How do you know that the time to replace your old windows has come? Do replacement windows have any real benefit? This post is meant to help you purchase the right replacement windows for your house.
An informed buyer will always get value for money. You need to have a good understanding of replacement windows before making the right purchase decision. You will be faced with many options when it comes to selecting the style and material of the windows. There are also many other factors you will have to consider.
Renovation projects are aimed at improving the energy efficiency and value of your home. The best way to reach this goal is through replacement windows. Replacement windows will also give the exterior of your house that much needed face lift.
Installing news isn’t all that super easy as you may have been made to believe. Unless you do thorough research, you will run into all kinds of troubles when putting in new windows.
You can successfully tackle your own window replacement project. Just dedicate a sufficient amount of time toward learning this great art.
Benefits of Replacement Windows
If your windows have passed their prime it is time to replace them. This could yield one of the highest returns on your real estate investment. Undertaking this renovation project will also give you great comfort and enjoyment.
If you are still undecided about whether to replace your windows or not, you should check out the following benefits of window replacement:
Increased Energy Savings
Replacement windows have the benefit of making your house energy efficient. This is only environmentally friendly but also wallet-friendly. Modern windows insulate and regulate your house temperature, straining your HVAC system less. Vinyl windows offer the best insulation compared to Aluminum and Wooden windows. With the right modern window, you can save up to 30% of the amount of money spent on power bills.
Increase in Home Value
You can quickly up the value of your house by replacing old windows. In terms of curb value, replacement windows have been found to offer a 90% return on investment. To get value for money on your investment, look out for reputable and trustworthy manufacturers who offer the best warranty terms.
Reduction in Noise Transference from the Outside in
Outside noise, especially for those who live in cities, can be a real distraction both at home and in the office. Modern high-quality windows such as the Pella’s Triple Pane Sound Control Glass are made of noise-reducing glass. They reduce sound transmission from the exterior to the interior and vice versa, giving you much-needed peace and privacy.
Added Security
Traditional windows offer little home security. Modern windows are made of quality hardware that is almost hard to break in. If you want a truly secure house, go for a laminated glass window. Multi-point locks also offer added strength and protection.
Protects Your Furniture
Windows with low emissivity glass coating protect your furniture from the fading of color. Direct sunlight can greatly damage your furniture, carpets, and curtain colors.
How to Know it is Time to Replace Windows
Home improvement projects are costly and cause a lot of inconveniences. This is why most people put them off until it becomes completely necessary to undertake them. But how do you know that the time to replace your old windows has come? The following signs will tell you that it is time to replace your old windows:
When it Becomes Difficult to Open, Close or Lock the Windows
Windows in good condition should open and close with ease. A window should also have a properly functioning lock. Anything less than that means it is time for the window to be replaced.
When Condensation Starts to Build up Between Glass Layers or Cracked Window Glass
Condensation occurs when warm and moist air from inside your house meets with the cold surface of window glass. It can happen for a number of reasons but if it becomes persistent then it is a sign of a faulty window.
When You Start to Hear a Lot of Outside Noise
When you start to hear every single thing happening in the neighborhood you should hurry and replace your windows. It means that your windows are not providing insulation against outside noise. Outside noise can be a big distraction both at home and in the office where it lowers employee productivity.
When You Notice an Increase in Your Energy Costs.
This simply means that your furnace is working overtime to compensate for your old and faulty windows. In summer, you will spend more on energy bills as your air conditioner works to cool your house down.
Decayed Window Frames
When the window frames become soft, chipped, and visibly damaged, it is time to replace the windows. Soft window frames are a sign of rot and water infiltration and are beyond repair. They can only be replaced.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Replacement Windows
New windows can mean a lot to your home. New windows can increase the comfort and ventilation of your home. They also make it more secure and aesthetically appealing.
Here are some of the factors you need to consider before buying a replacement window:
Required Maintenance
The performance of windows is highly dependent upon how they are maintained. A poorly maintained window suffers from water infiltration and leaks due to the presence of drafts. Good replacement windows require little to no maintenance. They should also be easy to clean and operate. Such replacements also have a longer service life as they are moisture and insect-proof.
Energy Efficiency
There are no two ways about this: a replacement window should be energy efficient. Choose replacement with energy-efficient materials that reduce energy consumption. An energy-efficient window will facilitate brighter yet comfortable interiors. Go for replacement windows that let in natural light while protecting against harmful UV rays and solar glare.
Performance Ratings
The National Fenestration Rating Council is responsible for testing and approving windows based on their performance ratings. NFRC and ENERGY STAR seals have the following details: U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient, air leakage rate, and visible light transfer. Choose a replacement window with these seals.
Right Framing Materials
For a replacement window to perform optimally it needs the right framing material. The right frame material is easy to maintain, provides structural stability, and is termite-resistant. The frame should also have thermal insulation properties.
A 5 Step Guide to Window Replacement
This guide is meant to help you purchase the right replacement windows for your house:
Evaluate If it is the Right Time for Replacement Windows
Determining the right time for window replacement has been exhaustively discussed above. If your window shows any of the above signs then it is time to undertake a window replacement project.
Select the Best Type of Windows for Your Home
A replacement window should complement the exterior architecture of your home as well as the interior décor. The most common types are sliding, casement, and double-hung windows.
Find out Wow Energy-Efficient Your Windows Should be
A replacement window should be energy efficient. There are no two ways about it. To lower your energy bills, choose a window with a low u-value.
Determine Which Material is Best for Your House
The most preferred window frame materials are Aluminum, wood, and Vinyl. Each material has its unique strengths and its price varies. Even though Aluminum does not rot, it can oxidize. Wood is all moisture resistant and can therefore rot. Vinyl windows are fade-resistant and therefore require little to no maintenance.
Look for Qualified Contractors to Replace Your Windows
Ask around for a trustworthy and reputable contractor to install your replacement windows. Take a look at the company’s website, online customer reviews, registration, and other relevant accreditations.
