According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 20% of the country’s population will be over the traditional retirement age by 2029. Many homeowners are choosing to spend their later years at home instead of in assisted living facilities, which accounts for the surge in popularity of upgrades like walk-in toilets and grab bars. If you are among these homeowners, then here are the aging-in-place features you should look for in your replacement windows.
Easy to Operate Windows
Our hands lose their strength as we age; therefore, you will need windows that can be easily opened from the inside with minimal effort. Sliding windows with simple latches certainly fit the bill. In comparison, other window styles may require two hands (double hung windows) or more effort (casement windows) to open.
There’s a certain rule of thumb that interior designers follow when choosing fixtures and door handles for aging-in-place upgrades: if it can be used without exerting a full grip, then it can be used by persons with limited dexterity, such as those with arthritic hands.
Windows That Increase Privacy
While privacy can be controlled with various types of window treatments, you probably won’t want to be replacing and washing curtains in your later years. Obscured or textured glass balance privacy with natural lighting and, on operable window styles, ventilation. We at Renewal by Andersen® offer energy-efficient windows with optional obscured glass options.
Low-Maintenance Windows
Another thing you probably won’t want to do in your later years is scraping and repainting your windows, which can become more difficult to do as you age. The solution is to choose low-maintenance windows. While many people see vinyl as the go-to solution, it’s not as durable, and the color selection is often limited.
This is why Renewal by Andersen replacement window frames and sashes are made with our exclusive Fibrex® material. Made of wood fibers and polymer, Fibrex provides the strength and natural insulation of wood with the low-maintenance benefits of vinyl. Additionally, our High Performance™ Low-E4® glass packages feature exterior coatings that remove up to 99% of water spots when activated by sunlight.
Renewal by Andersen of Southwest Missouri is your leading provider of ENERGY STAR® windows and patio doors. Give us a call at (417) 268-9301, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
