Choosing Windows for New Construction
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Planning a new home build brings a lot of exciting choices and one of the most important decisions early on is your windows. Windows aren’t just about letting in light; they play a key role in your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and overall style. For builders and homeowners alike, selecting the right windows during the design phase is critical to achieving the right look and long-term performance.
At Woodland Windows and Doors, we work closely with both custom homebuyers and builders across the Chicagoland area to provide premium window solutions backed by expert support and installation. Here’s what you need to know when choosing windows for new construction.
Understanding the Role of Windows in New Construction
In a new construction project, windows are an essential design element that impacts both form and function.
For homeowners, this is your opportunity to tailor views, natural light, and the home’s aesthetic to match your vision. For builders, the window package directly affects code compliance,
energy ratings, and timeline efficiency. Window placement also influences heating and cooling loads, indoor comfort, and even furniture layout.
Choosing windows early allows for better coordination with architectural plans and can help avoid costly changes or delays down the road. That’s why involving a window expert during the design stage can streamline the process and improve the finished result.
Window Styles That Work for Modern Builds
From clean-lined modern homes to updated farmhouses and transitional designs, today’s new construction trends call for thoughtfully chosen window styles. Some of the most popular choices include:
Casement Windows
Hinged on the side and swinging outward, these windows offer excellent ventilation and a modern, unobstructed look.
Double-Hung Windows
Classic and versatile, these windows open from both the top and bottom, making them easy to clean and operate.
Picture Windows
Fixed, non-operable windows that bring in lots of light and showcase views—great for living rooms and stairwells.
Awning Windows
Hinged at the top and opening outward, they’re ideal for bathrooms or above kitchen sinks.
Sliding Windows
Space-saving and easy to operate, these work well in tight spots or along patios and walkways.
Specialty Shapes
Arched, angled, or custom shapes add architectural interest and are often used to complement standard windows.
Our showroom features a wide variety of styles from top brands like Marvin, Pella, and Andersen which gives both homeowners and builders plenty of options to work with.
Frame Materials: Pros and Cons for New Homes
Your choice of frame material impacts both performance and aesthetics. Here's a breakdown to help guide the decision:
Wood
Offers natural beauty and warmth. It’s a great choice for custom homes aiming for a high-end, classic look. Wood windows typically need more maintenance but offer unmatched charm.
Clad Wood
Combines the beauty of wood interiors with weather-resistant exterior cladding (aluminum or fiberglass), reducing maintenance while preserving style.
Vinyl
Budget-friendly and low maintenance. Vinyl is energy efficient and available in a variety of colors and configurations, making it a go-to for builders focused on value.
Fiberglass
Known for strength, durability, and energy performance. It resists warping and expanding, making it a solid choice for Chicagoland’s climate.
Aluminum
Sleek and modern, often used in contemporary builds with large glass panels. While not as insulating, newer aluminum frames can be thermally broken for better performance.
Choosing the right frame material depends on your budget, desired look, and how much maintenance you’re willing to take on. Our team can help weigh the pros and cons for your project.
Energy Efficiency and Performance Features
Windows are a big part of your home's thermal envelope, so energy efficiency is a must, especially in Illinois' four-season climate. When selecting windows for new construction, look for these performance features:
- Low-E Glass – Reflects heat in summer and keeps warmth in during winter, while still allowing natural light.
- Argon or Krypton Gas Fills – These inert gases between panes improve insulation and reduce heat transfer.
- Double or Triple Pane Glass – More panes mean better thermal performance and reduced outside noise.
- Weatherstripping & Quality Seals – Keep drafts out and energy bills low.
- ENERGY STAR® Certification – Indicates the product meets or exceeds government standards for energy efficiency.
Builders aiming to meet or exceed energy codes will benefit from working with Woodland, we stay on top of evolving standards and help specify window packages that meet the requirements.
Customization and Aesthetic Considerations
New construction is the perfect time to get exactly what you want from a style standpoint. Today’s windows come in a variety of colors, grille patterns, finishes, and hardware selections, so you can create a truly custom look.
- Color & Finish – Choose from bold black, clean white, or earthy tones to coordinate with your siding and trim.
- Grilles Between Glass (GBG) or Simulated Divided Lites (SDL) – Customize the architectural detailing of each window to match your home’s character.
- Trim & Casing Options – Coordinate interior trim with flooring and cabinetry for a seamless design.
- Hardware Finishes – Bronze, nickel, matte black, or polished chrome—these small touches make a big difference in the finished look.
Our showroom in Roselle gives you the chance to see and compare real samples, which helps you make confident design decisions with support from our experienced team.
Partner with the Right Window Dealer & Installer
Choosing the right windows is only half the equation—partnering with a knowledgeable dealer and experienced installer makes all the difference.
At Woodland Windows and Doors, we don’t just sell windows, we offer expert design consultations, handle measurements, and provide
professional installation with every purchase. For custom homebuyers, we help bring your vision to life. For builders, we streamline procurement, offer trade-exclusive options, and ensure every product meets your project specs and schedule.
Our partnerships with top brands, deep product knowledge, and commitment to customer service make us the go-to source for new construction window solutions in Chicagoland.
Send or bring us your blueprints, schedule a free design consultation, or stop by our state-of-the-art showroom in Roselle to explore your options. Whether you're building your dream home or managing a new development, Woodland is here to help you find the perfect windows for the job.
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