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When it's Time for Window Replacement

When old windows no longer enhance the look of your home, protect it from the elements or block out noise, it's time to replace them. But where do you begin?

There are many things to take into consideration. Let's break it down to assist you in making your decision design, energy use and installation, labeling and price.

Energy Efficiency

Energy savings is among the main reasons why homeowners choose to replace their windows. Replacing old drafty windows with new ones can reduce the cost of cooling and heating by up to 20%. Many people are disappointed when they discover that their savings in energy do not make up the initial cost of their new replacement windows glass windows for a long period of time.

Window performance and operation are crucial factors to consider when replacing 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 are not moving up and down or sliding side-to-side like they should, you may need to replace them since the frames are warped or swollen due to excessive moisture or the lack of sealing.

Mildew or mold on both the outside and the inside of the frame is a further sign that it's a good time to replace your windows. This is typically a sign of failed weather stripping or seals that have been damaged. If the issues aren't addressed promptly, the resulting mildew and mold could lead to health and safety problems for your family.

New replacement windows will increase the security of your home, curb appeal, and resale values. These benefits are enhanced when the windows that are used in renovations are energy efficient, as specified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).

The efficiency of windows is measured by their U-factor. The lower the U factor, the greater the insulation power of the window. A good rule of thumb is to search for a U-factor lower than 0.26. Other than the U-factor considerations for energy efficiency include frame material and design. Vinyl is durable and low maintenance, but it can expand and contract when temperatures change. This can cause leaks. Wood is timeless and provides better insulation however, it requires regular maintenance. Aluminum is light, easy to maintain, and is able to conduct heat quickly.

To get the best performance from their replacement windows, homeowners must hire an experienced contractor to install them. A professional can assist you select the right windows that will fit your home's architectural style and climate zone. They can also provide information on the resale value and homeowner satisfaction.

Style

It's not a secret that windows with new designs add to the value of homes. But when you start considering the types, styles and options available, it can get overwhelming. The choice isn't only about function or style -- choosing the wrong windows can detract from a home's resale value.

Window contractors have a few ways they can replace old windows with more energy-efficient units, depending on the condition of existing frames. A contractor can replace the frame on the outside by a pocket replacement. The interior trim and sashes remain intact. Another method, often recommended for older homes or older areas with strict requirements for grilles or sash packs, is to use a sash pack replacement. These are standardized kits that include aluminum jamb liners made of wood or clad and replacement sash for the upper and lower half of the window.

The process of replacing the full frame requires removal of the frame and sash that are currently in place. This is typically recommended when the current windows are so worn that they're beyond repair. Full-frame installations 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. This label indicates the energy efficiency rating of the window. The higher the rating is, the more efficient the window.

Before installing your new window, unlatch and remove the stops that hold the window in place. Carefully work around the sill of the existing frame to make sure you don't damage the wood, and if required, shim the window. Once the new window is set you can shim the top as well as the bottom edges to ensure a secure fit and add caulk around the outside edge to seal it.

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

Budget

The initial cost of window replacement is high but it's worth it for the energy efficiency it offers and the increased comfort it brings to your home. It also improves the value of your home and could help reduce utility bills. Before you begin your project, you need to establish a budget to guide your spending choices. To determine an amount, consider your household's energy consumption and the type of windows you want to install. A reliable contractor can provide you with an understanding of your costs over and above your personal budget, and offer solutions to reduce them.

Window frame materials are one of the major factors that determine replacement windows cost. Aluminum and vinyl are the cheapest alternatives, whereas wood, fiberglass and composite frames are more costly. 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 superior insulation, however they're susceptible to moisture damage and require regular maintenance. Aluminum and vinyl are more affordable, however they are susceptible to rust and don't provide the same level insulation as wood.

The window replacement company you choose to work with will provide a variety of installation methods that impact your overall cost. The most labor-intensive is a complete replacement of the frame. This involves taking down the entire window and replacing it with a new one. This is usually recommended when the frames are damaged or have rotted. It's also required for historical renovation projects. Insert window replacement is a cheaper option. In this process the operating hardware and sash are removed, but the exterior trim and siding remain intact. The new window replacement near me will be placed in the opening, insulated and sealed.

When you do the work yourself, it is important to factor in the cost for the tools. A tape measure, a shim made of waterproof material and a caulk gun are essential. Buy shims of various thicknesses for window sills, head jambs, and other sizes. You'll need elastomeric sealant to fill in any gaps around the casing and frame.

Installation

Windows come in various sizes and shapes, to fit the architectural style of every home. There are a variety of choices, including single-hung and double-hung windows sliding windows, bays bows, casement, circles, awnings, jalousie, egress, and circle windows. They are also available in a variety of materials and finishes. Some are also insulated to increase energy efficiency.

Replace your old windows that are inefficient with energy-efficient double-hung window to save money. The process is relatively easy, but the results are well worth it. In addition to the cost savings you will also enjoy the benefits of a new beautiful, stunning window.

Take off the screen and sash prior to installing your new window. This will make it easier to move the window 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 they are any. Use the caulk recommended by the manufacturer.

Depending on your preferences and the condition of your existing frame, you could opt to use either cedar or plastic shims to make sure that the window is properly positioned in the opening. Be careful not to over-shim your window since this could cause water condensation inside the frame to build up and cause the frame to deteriorate.

The installer will make sure that the frame is level, plumb and completely caulked after the window is installed. You can then put back in any trim inside that was removed to accommodate the new window. Then, paint or stain the window to the color scheme of your home. Be sure to seal and insulate the sill, jambs and flange on the exterior of your home to further improve the performance of your window.