When it's Time for Window Replacement

If your windows are old and no longer enhance your home's architecture or shield it from the elements or filter noise, it's time to replace them. Where do you begin?

There are many factors to consider. We'll break them down to help you select the right style, energy consumption and cost, labeling installation, and cost.

Energy Efficiency

One of the most common reasons homeowners decide to invest in new windows is to save energy. In reality replacing old windows that are drafty can cut cooling and heating costs by as much as 20%. Many people are dissatisfied when they find that their savings in energy do not make up the initial cost of new windows for a long period of time.

Window performance and operation should be the primary factor for any homeowner who is considering window replacement. A poorly functioning window can make it more difficult to maintain your home, increase utility bills, and the chance of air infiltration or 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 since the frames are swollen or warped due to excessive moisture or a the lack of sealing.

Another sign that it's time to replace windows is the presence of mold or mildew inside and outside of the frame. This is typically a sign of failed seals or damaged weather stripping. If these issues aren't treated promptly, the resultant mildew and mold can result in health and safety issues for your family.

New windows can enhance security for your home as well as curb appeal and value. These benefits are enhanced if windows used in a renovation are energy-efficient as recommended by the National Fenestration Rating Council.

The energy efficiency of windows is measured by their U-factor. The lower the U factor, the better the insulation power of the window. A good rule of thumb is to look for a U-factor that is less than 0.26. The frame's material and design are also important factors to consider for energy efficiency. Vinyl is durable and low maintenance, however, it is prone to expand and contract as temperatures change. This can cause leaks. Wood is classic and provides better insulation but requires regular maintenance. Aluminum is lightweight, easy to maintain, and is able to conduct heat quickly.

To get the best results, homeowners should work with an experienced window installation professional to ensure that their replacement windows are installed correctly. A professional can assist you choose the best windows that will fit your home's architectural design and climate zone. They can also provide details about the resale value and homeowner satisfaction.

Style

It's a fact that new windows add to the value of a house. It can be a bit overwhelming to think about all the various types of styles, designs and configurations available. It's not just about design or functionselecting the wrong windows can actually hinder a home's resale value.

Window contractors use a variety of ways to replace frames with more energy-efficient ones dependent on their condition. One is a pocket replacement, where contractors remove the frame's exterior but leaves the interior trim and sashes. Sash pack replacement is a different option that is often recommended for older houses or historical areas where grilles are required. These are kits that come with aluminum clad or wood jamb liners and a replacement sash for the upper and lower half of the window.

Another option is to put in windows with a full frame, which will require the removal of the entire frame and the sash. This is often recommended when the windows are so damaged that they're beyond repair. Full frame installations are also recommended when homeowners want to change the type of window, such as by replacing double-hungs by sliding or cases.

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

Before installing your new window, loosen and take off the stops that hold the window in place. Work with care around the sill to avoid damaging the wood. If needed, put the frame in a shim. Once the new window replacement panes is set you can shim the top as well as the bottom edges to ensure a secure fit. Then, apply caulk around the outside edge to seal it.

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

Budget

Window replacement is a major investment, but the energy efficiency and improved home comfort it brings makes it worth the initial expense. It also increases the value of your home and replacing could aid in reducing utility costs. It is essential to establish a budget before you begin your project to guide your choices. To help you determine the amount, think about your household's energy consumption and the style of windows you'd like to install. A reputable contractor for windows can give you an insight into the costs outside your personal budget and offer suggestions to minimize them.

Window frame materials are one of the most important factors that influence the cost of replacement windows. Aluminum and vinyl frames are the most affordable options, while wood and composite frames are more. Take into consideration the advantages and disadvantages of each frame material to help you decide the best one for your home. Wood windows, for instance are more durable, offer superior insulation but require regular maintenance and are vulnerable to water damage. Vinyl and aluminum are both more affordable, but they are more susceptible to rust and do not provide the same level insulation as wood.

Your window replacement service can provide a variety installation methods that impact cost overall. The most labor-intensive is complete frame replacement. This is where the entire existing window is removed and replaced with a brand new unit. This approach is generally recommended when your existing frames have begun to rot or are damaged and is often necessary for historic renovation projects. A cheaper alternative is to use insert window replacement. During the process, the current sash, operating hardware, and exterior trim are removed. However the exterior trim and siding remain in place. A new window is then inserted into the opening and secured to the wall, then insulated and sealed.

When you do the work yourself, make sure you consider the cost of the equipment. A caulk gun, waterproof shims and a tape measure are essential. Buy shims of various thicknesses for window sills, head jambs and other sizes. Also, you'll need elastomeric caulk to cover any gaps between the frame and casing.

Installation

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

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

Before you install your new window, take out the screen and sash from the current frame. This will make it easier to move the window of the frame, and also prevent damage to the materials. Once the window has been slid into place it is necessary to apply caulk along the frame's edges 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, according to your preference and the condition of the frame. This will ensure that the window is placed properly in the opening. Don't over-shim the window as this can cause water and condensation within the frame to accumulate and cause the frame to degrade.

The installer will make sure that the frame is level, straight and completely caulked after the window is installed. Reinstall any interior replacing trim removed to allow for the window. Paint or stain the new window to match the colour scheme of your home. Make sure to seal and insulate the sill, jambs and flange on the exterior of your house to further improve the performance of your window.