When it’s Time for Window Replacement

It’s time to replace your windows if they no longer protect your home from the elements, reduce noise or enhance the architecture. But where do you start?

There are many factors to take into consideration. Let’s break down the process to aid you in making your choice the best one for you: style, energy usage and labeling, installation and price.

Energy Efficiency

One of the main reasons homeowners decide to invest in new windows is to conserve energy. In fact replacing old, drafty windows can reduce cooling and heating costs by as much as 20%. However, some are disappointed when they discover that the energy savings from the new windows will not fully offset the initial investment over a long period of time.

Window performance and operation should be a major aspect for any homeowner thinking about replacing their windows. A window handle replacement that isn’t working properly can increase your home maintenance costs, utility bills and increase the risk of air leaks. If your windows aren’t moving up and down, or sliding side-to-side as they should be they should, you may have to replace them as the frames are swollen or warped from excessive moisture or the lack of sealing.

Mold or mildew on the inside and outside of the frame is a further sign that it’s a good time to replace your windows. This is typically an indication of a failing seal or damaged weather stripping. The resultant mildew and mold from these issues could cause health and safety risks for your family if they are not addressed immediately.

New replacement windows will also improve your home’s security, curb appeal, and resale values. These benefits are enhanced if windows used in a renovation are energy-efficient as recommended by the National Fenestration Rating Council.

The U-factor is a measure of the efficiency of windows in terms of energy consumption. The lower the U factor, the better the insulation power of the window. A U-factor less than 0.26 is a good guideline. Other than the U-factor factors to consider for energy efficiency are frame material and design. Vinyl is durable and low-maintenance, but it can contract and expand when temperatures change. This could lead to leaks. Wood is a classic choice and offers better insulation, but requires regular maintenance. Aluminum is light and easy to maintain and is able to conduct heat quickly.

To get the best performance from their new windows, homeowners should employ an expert contractor to install the windows. A professional can assist you select the right windows to match your home’s architectural design and climate zone. They can also provide information on the resale value of windows and homeowner satisfaction.

Style

New windows will always enhance the value of your home. It isn’t easy to look through all the different kinds of styles, designs, and configurations available. It’s not only about style or function. The wrong windows could actually decrease the value of your home.

Window contractors have a few methods they use to replace old windows with more energy-efficient windows, based on the condition of the current frames. A contractor can replace the frame on the outside with pockets. The interior trim and sashes are left intact. Sash pack replacement is another method that is usually recommended for older houses or historical areas where grills are required. These are kits that come with jamb liners made of aluminum or wood, and replacement sash on both lower and upper halves.

A third method is to put in full-frame replacement windows, which will require the removal of the entire frame and sash. This is recommended if windows that are in use are damaged beyond repair. Full-frame windows are also recommended when homeowners want to change the type of window, for instance by replacing double-hungs with sliders or cases.

Find replacement windows with the NFRC label. The label identifies the energy efficiency rating of the window. The higher the rating is, the more efficient the window.

Take out the stops that keep your window in place prior to installing the new window. Be careful around the sill to avoid damaging the wood. If needed then put the frame in a shim. After the window has been put in then shim the top and bottom edge to ensure a snug fitting. Apply caulk to the outside edge of the window to make it waterproof.

Fill any gaps larger than 0.64 centimeters (0.24 in) with a backing rod made of foam-rubber. This is a superior option to caulk that can trap moisture and cause wood rot and mold. If the gaps are bigger, you can add furring strips of 1 in (2.5cm) to the frame. This will increase the height.

Budget

The initial cost of window replacement is expensive, but it’s worth it for the energy efficiency it brings and the improved quality of living you get from your home. It also improves the value of your home and can help lower your utility bills. Before you start your project, it’s essential to make a budget that will guide your spending choices. Consider your household’s needs for windowreplacement energy as well as the type of windows you would like to install. A reputable windows contractor can provide insight into your expenses outside of your personal budget and offer suggestions to reduce them.

Window frame materials are one of the most important factors that influence the cost of replacement windows. Aluminum and vinyl are the cheapest alternatives, whereas wood, fiberglass and composite frames are more expensive. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of each frame material to help you decide the best one for your home. For example, wood windows are more durable and offer superior insulation, however they’re susceptible to moisture damage and require regular maintenance. Aluminum and vinyl windows are less expensive however, they are susceptible to rust and don’t provide the same level of insulation as wood windows.

The window replacement sash windows company you choose to work with will provide a variety of ways to install windows that affect your overall cost. The most labor-intensive is a complete frame replacement. This involves taking down the entire window and replacing it with a brand new one. This approach is generally recommended when your frames are rotted or damaged and is usually required for old-fashioned renovation projects. Insert windows is a less expensive alternative. In this procedure, the existing window’s sash and operating hardware are removed, but the exterior trim and siding are left intact. The new window unit is then inserted into the opening, then insulated and sealed.

When you do the work yourself, make sure you factor in the cost for the tools. A tape measure, a shim that is waterproof and a caulk gun are essential. Make sure you buy shims of different thicknesses to accommodate the various sizes of your window sills as well as head jambs. You’ll also need elastomeric caulk to fill any gaps in the frame and casing.

Installation

Windows are available in different shapes and sizes to fit the architectural style of each home. There are many choices, such as double-hung and single-hung windows, sliding windows, bay bows, casement, circles, awnings, jalousie, egress, and circle windows. They are also available in a variety of materials and finishes. Some are insulated to further promote energy efficiency.

If your windows are damaged, rotting or inefficient, you can save money by replacing them with new energy-efficient double-hung windows. The process is relatively easy however the results are worth it. You’ll also get the advantages of having a gorgeous, new window.

Remove the screen and sash before installing the new window. This will make it easier to manipulate the frame and protect the materials. Once the window has been slid into place it’s time to apply caulk along the frame’s edges and in the gap in the event that there is one, use the caulk recommended for windows and doors.

You can choose to use shims made from plastic or cedar depending on your preference and the condition of the frame. This will ensure that the window is placed properly in the opening. Don’t over-shim your window as this could cause water and condensation within the frame to accumulate and cause the frame to deteriorate.

Once the window is installed, your installer will ensure that the frame is level, plumb and caulked thoroughly. Reinstall any interior trim removed to accommodate the window. Paint or stain the new window to be in keeping with the color scheme of your home. Seal and insulate the sill, jambs, and flanges on the exterior of your home for better window performance.