One of the most important parts of your home is its windows. In a way, windows act like the “eyes” of your home primarily because they help you get a glimpse of the environment around you. Apart from offering you a picturesque view of the surroundings, your windows also help improve the look, value, and overall comfort of your home.
The condition of your windows, though, can turn questionable over time. As major exterior components, they constantly exposed to the elements, leaving them vulnerable to damage if not maintained properly. When this happens, it may be time to consider investing in window replacement. In this post, we answer some common questions to help point you in the right direction.
Question #1: What’s the Best Kind of Window Frame to Buy?
As you learn more about the window replacement industry, you’ll see that there are a variety of features available for your home. One of the most essential features to consider is the framing material. The frame plays a big role in improving the entire look and performance of your new units. They give them shape, boost their appearance, and help in minimizing energy loss in the home. Today, there are many materials available so the selection process can get overwhelming. To simplify it, look for a material that perfectly combines durability, insulating properties, ease of maintenance, and attractiveness.
Wood, aluminum, and vinyl are all good choices—in fact, they are some of the most popular choices among American homeowners. However, they come with specific disadvantages. For example, wood is attractive, but it can be difficult to maintain, while aluminum is durable, but it offers poor insulation. Lastly, vinyl is the easiest to maintain among the three, but it may sag or warp under extreme temperature conditions. Fortunately, there’s another option available to you: composite, like Fibrex®. Containing reclaimed wood fiber and PVC polymer, it combines the qualities of wood and vinyl, without their respective drawbacks, resulting in window frames that are strong, easy to maintain, insulate well, and extremely beautiful.
Question #2: Does Window Replacement Really Help Save on Heating and Cooling Costs?
Did you know that old, inefficient windows account for as much as 30% of your annual energy costs? Excessive window damage means that your home is more susceptible to the elements. It also causes drafts and uneven interior temperature, prompting you to rely more on your HVAC system for comfort.
When you replace faulty units with energy-efficient replacement windows, you’ll see a significant increase in your energy savings over time. This is because most windows available today come with insulated frames and low-emissivity glass packages that create thermal barriers between your home and the outdoor environment. Simply put, they help minimize the chances of air leaks, keeping indoor heat in and outdoor heat out to stabilize indoor temperature and keep unnecessary energy consumption to a minimum.
Question #3: Do I Need to Replace All of My Windows at the Same Time?
The answer is no. Without a doubt, replacing all your windows will be highly beneficial but you do not have to do it all at once. By working with a trusted contractor, you can schedule your replacement in phases, following a time frame that best suits your budget and other considerations. To start, you may follow this order of priority: safety, energy efficiency, and cost and design. This means first replacing windows with defective frames, broken glass, and other damaged components that can put your safety at risk before moving on to areas where needs are more cosmetic in nature.
Question #4: Can I Save Money by Installing the Windows Myself?
Depending on the extent of the job, window replacement can be quite expensive. That’s the reason some homeowners choose to take the DIY route. However, there are possible risks associated with DIY window replacement, including improper seals and faulty installation. Fixing issues can be pricey so it’s better to invest in hiring professionals that can guarantee installations done right the first time.
Question #5: The Local Hardware Store Sells Replacement Windows. Aren’t They All the Same?
Not all windows are created equal. Those you can purchase at local hardware stores are standard windows that aren’t customized to fit your home. Furthermore, they are only available in a few colors and styles, limiting your design capabilities. When you work with a reputable window contractor, you can be confident that not only will your windows be custom-fitted to your home but you’ll also have access to a wider range of trims and color options, ensuring you get the replacements you want exactly.
Got more questions? Don’t hesitate to give your trusted local window contractor a call today! They’ll be more than willing to provide you with the assistance you need to make the most of getting window replacements.
Author Bio:
Ryan Copple is the general manager for Renewal by Andersen® of Oklahoma City. With a solid industry experience of over 20 years, he understands your unique home improvement needs and goes the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction. He’s a business builder with an appetite for process improvement and believes that the opportunity to serve our customers on a daily basis is an honor and privilege. For updates from Ryan, check out the company blog!
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