When it's Time for Window Replacement

If old windows don't enhance the look of your home, protect it from the elements or block out noise It's time to replace them. What should you do?

There are many things to consider. We'll break them down to help you decide the best 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. Replacing old windows that are drafty with new ones can reduce the cost of cooling and heating by up to 20 percent. However, some people are disappointed to discover that the energy savings from the new windows will not fully offset the initial investment in a long period of.

Window performance and operation should be the primary aspect for any homeowner thinking about replacing their windows. If a window isn't functioning properly could 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-toside as they should be they should, you may have to replace them because the frames are warped or swollen due to excessive moisture or lack of sealing.

Another indicator that windows are in need of replacement is the presence of mold or Window replacement mildew inside and outside of the frame. This is typically an indication of a failing seal or damaged weather stripping. Mold and mildew that results from these issues can cause health and safety concerns for your family members if they are not addressed immediately.

Replacement windows for new homes can enhance security for your home as well as curb appeal and value. These advantages are enhanced when windows that are used in renovations are energy efficient, as defined by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).

The U-factor is a measure of the efficiency of windows in terms of energy consumption. The lower the U factor, the higher the insulating power of the window. A good rule of thumb is to search for a U-factor that is less than 0.26. The frame material and design are also important aspects to consider when it comes to energy efficiency. Vinyl offers a durable, low-maintenance option, but can contract and expand with temperature fluctuations, leading to leaks. Wood provides an elegant look and better insulation but requires regular maintenance; aluminum is lightweight and easy to maintain, but it conducts heat quickly and is not a good insulation.

For the best results homeowners should consult a professional window installation contractor to ensure that replacement windows are properly installed. A professional can assist you choose the best windows to match your home's architectural design and climate zone. They can also provide details about the resale value of windows and homeowner satisfaction.

Style

It's not a secret that windows with new designs add to the value of a home. However, once you start looking at the types, styles and options available, it can become overwhelming. The choice isn't only about function or style -- choosing the wrong windows can actually hinder a home's resale value.

Window contractors use various ways to replace old frames with energy-efficient ones, depending on their state of repair. A contractor can replace the frame on the outside with pockets. The interior trim and sashes are left intact. Another method, often suggested for older homes or in older areas with strict requirements for grills and sash packs, is a sash replacement. These are kits that come with aluminum jamb or wood liners and replacement sashs for the upper and lower half of the window.

A third method is to install full-frame replacement windows. These will require the removal of the entire frame and sash. This is usually recommended when the current windows are damaged to the point that they're beyond repair. Full-frame windows are also recommended when homeowners want to change the type of window, for instance by replacing double-hungs by sliding or cases.

When buying replacement windows, look for windows with the NFRC label, which shows the window's energy-efficiency rating. The higher the rating the more efficient the window.

Take off the stops that keep your window replacement cost in place before installing the new one. Work carefully around the sill to avoid damaging the wood. If necessary then make sure the frame is shimmed. After the window has been put in, shim both the top and bottom edge to ensure a secure fit. Apply caulk to the outside edge of the window to ensure it is sealed.

Fill any gaps greater than 0.64 cm (0.24 in) by using a foam-rubber backing rod. This is a better solution than using caulk, which can trap moisture and lead to mold and wood rot. If you have any gaps that are larger than this, screw 1 inch (2.5 cm) furring strips to the sides of the frame to increase the height.

Budget

Window replacement is an expensive investment, but the energy efficiency and increased comfort for your home make it worth the initial investment. It also increases the value of your house and reduce utility bills. Before you start your project, Window replacement you need to create a budget to guide your spending decisions. Consider your household's needs for energy and the type of windows you would like to install. A reputable contractor can give you an insight into the costs that go over and above your personal budget, and offer solutions to reduce them.

Window frame materials are among the major factors that determine the cost of replacement windows. Vinyl and aluminum frames are the most affordable options, while wood and composite frames cost more. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of each frame material to help you choose the best one for your home. For instance, windows made of wood are more durable and offer better insulation, however they are susceptible to moisture damage and require regular maintenance. Vinyl and aluminum are both less expensive but they are prone to rusting, and don't provide the same level of insulation as wood.

Your window replacement company can provide a variety installation techniques that impact the overall costs. The most labor-intensive is complete frame replacement, in which the entire existing window is removed and replaced with a new unit. This is usually recommended when your existing frames have begun to rot or are damaged, and it's often required for historic renovation projects. An alternative that is less expensive is called insert window replacement. In this procedure the existing window's sash and operating hardware are removed, however the exterior trim and siding are left intact. A new window unit is then put into the opening and secured, insulated and sealed.

If you're doing the work yourself, you should take into account the cost of the tools you require. A tape measure, a shim made of waterproof material and a caulk gun are essential. Be sure to purchase shims of different thicknesses to fit the various sizes of your window seal replacement sills as well as head jambs. You'll need elastomeric sealant fill in any gaps around the casing and frame.

Installation

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

Replace your old windows that are inefficient with energy-efficient double-hung window to save money. The process is simple however it's worth the effort. You will also enjoy the advantages of having a gorgeous new window.

Before installing your new window, remove the screen and sash from the existing frame. This will ease the manipulation of the frame and prevent any damage to the window's materials. You'll need caulk to secure the frame on both sides, and any gaps, if they are any. Use the recommended caulk.

Based on your personal preferences and the condition of your current frame, you could opt to use cedar or plastic shims to ensure the window is properly positioned in the opening. Don't over-shim the window as this could cause water condensation inside the frame to accumulate and cause the frame to degrade.

After the window is set the installer will make sure the frame is level, properly caulked and plumb. Reinstall any interior trim removed to accommodate 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 home to ensure better performance of your windows.