A Pane-Free Investment: Choosing the Best Windows for Your Colorado Home

An easy guide to finding windows

Photo of windows installed by author

One of the many important and necessary investments for homeowners is windows. We want our windows to keep our houses cool or warm, depending on season. We want them to be secure and safe. And we want them to be attractive. Here in Colorado, there are two window frames that work best windows for our semi-arid climate: fiberglass and vinyl windows. These two  materials are preferable because of their excellent energy efficiency, durability against extreme temperature fluctuations, and their ability to maintain structural integrity in our harsh conditions. 

Although Colorado is rumored to have 300 days of sunshine, we know there are many days of wind, snow, rain, and hail. Plus, temperatures can fall as low a -10 below and as high as 100 degrees. Thankfully, not in the same day. Windows need to withstand extreme temperatures and wind. 

Vinyl windows are popular, high-quality, affordable replacement windows. They are easy to clean and almost maintenance-free, offering homeowners a convenient and hassle-free option. Modern vinyl compounds offer good weather-ability, meaning they can withstand Colorado’s crazy weather. They are also energy efficient due to low thermal conductivity (the heat doesn’t come through the window), minimizing energy loss and enhancing their insulation. 

Vinyl window frames don’t need painting, and you can pick colors that will enhance your home. They resist swelling, shrinking, and peeling. They cost, depending on window size, approximately $390-835 per window, which makes them more affordable. There are some negatives with vinyl windows, though. They are less customizable for homes with unique architectural designs. They can’t be painted. And because they’re flexible, they might bow or warp under extreme temperatures. 

Your next option is fiberglass windows, which have insulated frames that are inherently temperature-proof, minimizing heat transfer and helping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.  Fiberglass frames expand and contract less than vinyl, ensuring a tight seal even in extreme temperature changes. Fiberglass can be made with a wood-like finish to achieve the look of traditional wood windows while offering better performance. 

When you’re looking at windows, consider glass options. Your first options, high-performance glass, pairs your fiberglass frame with energy-efficient glass that features low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings to further optimize insulation. There is also the number of panes you pair in your fiberglass frame.  Triple-pane windows are the most energy efficient, followed by double-pane windows, and then single-pane windows. 

Triple-pane windows have three panes of glass, with insulating gas between each pane. This reduces heat loss and cold intrusion. They do an excellent job at blocking noise. These windows cost approximately $550-1100 per window and based on size, minus installation. It’s important to consider energy efficiency though. Triple-pane windows have the potential to cut your energy costs and keep your home at a comfortable temperature, regardless of the weather outside.

Costing approximately $400-800 based on window size, double-pane windows are another good option. These windows have two panes of glass with insulating gas between them. They aren’t as energy efficient as triple-pane windows, but they are still energy efficient and keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Double-pane windows also block street noise. They might be a more budget-friendly option with similar qualities of triple-pane windows. 

The least expensive are single-pane windows. They have only one pane of glass, which makes them the least energy efficient choice. Depending on size and shape, a single-pane window costs approximately $100-400, excluding installation. Because they lack the thickness of double and triple-pane windows, even with proper installation you will lose temperature regulation in your home. 

There’s more to think about: style! Double-Hung, Casement, and Slider are options. How do you want your windows to open? 

The most common window type is double-hung, in which the window sashes move up and down. Most window manufacturers offer tilt-in sashes, which makes cleaning both sides from inside the house a cinch.

Casement windows open via crank. They stay sealed better than some varieties and generally offer a clearer view because they lack a sash bar running through the middle of the pane. However, they can be more difficult to clean than double-hung windows.

Sliding windows that go from left to right can be a good choice for areas that open onto a patio or deck. They might not seal as tightly as some windows, though, and rain will sometimes collect in the track at the bottom.

Consider brand reputation too. Look for reputable window brands known for quality construction and performance in challenging climates, like Colorado. Do your research as well. There are many sites available on the internet to help you decide which window-maker will work best for your budget and in your home. Read product reviews and company reviews before reaching out. As you’re doing your research, make sure to find out about installation. Proper installation is key to ensuring optimal window performance. 

As you think about replacing your home’s windows, consider whether you want vinyl or fiberglass frames, how many panes of glass per window, and what style would work best in your home. You need to consider budget as well. Once you have an idea, talk to three different window companies to find the best price, including installation.