When it's Time for Window Replacement

It's time to replace your windows if they no longer protect your home from the elements, block noise or enhance its architecture. Where do you begin?

There are a myriad of factors to consider. Let's break down the process to help you make your choice the best one for you: style, energy usage and the labeling, installation and cost.

Energy Efficiency

One of the most common reasons homeowners invest in new windows is to save energy. Replacing old drafty windows with new ones can reduce heating and cooling costs up to 20%. Some people are dissatisfied when they find that their savings in energy do not make up the initial cost of their new windows for a prolonged period of time.

Window performance and operation are crucial aspects to be considered when replacing windows. If a window isn't working properly can increase your home maintenance costs, utility bills, and increase the chance of air leaks. If your windows aren't moving up and down, or sliding side-to-side as they should they should, you may have to replace them since the frames are swollen or warped due to excessive moisture or lack of sealing.

Another sign that it's time to replace windows is the presence of mildew or mold inside and outside of the frame. This is typically a sign of failed weather stripping or seals that have been damaged. If the issues aren't taken care of promptly, the resulting mildew and mold can lead to health and safety issues for your family.

The new windows will also enhance your home's security, curb appeal, and the value of resales. These benefits are enhanced if the windows used for a renovation are energy-efficient as recommended by the National Fenestration Rating Council.

The U-factor is a measure of the efficiency of windows glasses replacement in terms of energy consumption. The lower the U-factor, the more insulating power the window offers. A good rule of thumb is to look for a U-factor that is less than 0.26. The frame material and design are important factors to consider for energy efficiency. Vinyl offers a durable low-maintenance alternative, but can contract and expand with temperature changes, leading to leaks. Wood provides an elegant look and better insulation, but requires regular maintenance. Aluminum is a lightweight material that is easy to maintain, but it is extremely heat-conductive and is not a good insulator.

To get the most benefit from their new windows, homeowners must hire an experienced contractor to install windows. A professional can help you choose the right windows for your home's style and climate zone, and also provide details on the resale value of windows and homeowner satisfaction.

Style

It's not a secret that windows are a significant part of the value of a house. However, once you start looking at the different styles, types and configurations available, it's overwhelming. It's not just about style or function. The wrong windows can actually decrease the value of your home.

Window contractors have a few ways they can replace windows that are old with more efficient units, based on the condition of the existing frames. One is a pocket replacement, in which contractors take off the frame's exterior, but leaves the interior trim and sashes. Sash pack replacement is another method that is usually recommended for older homes or historical areas where grills are needed. These are kits that include aluminum clad or wood jamb liners and a replacement sash for the lower and upper parts of the window.

Installing full-frame replacements requires removing the frame and sash that are currently in place. This is often advised when the windows are so damaged that they're beyond repair. Full-frame windows are also recommended for homeowners who are looking to change the style of window, for example by replacing double-hungs with sliders or cases.

Find replacement windows that bear the NFRC label. The label identifies the energy efficiency rating of the window. The higher the rating the more efficient the window.

Before installing your new window, loosen and take off the stops that secure the window. Be careful when working around the sill of the existing frame to make sure you don't harm the wood. If required, shim the window. Once the window has been installed, shim both the bottom and top edges to ensure a snug fitting. Apply caulk to outside edge of the window to seal it.

If the window you've chosen doesn't quite fit the opening, use a foam-rubber backer rod to fill in any gaps larger than 1/4 inches (0.64 centimeters). This is a far better choice than caulk, which can trap moisture, leading to wood rot and mold. If you have any gaps larger than this, screw 1 in (2.5 cm) furring strips to the sides of the frame to increase the height.

Budget

Window replacement is a major investment but the energy efficiency and increased home comfort it provides makes it worth the initial investment. It can also increase the value of your home and reduce utility bills. It's important to set a budget before you begin your project to guide your choices. To help you decide on the appropriate amount, take into consideration your household's energy requirements and the style of windows you'd like to install. A reputable window contractor will give you an insight into the costs outside your personal goals and make suggestions to minimize them.

The material used to construct the window replacement panes frame is an important element in determining the cost of replacement windows. Aluminum and vinyl frames are the cheapest alternatives, while wood and composite frames are more. Take a look at the pros and cons of each type of frame to help you decide which one is the best fit for your home. For instance, windows made of wood are more durable and offer superior insulation, however they're susceptible to moisture damage and require regular maintenance. Aluminum and vinyl are more affordable, but they are more susceptible to rust and don't provide the same level of insulation as wood.

Your window replacement company may offer different installation methods that can impact the overall cost. The most labor-intensive is complete frame replacement. This is where the entire window is removed and replaced with a new unit. This approach is typically recommended if the frames are damaged or rotted. It's also recommended in the case of historical renovation projects. A less costly alternative is called insert window replacement. In this process the existing window's sash and operating hardware are removed, however the exterior trim and siding remain intact. A new window unit is then put into the opening, anchored and sealed. It is then insulated and anchored.

If you are doing the work yourself, make sure you take into account the cost of the tools. A caulk gun, shims that are waterproof and a tape measure are essential. Be sure to purchase shims with different thicknesses so that you can accommodate the different sizes of your window sills as well as head jambs. You'll need elastomeric sealant fill in any gaps that may exist between the frame and casing.

Installation

Windows are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit the architectural style of each home. There are options for single-hung, double glazing replacement windows-hung sliding, bay bow, casement circle, garden, awning, egress and jalousie windows. They are also available in a variety of materials and finishes. Some are insulated to increase energy efficiency.

If your windows are getting damaged, rotten, or inefficient, you can save money by replacing them with energy-efficient double-hung replacement windows. The process is easy however it's worth the effort. In addition to the cost savings, you will enjoy the benefits of a brand new, beautiful window.

Before installing your new window, remove the screen and sash of the previous frame. This will ease the manipulation of the frame and prevent damage to the materials. Once the Glass window Replacements has been slid into place it's time to apply caulk along both sides of the frame and in the gap, where there is any, using the recommended caulk for windows and doors.

You can choose to use cedar or plastic shims, depending on your preference and the condition of the frame. This will ensure that the window is set properly in the opening. Be cautious not to over-shim your window, however, as this may cause water and condensation to build up inside the frame and cause damage to the frame.

After the window cost replacement is set, your installer will make sure the frame is level and plumb and caulked thoroughly. Reinstall any interior trim removed to allow for the window. Then, you can paint or stain the window to be in keeping with the colors of your home. Seal and insulate your sill, jambs and flanges along the exterior of your house for better window performance.