HouseWindows

Replacing House Windows

Replacing house windows is one of the most important considerations for a home owner who wants to enhance the appearance and increase the resale value and energy efficiency of their home. The first step is to assess your needs. Do you need to replace one or more faulty windows? Or is it time to consider replacement widows for your whole house? We can help you get your project started with information and quotes today.

Window Components and Styles

What is a window anyway? A window is much more than just the glass. The header, side jambs, and sill make up a frame that holds the window unit and connects it to the wall. What we commonly refer to as the window, the assembly that holds the panes of glass is known as the sash. The reason you may want to know these terms is that replacing the whole window unit is a much different project than replacing the sash or glass components. Keep in mind, when replacing house windows, the purpose of a window is to let light into your home, not hot or cold air when they are closed.

What is the style of your current windows? There are several common window types. Single or double hung windows open by sliding the sash up or down. Casement windows open from the sides. Awning windows open outward. Casement and awning styles are easy to keep clean and are slightly more energy efficient because they close by pressing against the frame. Bay windows that project outward from the exterior wall are a great way to enhance the appearance and add value to any house.

Window Material Energy Ratings

More so than the style, construction material and glass type determine the energy efficiency and overall return on your investment by replacing house windows. There are two energy ratings. Higher R-values indicate windows that are more resistant to heat flow. Lower U-values mean the material looses less heat over time. There are recommended ranges for these ratings that depend on the climate in your area.

Because of ongoing advancements, most professionals agree that replacing windows more than ten years old can increase the energy efficiency of your house and significantly reduce your power bill. In many cases, the energy savings can pay for replacing house windows in just a few years. By performing house window installation, you and your family immediately enjoy a more comfortable house while saving energy for years to come.

Wood, aluminum, and vinyl are popular frame materials for house window construction. Each has advantages when considering energy efficiency vs. cost and maintenance requirements. Aluminum has lower R-values, but is easier to customize. Wood frames have higher R-ratings, but do need more care to make them last. Vinyl offers mid range R-values and comes in many styles, colors, and price ranges.

Double pane insulated glass has superior resistance to heat loss over a single pane window. Glass can also be made with various coatings that reflect heat. These are referred to as low-e glass. Special tints are used in heat absorbing glass.

These are some of the things to consider when replacing house windows. Consulting service professionals in your area can help you determine the best material combinations to fit your budget that add beauty, value, and comfort to your home when replacing. Informed choices in replacing house windows can help insure that you get the highest return on your investment.

When to Consider Replacing

Common problems with a house window are easy to identify and difficult to ignore, especially when the power bill arrives each month. Is there broken glass? Looking from the outside, is there decayed or missing trim? Do they open and stay closed properly? Is there frost or moisture on or around the glass? Is the glass cold to the touch from the inside in winter or hot in the summer? Do you feel cold drafts near a window? If you are concerned about the presence of any of these issues, then it is time to consider replacing house windows.

By far, the best course of action is to inform your self. Contractors are constantly striving to offer cost conscious consumers better products at the best prices. While it can be done, replacing house windows is not generally thought of as a do it your self project.

Local qualified contractors that specialize in window replacement are the best resource to help you determine the best solutions for your needs. They offer current, up to date information on replacing with the most cost effective materials. They provide professional worry free installation. When you let it be known that you are an informed consumer by getting estimates for replacing house windows from several qualified sources, you gain the respect of those offering the quotes. They want your business and work harder to find solutions that perfectly match your needs.