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When it's Time for Window Replacement

If your windows are old and no longer improve the appearance of your home, protect it from the elements, or reduce noise It's time to replace them. Where do you begin?

There are many factors to take into consideration. Let's break it down to help you make your choice: style, energy use and labeling, installation and price.

Energy Efficiency

Energy savings is one of the main reasons that homeowners choose to replace their windows. Actually replacing old, drafty windows can reduce cooling and heating costs by as much as 20 percent. But, some homeowners are disappointed when they discover that the energy savings from the new windows will not cover the initial cost in a long time.

Window performance and operation are important aspects to be considered when replacing windows. A window that is not functioning properly could increase your home maintenance costs, utility bills, and increase the risk of air leaks. If your windows are not 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 the absence of sealing.

Another indication that windows are in need of replacement is the presence of mold or mildew inside and outside the frame. This is typically an indication of a failing seal or damaged weather stripping. If these issues aren't addressed promptly, the resulting mildew and mold can lead to health and safety problems for your family.

Replacement windows for new homes can improve home security, curb appeal and resale value. These advantages are enhanced if the windows used in a renovation project are energy efficient, as stated by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).

The efficiency of windows is measured by their U-factor. The lower the U factor, the higher the insulating power of the window. A U-factor that is less than 0.26 is a good rule of thumb. Other than the U-factor factors to consider for energy efficiency are frame material and design. Vinyl offers a durable, low-maintenance option, but can expand and contract with temperature changes, leading to leaks; wood provides a classic look and better insulation, but requires regular maintenance. Aluminum is light and easy to maintain, but it conducts heat quickly and is not a good insulator.

For the best results homeowners should seek out a professional window installer to ensure that their replacement windows are installed correctly. A professional can help you select the right windows to match the architectural style of your home and climate zone. They can also provide details about resale values and homeowner satisfaction.

Style

New windows always add value to a home. However, once you start looking at the styles, types and configurations that are available, it's overwhelming. It's not only about style or purpose. The wrong windows could actually reduce the value of your home.

Window companies have a number of ways they can replace old windows with more energy-efficient units, depending on the condition of 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 a different method that's often recommended for older homes or historic areas where grills are needed. These are standardized kits that come with aluminum jamb liners made of wood or clad and a replacement sash for the upper and lower half of the window.

The installation of a full-frame replacement requires the removal of the existing frame and sash. This is often recommended when the windows are damaged to the point that they're beyond repair. Full frame installations are also recommended for homeowners who want to change the type of window, for instance by replacing double-hungs by sliding or cases.

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

Before installing your new window, loosen and remove the stops that hold the window in place. Be careful when working around the sill of your existing frame to ensure that you don't damage the wood. If required, shim the window. Once the window has been installed then shim the top and bottom edge to ensure a tight fitting. Add caulk to the outside edge of the window replacements near me to make it waterproof.

If your new window isn't quite right for the opening, use foam-rubber backer rod to fill any gaps that are larger than 1/4 inch (0.64 centimeters). This is a much better option than caulk which can trap moisture, causing wood rot and mold. If you have any gaps wider than this, attach 1 in (2.5 cm) furring strips to the sides of the frame to increase the height.

Budget

The initial cost of replacing windows is costly however it's well worth it for the energy efficiency it brings and the improved quality of living you get from your home. It also increases the value of your home and may help reduce utility bills. Before you start your project, you need to create a budget to guide your spending decisions. To help you decide on the amount, think about your household's energy requirements and the style of windows you'd like to install. A reputable contractor can give you an insight into your costs beyond your personal goals, and offer solutions to reduce them.

Window frame materials are one of the most important factors that influence replacement windows cost. Aluminum and vinyl frames are the least costly options, while wood and composite frames are more. Take a look at the pros and cons of each frame type to help you determine which is best for your home. For example, wood windows are more durable and provide superior insulation, but they're susceptible to moisture damage and require regular maintenance. Vinyl and aluminum are both cheaper, however they are susceptible to rust and do not offer the same level insulation as wood.

The window replacement company you choose to work with may provide different methods of installation, which can affect the total cost. The most labor intensive is a complete replacement of the frame. This involves taking down the entire window and replacing it with a brand new model. This is usually advised when frames are damaged or have rotted. It's also recommended for renovation projects that have a historical background. An alternative that is less expensive is to replace the insert window. During the process, the current sash, operating hardware and exterior trim are removed. However the siding and exterior trim remain in place. The new window unit will be inserted in the opening, insulated and sealed.

If you're doing the work yourself, you should factor in the cost of the tools you require. A caulk gun, shims that are waterproof and a tape measure are essential. Make sure you buy shims with different thicknesses so that you can accommodate the various sizes of your window sills and head jambs. You'll need elastomeric sealant fill in any gaps between the frame and casing.

Installation

Windows are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate the unique style of each house. There are options for single-hung, double-hung, sliding bay bow, casement circle garden, awning jalousie and egress windows. These windows are available in a variety of different finishes and materials. Some are insulated for further energy efficiency.

Replace your old, inefficient windows with energy-efficient double-hung windows and save money. The process is easy however it's worth the effort. In addition to the savings in cost, you will enjoy the benefits of a new beautiful, elegant window.

Before you install your new window, take out the screen and sash of the previous frame. This will ease the manipulation of the frame and prevent any damage to the window's materials. You'll need caulk to seal the frame on both sides and any gaps if there are any. Use the recommended caulk.

Depending on your preferences and the condition of your current frame, you may choose to use cedar or plastic shims to make sure that the window sits properly in the opening. Don't over-shim your window as this could cause water condensation within the frame to accumulate and cause the frame to degrade.

After the window is set, your installer will make sure the frame is level and well caulked and plumb. Reinstall any interior trim removed to accommodate the window. Then, you can paint or stain the window to match your home's color scheme. Seal and insulate your sill jambs and flanges along the exterior of your house for better window performance.