Homeowners rarely replace their windows with replicas of the old ones. Unless the home is a historic one you will want to upgrade on virtually everything: style and design as well as the more practical features and you will want to do all of this while still observing necessary budgetary restrictions.

Because well chosen replacement windows are considered one of the most significant investments you can make in your home you will need to make wise choices that take full advantage of the opportunity.

A good place to start is with an investigation into the style, design and materials of the old windows. By starting with what you HAVE you will be able to decide on what you need and want. Style and design should be your first consideration. Are the style, shape and design of your old windows something you would like to match or will you want to be more adventurous. Do you have designs on larger more contemporary style windows than the present ones? Is there a regular window that needs replacing by something quite different, like a bay or bow window?

At this initial stage you may find it helpful to consult with a professional. Well-chosen window designs can add dramatic architectural detail and improve the curb appeal of your home by up to 100%. Wise window placement, shape and design allow more interplay between the interior and exterior as well as adding light and atmosphere.

Once you have decided on the design and style of your replacement windows you will need to make a decision about the material you choose for the framing. There are five basic options and each one has plusses and minuses.

Vinyl is currently the most popular choice among homeowners some of the main reasons being its reputation for easy, low maintenance. This is often the choice for people in recovery from old wood windows that have a way of punishing you with the thankless task of endless, unsuccessful attempts at maintenance. Vinyl windows come in a broad range of shapes and designs from the cost effective off the shelf kind to expensive top end customized designs.

Vinyl replacement windows are also good choices for homes that need good insulation from extreme weather. Good vinyl windows have a high level of energy efficiency as well as superior sealing capacities. Not only are they energy efficient and low maintenance but they open and shut with ease so it's obvious why they are the 'easy' choice in replacement windows.

Wood windows will never go out of fashion. They are still the most popular replacement windows among architects and designers. It is hard to beat their aesthetic appeal as well as their strength, versatility and energy efficiency. If you are choosing wood be prepared for prices that reflect this. There are few cost effective wood windows on the market and it would not be wise to install cheap, badly made versions. They will make you pay in other ways.

Aluminum windows are strong, light and cost effective but they are poor insulators. These replacement windows should only be chosen for homes where extreme temperatures are not an issue. They are also a sensible option for large view windows where their slim, light frames are advantageous.

Wood clad in aluminum or vinyl is a popular choice because it offers homeowners the best of both worlds: warm wood inside and weather proof, easy maintenance on the outside. These windows are not the most cost effective option but the range of choice is broad and the quality good, strong and practical.

Fiberglass windows are growing in popularity in the replacement window market but they are still not as readily available as other materials. They are upmarket and expensive but the material is light, strong and as weatherproof as the many boat hulls that are constructed out of it.

It is now possible to purchase super energy efficient windows when you install replacements so look out for those bearing the Energy Star label signifying that they have passed the formal, objective requirements for superior insulation and low air leakage.

Choosing the right replacement windows for your home is a step by step process but if you steadily cover all the bases they will repay you by changing the look and feel of the home for many years to come.