windows and doors are generally constructed in one of the following ways:
Vinyl is the most common material found in replacement windows and doors, but as a thermoplastic, it’s not well suited to Colorado’s climate. It expands and contracts with temperature changes, stressing seals and reducing long-term durability. More frame material is required, decreasing the size of the glass area.
Pros:
- Most widely available
- Inexpensive to manufacture
- Many national and regional options
Cons:
- Becomes brittle with age
- Reduces visible glass area
- Susceptible to UV damage and color degradation
Aluminum-clad wood windows feature a wood frame on the interior and a protective aluminum shell on the exterior. The type of aluminum matters: extruded aluminum is thicker and more impact-resistant than roll-form aluminum, making it the preferred choice for long-term performance.
Pros:
- Long-lasting painted finish
- Ideal for high-altitude and high-UV areas
- Resistant to hail damage
Cons:
- Not easily repainted
- Requires expert installation
All-wood windows are made entirely of wood, with no exterior cladding. They offer a traditional look and are often required for historic renovations or homes in preservation districts. While they provide natural beauty and architectural authenticity, modern plantation-grown wood is typically less dense and durable than old-growth wood used in older homes. Regular maintenance is essential to protect against weather and wear.
Pros:
- Classic aesthetics
- Easy to repair
- Suitable for historical applications
Cons:
- Prone to water damage
- High maintenance
- Typically the most expensive
Composite windows are made from a blend of recycled vinyl and wood fibers, creating a more sustainable alternative to traditional window materials. They offer improved insulation compared to vinyl alone but generally do not match the durability and longevity of fiberglass windows.
Pros:
- Low maintenance
- Better than vinyl for hail resistance
Cons:
- Less durable than fiberglass
- Thick frames limit glass area
- Pricey compared to fiberglass
Fiberglass windows are known for their high durability and excellent energy efficiency. They feature narrow frames that maximize glass area and provide superior resistance to weather, temperature changes, and warping over time.
Pros:
- 8x stronger than vinyl
- Impervious to water
- UV and fade resistant
Cons:
- Less suitable for large, complex, or curved designs
CHOOSING A WINDOW STYLE
Select a window style that fits your home’s architecture and your lifestyle needs. Options include:
- Double-Hung Window: Two sashes that slide vertically
- Casement Window: Hinged sash that opens outward, excellent for sealing
- Slider Window: Sashes slide horizontally, lower performance
- Awning Window: Hinged at the top, opens outward from the bottom
- Fixed Window: Non-operable; designed only to let in light
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU BUY REPLACEMENT WINDOWS
Before choosing replacement windows, ask yourself a few key questions to ensure you make the right choice for your project:
- What are the materials of my current windows?
- Knowing this helps you decide if you want to match or upgrade your window frame materials.
- Knowing this helps you decide if you want to match or upgrade your window frame materials.
- Am I going for a modern or classic aesthetic?
- Your choice impacts curb appeal and how well the windows fit your project’s architecture.
- Do I want to change the operation type?
- Different operation types affect ventilation, ease of cleaning, and energy efficiency.
Signature Windows + Doors can help you answer these questions.
ENERGY EFFICIENT WINDOWS
Claims of massive energy savings from energy efficient windows can be misleading. True efficiency depends on three key metrics:
- U-Value: Measures how well a window resists heat transfer. A lower U-value means better insulation and less heat loss during cold months.
- SHGC: Indicates how much solar radiation passes through the window. Lower SHGC values reduce unwanted heat from sunlight, especially important in sunny climates.
- Air Infiltration: Shows how much air leaks through window joints. Lower numbers mean tighter seals and improved comfort.
We advocate for performance-based choices, not exaggerated claims. Speak to our experts for transparent advice.
HIGH-ALTITUDE WINDOWS FOR MOUNTAIN HOMES
If your home is located in a high-altitude area (>5,000 feet), you’ll face unique challenges when selecting replacement windows. These challenges go beyond aesthetics and energy efficiency. At high elevations, windows must withstand intense UV exposure, large temperature swings between day and night, and significant pressure differences compared to sea level.
Most window manufacturers operate near sea level and aren’t equipped to engineer their products for high-altitude performance. Improperly designed or vented windows can experience seal failures, fogging between panes, or compromised energy performance. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a partner who understands the demands of mountain living.
At Signature Windows + Doors, we specialize in high-altitude windows that are built—and tested—for Colorado’s climate. We’ll help you choose replacement windows that deliver long-term durability, performance, and visual appeal.
HISTORIC WINDOWS
Avoid replacing historic wood windows unless it’s absolutely necessary. In many cases, preserving your original windows is not only possible, but preferred—especially when they contribute to the architectural character and value of your home.
Older wood windows, often built with dense, old-growth timber, can outperform many modern replacements when properly maintained. Rather than opting for full historic window replacement, homeowners should first consider alternative solutions that improve performance while preserving original craftsmanship:
- Interior or exterior storm panels that increase energy efficiency without altering appearance
- Upgraded glazing options to improve thermal performance while maintaining historic charm
That said, full replacement may be warranted if the windows are beyond repair or missing entirely. In such cases, Signature Windows + Doors offers guidance on historically appropriate window replacements. Our team can assess your existing windows and walk you through the best approach—whether that means preservation, restoration, or historically sensitive replacement.
WARRANTY & INSTALLATION
We provide a 7-year labor warranty in addition to manufacturer warranties. Our installers are full-time employees, Installation Masters certified, and undergo annual performance evaluations.