When it's Time for Window Replacement

It's time to replace your old windows if they're no longer able to protect your home from the elements, filter noise or enhance its architecture. How do you start?

There are a lot of things to take into consideration. Let's break down the process to help you make your choice design, energy use and labeling, installation and price.

Energy Efficiency

Energy savings is one of the main reasons that homeowners choose to replace their windows. Replacing old drafty windows with new ones can cut down on heating and cooling expenses by up to 20 percent. Many people are dissatisfied when they find that their energy savings will not pay for the initial cost of their new windows for a long period of time.

Window performance and operation are vital aspects to be considered when replacing windows. A window that is not functioning properly can increase home maintenance, costs for utilities, and the possibility of air infiltration or leaks. For instance windows that do not move up and down or slide from side to side properly could need replacement because the frames have become warped or swollen because of excessive moisture from condensation or lack of sealing.

Mildew or mold that has developed on the inside and outside of the frame is a further sign that it's a good time to replace your windows. This is typically a sign of failed seals or damaged weather stripping. If the issues aren't taken care of promptly, the resulting mildew and mold can result in health and safety issues for your family.

Replacement windows can increase the security of your home as well as curb appeal and resale values. 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 energy efficiency of windows. The lower the U-factor, more insulating power the window is. A U-factor of less than 0.26 is a good guideline. Other than the U-factor factors to consider for energy efficiency are frame material and design. Vinyl is durable and low-maintenance, however, it is prone to contract and expand as temperatures change. This can cause leaks. Wood is classic and offers better insulation, but requires regular maintenance. Aluminum is light and easy to maintain and it conducts heat efficiently.

For the best results, homeowners should seek out a professional window installer to ensure that the new windows are installed correctly. A professional can also assist you in selecting the best windows for your home's style and climate zone, and provide information on resale value and homeowner satisfaction.

Style

New windows will always enhance the value of your home. However, once you start looking at the different styles, types and options available, it can get overwhelming. It's not just about fashion or function. The wrong windows can actually decrease the value of your home.

Window companies have a number of methods they use to replace old windows with more energy-efficient windows, based on the condition of the existing frames. A contractor can replace the exterior frame with pocket replacement. The interior trim and sashes remain intact. Sash pack replacement is another option that is often suggested for older homes or historic areas where grills are needed. These are standardized kits that include aluminum jamb liners made of wood or clad and replacement sashs for the lower and upper half of the window.

The installation of a full-frame replacement requires the removal of the frame and sash that are currently in place. This is recommended if existing windows are beyond repair. A full-frame installation is a good choice when the homeowner wants to change the window type like replacing double-hung windows with sliders or casements.

Find replacement windows that bear the NFRC label. This label shows 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 secure the window. Work carefully around the sill to avoid damaging the wood. If necessary then shim the frame. After the window has been put in, shim both the bottom and top edges to ensure a secure fit. Add caulk to the outside edge of the window 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 better option instead of caulk, which can trap moisture and cause mold and wood rot. If you have any gaps wider than this, you can screw 1 in (2.5 cm) furring strips to the sides of the frame to raise the height.

Budget

Window replacement is an expensive investment but the energy efficiency and enhanced home comfort it brings makes it worth the initial expense. It can also boost the value of your house and cut down on utility bills. Before you begin your project, it's essential to make a budget that will guide your spending choices. To help you decide on an amount, consider your household's energy consumption and the style of windows you'd like to install. A reputable contractor will provide you with an understanding of the cost of your windows over and above your personal budget and provide suggestions for reducing them.

Window frame materials are among the major factors that determine the cost of replacement windows. Aluminum and vinyl frames are the cheapest options, while wood and composite frames cost more. Take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of each frame type to help you decide which one is the best fit for your home. Wood windows, for instance, are more durable, offer better insulation, however they require regular maintenance and are prone to damage from moisture. Vinyl and aluminum windows are less expensive, however, they are susceptible to rust and don't offer the same level of insulation as wood.

The window replacement company might provide a variety of installation methods, which can affect the overall cost. The most labor-intensive option is a complete frame replacement. This involves taking down the entire window and replacing it with a brand new one. This approach is typically advised when frames are damaged or have rotted. It's also required in the case of historical renovation projects. Insert windows is a less expensive alternative. During this process, the existing window's sash and operating hardware are removed, however the exterior trim and siding are left intact. The new window will be placed in the opening, insulated and sealed.

If you're tackling the job yourself, Cheapest make sure you factor cheapest in the cost of the equipment you need. A caulk gun, shims that are waterproof and tape measure are necessary. Make sure you buy shims in different thicknesses so that you can accommodate the various sizes of your window sills as well as head jambs. You'll also need elastomeric caulk to cover any gaps between the frame and casing.

Installation

Windows are available in various shapes and sizes, to fit the architectural style of each home. Options include single-hung, double-hung, sliding bay bow, casement, circle garden, awning egress and jalousie windows. These windows are available in a variety of different finishes and materials. Some are insulated for further energy efficiency.

If your windows are rotting, damaged or inefficient, you can save money by replacing them with energy-efficient double-hung windows. The procedure is simple and it's well worth the effort. In addition to the savings in cost, you will enjoy the benefits of a new, beautiful window.

Remove the screen and sash window replacement before installing your new window. This will allow you to move the frame around and will protect the material. You'll need caulk to secure the frame on both sides and any gaps if there 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 ensure that the window sits properly in the opening. Be careful not to over-shim your window, however, as this can cause water and condensation to build up inside the frame, which can cause deterioration of the material.

Your installer will ensure that the frame is level, straight and fully caulked after the window is installed. You can then put back in any trim on the interior that was removed to make room for the new window. Then, you can paint or stain the window to be in keeping with the colors of your home. Make sure to seal and insulate the sill, jambs and flange on the outside of your house to further promote window performance.