Window replacement is an investment in your home. It can be expensive and complicated, but it also improves the look of your home and increases its functionality.
Consider your options carefully. There are several styles and materials to choose from, including vinyl, wood, or fiberglass frames. Choose tempered glass to increase durability. To learn more, visit https://yourhomeexteriors.com/.
Window replacement is an opportunity to upgrade your home with high-performing, energy-efficient windows. You can choose from new construction types that install into the wall frame and studs or retrofit windows that replace only the window sash and fit into the existing frames. Both options are great for increasing the natural light in your home and adding curb appeal, but the decision on which type to choose depends on your budget and the condition of the current window frames and studs.
When you’re choosing new windows, look for ENERGY STAR® certification to get the best return on your investment. Energy Star certified windows create a tight seal to reduce drafts and cold spots in your home. They also provide soundproofing and help to block out outside noise.
You can also choose windows with a insulating frame to further increase energy efficiency. These windows have two separate insulated glass panes with a small gap between them to keep air from escaping your home. The gap is typically filled with a gas, such as argon or krypton, which further reduces heat flow. Other available energy-saving features include reflective films, tints, and low-emittance coatings to further reduce heat transfer.
It’s important to make sure that your home is well-insulated and sealed before you invest in a window replacement project. Moisture problems around the window frame, siding, trim, and insulation can cause expansions and contractions of the window seal. Over time, this can lead to fogging between the window panes and condensation on the inside of the glass. If left untreated, these moisture issues can eventually lead to rot and mildew in the wood, siding, or insulation around your window.
When you’re replacing windows, it’s also a good idea to add exterior shading to your home, such as awnings or exterior blinds. These will further reduce the amount of solar energy absorbed by your windows, lowering your utility bills even more.
Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is something that a lot of homeowners think about when they’re planning on selling their home. It’s important because it tells buyers what to expect from the inside of the house, but it also makes the property look welcoming and well-maintained. A house with great curb appeal is sure to attract a lot of attention and increase its value.
Window replacement is a project that can have a big impact on your home’s exterior curb appeal. New windows can add a modern look to the structure and make it stand out from other homes in the neighborhood. They can also reduce energy costs, which is always a good thing for any homeowner.
There are several other projects you can do to improve your curb appeal, such as adding plant beds or replacing the driveway or sidewalks. You can even add lighting to make the exterior of your home attractive at night. These are all easy ways to give your home some extra appeal that will make it more attractive to potential buyers.
The front door is another part of the house that can have a huge impact on curb appeal. If the doors are old and worn, they can give off a bad impression about the rest of the house. Replacing the doors can be an affordable way to improve your curb appeal.
Another way to boost your curb appeal is to paint your house. Nothing screams unkempt like chipped or peeling paint, and it’s a relatively cheap project that can have a big impact on the overall look of your house.
Window trim and shutters are other things that can help improve your curb appeal. They can be made of a variety of materials, such as aluminum or vinyl. They can be painted in a variety of colors and finishes to match the style of your home. The key is to choose accents that will complement the rest of your house’s exterior.
You can also improve your curb appeal by replacing the old weather stripping around your windows. This will prevent drafts and keep moisture from damaging the frame. It’s important to replace the weather stripping around your windows as soon as you notice it getting worn down.
Easy Maintenance
With a busy lifestyle, many homeowners overlook window maintenance. But neglecting windows can cause serious problems in the long run.
Keeping your windows clean and conditioned will help prolong their lifespan. Regularly wipe down all surfaces of the frame and sash with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust build-up, which can prevent the wood from breathing properly. Also, wipe down the sills and frames to remove any grit or grime that can damage the finish or cause rusting of hardware. Using a mild cleaner and a soft cloth will help keep your windows looking new.
Check your windows for any cracks, crevices, or loose caulking. These gaps are big energy-wasters and can lead to moisture, mold, and mildew in your home. Sealing these gaps with appropriate caulk will greatly improve the energy efficiency of your windows.
It is also a good idea to inspect the screens on your windows for any holes or tears that need to be repaired. Most hardware stores offer re-screening services for your convenience.
If you notice signs of water damage, it is best to contact one of our specialists right away. Moisture can lead to rot, which not only ruins the appearance of your window but also reduces its ability to function properly.
While some water damage can be repaired with our repair services, other damage may require a replacement. Our expert team will determine the best course of action for your particular situation, including a full replacement or retrofit.
For example, if your frame is rotting due to moisture or a lack of ventilation, you will likely need a full-frame replacement. Retrofits, on the other hand, are made to fit into existing window openings and can be a more cost-effective option for most homeowners.
Another scenario that may call for a replacement is when the window no longer opens or closes correctly. This can be caused by broken or damaged parts within the operation mechanism, a buildup of condensation, or weather stripping that has lost its effectiveness. Depending on the extent of the damage, it might be less expensive to replace the entire window rather than trying to repair it.
Installation
Choosing the right windows for your home is only one part of the replacement process. The way in which your new windows are installed also plays a significant role in their energy efficiency, durability, and appearance.
When choosing a contractor for window installation, look for one who prioritizes high-quality construction and follows best practices throughout the entire process. This includes laying tarps in and around the area of each window, removing all old windows, and cleaning up the work areas afterward. Additionally, a high-quality contractor will have the appropriate safety equipment and training to properly install your new windows.
Before starting a window replacement, the contractors will carefully measure each window opening to ensure that the new window fits correctly. This ensures that the frame is sized properly and does not leave gaps where water could seep in. Additionally, the contractor will place a pan at the top and bottom of the frame to direct water down and out instead of against the wall system where it can cause rot and mold.
Once the studs and trim are removed, the installer will use a brush or scraper to remove any loose or peeled paint from the wall and trim board. This will help to minimize the amount of time needed to paint the trim afterward. Additionally, the installer will use a drywall saw to cut the studs to length as needed for the new window.
Finally, a bead of caulk will be applied to the inside face of the trim as well as any window sills where it may be exposed to moisture. This helps to prevent moisture from damaging the wood and allowing it to expand and contract. A high-quality contractor will also apply caulk to the sash weight pockets in order to create a waterproof seal.
After the final caulking, shims will be used to ensure that the frame is level and a good fit for the window. A drainage membrane will also be installed so that any water that gets behind the exterior cladding can be drained down and out over the window.
