Installing new windows can refresh your home’s curb appeal and brighten its interior. You have numerous factors to consider when choosing replacement windows. Thoughtful choices can improve your home aesthetically, enhance its comfort, and reduce your energy costs.
Signs You Need To Replace Your Windows
If you haven’t decided to replace your windows, keep an eye out for some unmistakable signs that they are approaching the end of their life. Drafts are among the first indicators of outdated windows. A sudden chill near the window suggests poor-quality sealing, allowing outside air to infiltrate your home.
If your windows are getting stuck when you try to open and close them or refuse to stay open, their mechanical parts may be wearing out. Other probable causes include warping in the sash or the frame is causing operational issues.
Don’t overlook evidence of rotten frames and sills! Rot compromises the structural integrity of the window and takes a toll on its aesthetic appeal. These signs point to a clear need for replacement windows that will restore your home‘s comfort and appearance.
Window Materials
The frames are among the most important choices homeowners must make when replacing windows. These materials have their own benefits and drawbacks:
Wood Windows
Wooden frames are classic and naturally beautiful. They add an architectural warmth to your home that’s hard to beat. They also offer excellent insulation, contributing to energy efficiency. However, wood windows require regular maintenance, such as painting or staining, to prevent them from warping or rotting. They tend to be more expensive than most other materials and may not be the best choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Composite Windows
Composite windows blend wood and plastic, and they offer the aesthetic appeal of wood with the low-maintenance benefits of vinyl. These windows resist warping and rotting and typically have a longer lifespan than wood. However, composite windows can be pricier than vinyl or aluminum, so keep that in mind when deciding.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows are popular because of their strength, durability, and low maintenance requirements. They are also resistant to rust and corrosion, making them excellent for homes in areas with harsh weather conditions. On the downside, aluminum is less energy efficient than other materials and might not provide the best insulation in cold climates.
Vinyl Windows
Vinyl frames are popular due to their affordability and low-maintenance nature. They don’t require painting or staining, and they resist scratching, warping, and corrosion. However, vinyl windows have a somewhat plastic appearance that you might not appreciate. They are available in a variety of colors to match your home’s exterior, but you cannot paint or stain vinyl window frames.
Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass windows are known for their durability and resistance to weather conditions. They are energy-efficient and require little maintenance, similar to vinyl windows. They can be painted to match your home’s color scheme, unlike vinyl. However, fiberglass windows are typically the most expensive option, which may limit their appeal for budget-conscious homeowners.
Read the Stickers
The stickers on new windows are akin to a nutrition label on food packaging, providing essential information for buyers. Two terms you’ll see on these stickers are “U-Factor” and “Solar Heat Gain Coefficient“ (SHGC).
The U-Factor measures how well the window insulates. A low U-Factor indicates better insulation and more energy efficiency. SHGC, on the other hand, measures how much solar radiation (and heat) the window allows into your home. Lower SHGC values mean less solar heat gain, which can be beneficial for homes in hot climates. An Energy Star rating is another important element to look out for. Energy Star-certified windows are energy-efficient and high quality!
Check the Warranty
When purchasing replacement windows, you should understand the warranty that accompanies your investment. Typical window warranties cover defects in the material and quality of the product for a set period, around 10–20 years. Some manufacturers offer a “limited lifetime warranty,” which can extend for as long as you own your home.
Warranties may also cover the glass, the frame, and the hardware for varying durations. Look for the specifics about what circumstances can void your warranty; these often include improper installation or maintenance.
Note that some high-quality windows have a transferable warranty, which is a great perk if you plan to sell your home in the future. Take the time to read the warranty terms to understand your coverage.
Architectural Style and Function
Consider your home’s architectural style and the functionality of the windows when choosing replacement windows. Many homeowners utilize several window styles for different purposes, including the following:
Double-hung windows with grids mimic divided lights for a traditional look. These look terrific on classic colonial, Cape Cod, or Georgian-style homes.
Casement windows, with their hinged design and outward opening, offer excellent ventilation and a contemporary aesthetic, complementing modern and European-style homes.
Picture windows are large and stationary. While they do not open, they do provide expansive views and let in abundant natural light. They are perfect for homes with a stunning outer landscape.
Garden windows protrude from the house and have glass on all sides, creating a mini-greenhouse for your pleasure.
Sliding windows move horizontally along a track and are easy to operate, making them suitable for contemporary homes and small spaces due to their space-saving design.
Custom windows offer a myriad of possibilities to suit your tastes. Bespoke solutions allow you to select every detail, from the frame material, size, and shape to the glass type, color, and finish. Reece Builders provides custom windows in Winston-Salem, NC, so contact us or visit our website to check out our project gallery!
Choose an Experienced Installer
Selecting the right installer is as crucial as choosing the windows themselves. An experienced, licensed, and insured contractor will do a well-executed installation with high-performance windows. Verify the contractor’s credentials, ask for proof of insurance, and check their record with professional and regulatory bodies.
Also, evaluate the prospective contractor’s responsiveness and customer service to get an idea of their commitment to customer satisfaction. Don’t forget to ask for references from previous clients! Confirming the quality of a contractor’s work with other homeowners who have experienced their service firsthand will reassure you that your home is in capable and reliable hands.
Selecting replacement windows for your home is a fantastic way to refresh its appearance, add natural light, and improve sightlines to your landscape. Remember to find great windows and a reputable contractor to install them. Your choice will have a lasting impact on the value of your home and the quality of your living space.
Subscribe to Reece Builders's Blog
Comments