When it's Time for Window Replacement

When old windows no longer improve the appearance of your home or shield it from the elements, or reduce noise, it's time to replace windows. How do you start?

There are a myriad of factors to take into consideration. We'll break them down to help you choose the right style, energy consumption and cost, labeling installation, and price.

Energy Efficiency

Energy savings is one of the main reasons that homeowners choose to replace their windows. In fact, replacing old drafty windows can cut heating and cooling costs by up to 20%. Some people are dissatisfied when they find that their energy savings do not pay for the initial cost of their new windows for a prolonged time.

Window performance and operation are crucial aspects to be considered when replacing windows. If a window isn't operating properly could result in higher home maintenance expenses, utility bills and increase the risk of air leaks. For instance windows that aren't able to move up and down or slide from side to side properly could need to be replaced because the frames have swollen or warped because of excessive moisture from condensation and/or inadequate sealing.

Mildew or mold on both the outside and the inside of the frame is another sign that it's a good time to replace your windows. This usually indicates failed weather stripping or seals that have been damaged. If these issues are not treated promptly, the resultant mildew and mold can lead to health and safety issues for your family.

New replacement windows can also enhance security for your home, curb appeal and resale value. These benefits are enhanced if the windows used for a renovation are energy efficient, as specified by National Fenestration Rating Council.

The efficiency of windows is measured by their U-factor. The lower the U-factor, more insulating power the window offers. A U-factor that is less than 0.26 is a good guideline. The frame material and design are also important factors to consider for energy efficiency. Vinyl is durable and low-maintenance, but it may contract and expand when temperatures change. This could lead to leaks. Wood is classic and offers better insulation, but requires regular maintenance. Aluminum is lightweight and easy to maintain and it conducts heat efficiently.

For the best results homeowners should seek out a professional window installation contractor to ensure that replacement windows are properly installed. A professional can help you choose the best windows to fit 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 a fact that new windows add to the value of a house. However, once you start looking at the styles, types and configurations that are available, it can become overwhelming. The choice isn't only about style or function -picking the wrong windows could detract from a home's resale value.

Window contractors have a variety of ways to replace old windows with more energy-efficient windows, based on the condition of existing frames. One of them is a pocket replacement window glass, in which a contractor removes the frame's exterior but leaves the interior trim and sashes. Sash pack replacement is another method that's often recommended for older houses or historical areas where grills are needed. These are standardized kits that include aluminum clad or wood jamb liners and replacement sash for the lower and upper half of the window.

A third method is to put in windows with a full frame, which require removing the entire existing frame and sash. This is recommended when the windows that are in use are damaged beyond repair. Full-frame installations are an ideal option if homeowners want to change the type of window, such as replacing double-hung windows with sliders or casements.

When purchasing replacement windows, make sure you choose windows that have the NFRC label, which indicates the window's energy efficiency rating. The higher the rating the more energy efficient the window.

Before installing your new window, loosen and remove the stops that keep the window in place. Be careful when working around the sill of the existing frame to ensure that you don't scratch the wood. If needed, shim it. Once the window has been installed and shimmed, you can shim both the top and bottom edge to ensure a secure fit. Apply caulk to the outside edge of the window to make it waterproof.

If your window does not fit perfectly in the opening, use a foam-rubber backer rod to fill in any gaps larger than 1/4 in (0.64 cm). This is a better solution than using caulk, which can trap moisture and cause mold and wood rot. If your gaps are wider then you can add furring strips that measure 1 inch (2.5cm) to the frame. This will increase the height.

Budget

The initial cost of replacing windows is expensive however it's well worth it for the energy savings it provides and the improved comfort it provides to your home. It also enhances the value of your home and may help reduce utility bills. Before you start your project, you need to make a budget that will guide your spending decisions. Think about your family's needs for energy and the type of windows you would like to install. A reputable contractor will give you an insight into your costs over and above your personal budget and provide 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 alternatives, whereas wood and composite frames will cost more. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of each frame material to help you choose the best one for your home. Wood windows, for example are more durable and offer superior insulation but require regular maintenance and are vulnerable to damage from moisture. Vinyl and aluminum windows are less expensive, however, they are susceptible to rust and don't provide the same level of insulation as wood windows.

The window replacement company you choose to work with may provide different methods of installation which could impact the total cost. The most labor-intensive method is a complete frame replacement, in which the entire window is removed and replaced with a brand new unit. This is usually recommended when your existing frames have begun to rot or are damaged and is usually required for historic renovation projects. A less costly alternative is to replace the insert window. During the process, the existing sash, operating hardware, and exterior trim are removed. However the siding and exterior trim remain in place. The new window is then inserted into the opening, insulated, and sealed.

If you're doing the work yourself, be sure to include the cost of the tools you'll need. A tape measure, a shim made of waterproof material and caulk guns are crucial. Make sure you buy shims in different thicknesses to accommodate the different heights of your window sills as well as head jambs. Also, you'll need elastomeric caulk to fill any gaps around the frame and casing.

Installation

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

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

Remove the screen and sash before installing your new window handles replacement. This will allow you to move the frame around and protect the materials. You'll require caulk to seal the frame on both sides, and any gaps, if they are any. Use the caulk that is recommended.

Depending on your preferences and the condition of your current frame, you can choose to use cedar or plastic shims to make sure that the window sits properly in the opening. Do not over-shim the window as this can cause water and condensation within the frame to accumulate and cause the frame to deteriorate.

Your installer will ensure that the frame is level, straight and fully caulked after the window has been installed. You can then put back in any interior trim that was removed to make room for casement the new window. Paint or stain the new window to match the color scheme of your home. Seal and insulate your sill jambs and flanges on the exterior of your house for improved window performance.