Unless you’re a window expert, it’s not always easy to tell whether a window should be repaired or replaced. Before making any decisions, have a professional assess your windows for signs of irreparable damage. Here are some signs your windows may need replacing:
You’ve decided that it’s time for replacement windows—so where do you start your search? There is a wide variety of options so that you can get the right windows for your needs. Here are the most important considerations you’ll need to take into account when selecting replacement windows.
Today’s window technology has come a long way from how homes used to be built, and newer windows’ energy efficiency is better than ever. When done right, replacement windows can save you money on your energy bills.
The best way to compare window efficiency is to look at the whole-unit U-value and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC).
Why do these numbers matter? The less heat that you gain or lose through your windows, the less you will need to run your heating system or air conditioner. If you’re replacing outdated single pane windows with little to no energy efficiency, you’ll see a larger difference in your energy bill.
Budget is one of the biggest factors people consider when buying replacement windows. Depending on the brand, material, and style you choose, your costs could differ. For a standard-size, double-hung, double-pane (energy efficient), vinyl window, expect to pay between $450 and $600, including installation. Wood windows are more expensive. The cost of a wood replacement window can range between $800 and $1,000 per installation.
Setting a budget for window replacement is important but remember—you get what you pay for. This is a purchase you will most likely only need to make once or twice in your life, so be sure to choose windows that are high quality enough to be durable, high-performing, and long-lasting.
The drawbacks of cheap windows can add up fast. From more maintenance to less energy efficiency to being drafty or not opening properly, buying cheap window products just to save a bit of cash isn’t going to benefit you in the long run. Certain glass types and frame materials cost more than others, and for good reason—they’re better at their jobs. Work with a professional window company to understand what a realistic budget might be and ask them to recommend high quality products in your price range. Remember to find out the installation cost, too!
Windows are a prominent feature of any home, both inside and out. Select replacement windows that complement and enhance the look of your home. Choosing the wrong style can detract from the overall look of your home—and could even lower resale value.
The style of your home affects which windows will look great once installed. For instance, traditional or colonial-style homes look best with small double-hung windows with divided lights, while ranch-style houses often look best with swing-out casement windows.
Once your windows are installed, they’ll need to be able to withstand the elements as well as be easy to clean and maintain. Ask your window dealer about the different materials available and the level of maintenance required to keep them durable and maintain their appearance. Here are some of the maintenance tasks you may need to perform occasionally:
Sierra Pacific Windows simply builds better windows. All wooden parts are treated against pests, and deterioration, and are specially treated for durability against the harsh New England climate. Superior craftsmanship promises enduring energy efficiency and appearance to elevate the look and feel of your home.
Once you have an idea of the factors that matter most to you, it’s time to choose the type of replacement windows you’ll be installing in your home. We strongly recommend having a professional window installation company assess your home as part of your process. Some windows may be easier to install in your home than others, which could help cut down on installation costs and overall project time.
Uses only one pane of glass. Although it’s true that single pane windows are still available today, we would not recommend replacing windows in your home with single pane windows! If you currently have this type of window, that is probably one of the reasons you are seeking to replace them. With the advances in window technology, few homeowners continue to use single pane windows. Though inexpensive, these types of window panes are poor insulators and would be better used for outdoor sheds or garages that require little insulation.
Two panes of glass are separated by an insulating layer of air or clear, odorless gas. This is the most popular replacement choice for today’s homeowners. These durable windows protect your home from the cold during the winter, keep A/C inside during the summer, and provide an effective sound barrier. Additional Low-E coatings can block harmful UV rays.
Made up of three panes of insulated glass. The middle pane is surrounded by air on both sides. Triple pane windows are ideal for insulation homes that are exposed to extremely cold or hot temperatures, although they are a more expensive alternative to double pane windows. Additionally, the energy-saving factor between double and triple pane windows is quite small, so, if you choose triple pane windows, be careful that this upgrade doesn’t raise the price of your project beyond its value.
We would not recommend aluminum windows to many homeowners. While aluminum is extremely durable and can withstand demanding conditions, these types of windows not commonly used in residential construction.
This is one of the most popular window replacement materials available. Vinyl windows are made from PVC with hollow chambers inside to help them resist heat transfer and condensation. Vinyl windows don't require painting or finishing, and the material doesn't fade or rot.
With a classic style that is readily customizable, wood windows are particularly attractive, especially in interiors. Wood is durable, strong, and energy efficient. However, wood windows often require increased maintenance because of wear from the elements. Unless diligently maintained, wood windows are prone to rot and warping.
This material offers the benefits of wood on the inside, but are covered on the exterior with a tough, low-maintenance aluminum jacket, which helps prevent rot.
This newer window material is stronger than vinyl, however it does typically cost more and its color choices are limited. Fiberglass windows are extremely durable and won’t rot or decay. They’re ideal for larger windows because their superior strength allows them to support the weight of the glass panes.
Home improvement projects are a great way to increase your home’s market value, but very few improvements actually recoup 100 percent of their costs. Replacement windows, however, are a sound investment; you’ll recoup around 70 to 80 percent of your costs on your home’s real estate market value. To give some perspective, bathroom remodels all have cost-value ratios of only around 56 percent.
In addition to resale value, replacement windows also increase energy efficiency and improve the comfort of your home.
With the increased market value, energy efficiency and comfort that replacement windows can bring to a home, they are certainly a home improvement project that is worth your time and resources.
Low emissivity, or low-E coatings, minimize the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that can pass through glass without compromising the amount of visible light that gets through. When the sun shines through your window, low-E glass will reflect a lot of that unwanted energy back toward the outside instead of letting the heat in. That means it’s much easier to keep your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
This is one of the most loaded questions in the window industry. When homeowners ask this question, they could be looking for a few different answers:
Each of these answers depends on your home, the scope of your project, and the brand and type of windows you purchased. Be sure to talk to your window contractor about each of these “how long” questions to help set your expectations for the project.
Rot is a common problem found on window frames and sills. If window rot is found during your assessment, be sure your installation company is able to address it during the installation process. Not all window technicians will deal with rot, and many will call in other professionals to take care of it, which draws out the project timeline. Also, be sure to select low-maintenance, highly durable replacement windows in order to avoid dealing with this problem again.
Now that you are familiar your replacement window options, it’s time to buy your windows and get them installed. But should you work with glass specialists, or a general contractor?
Here are some tips for choosing the right replacement window installers:
Many of the renovation horror stories you hear have to do with “pickup truck contractors.” Homeowners hire a jack-of-all-trades to complete their projects, instead of a trusted company with a team of professionals, looking forward to a lower cost and simplified process. But in reality, these types of builders often don’t have the trade or time management skills to complete the job properly and under deadline.
When you sign a contract for the company that is to complete your installation, be sure the contract includes your window warranty and service contract information. Understand exactly what the warranty covers. Does it protect you if the installation was done incorrectly, or only if there is a defect with the product itself? Is the warranty just from the window manufacturer, or will the installation company warranty their services as well?
When it comes to replacing windows, experience matters. Window installation techniques are constantly being updated. An experienced company that has been in business for many years is sure to have a highly trained team and be up-to-date on the latest best practices and products.
Rot is a common problem found on window frames and sills. If window rot is found during your assessment, be sure your installation company is able to address it during the installation process. Not all window technicians will deal with rot, and many will call in other professionals to take care of it, which draws out the project timeline. Also, be sure to select low-maintenance, highly durable replacement windows in order to avoid dealing with this problem again.
We strongly recommend you work with a professional window company throughout this process—that is, a company that sells, installs, and services residential replacement windows. There are a few reasons why this is the best option. A window company has the knowledge and experience to help you choose the right products for your home based on an assessment. But they will also ensure a correct, professional installation that you can trust to be done right.
