Estella Haugen спросил 6 месяцев назад
When it’s Time for Window Replacement
It’s time to replace your windows if they no longer protect your home from the elements, reduce noise, or improve its design. How do you start?
There are a lot of things to consider. Let’s break down the process to aid you in making your choice the best one for you: style, energy usage and installation, labeling and cost.
Energy Efficiency
One of the most common reasons homeowners decide to invest in new windows is to conserve energy. In fact, replacing old drafty windows can reduce cooling and heating costs by up to 20 percent. But, some homeowners are disappointed to discover that the energy savings of the windows they have replaced do not fully offset the initial investment in a long time.
Window performance and operation are vital aspects to be considered when replacing windows. A window that isn’t functioning properly could increase your home maintenance expenses, utility bills and increase the chance of air leaks. For example, windows that don’t move up and down or slide from side to side properly may need to be replaced because the frames have swollen or warped due to excessive moisture caused by condensation and/or lack of proper sealing.
Mildew or mold that has developed on the outside and inside of the frame is another sign that it’s a good time to replace your windows. This usually indicates failed weather stripping or seals that have been damaged. The resultant mildew and mold from these issues could create health and safety issues for your family if they aren’t addressed immediately.
New replacement windows will also improve your home’s security as well as curb appeal and resale values. These benefits are enhanced if the windows used for a renovation are energy efficient according to the National Fenestration Rating Council.
The energy efficiency of windows is measured by their U-factor. The lower the U factor, the higher the insulating power of the window. A U-factor less than 0.26 is an ideal rule of thumb. Frame design and material are important aspects to consider when it comes to energy efficiency. Vinyl is durable and low-maintenance however, it is prone to contract and expand when temperatures change. This can cause leaks. Wood is a classic choice and provides superior insulation but requires regular maintenance. Aluminum is light and easy to maintain and conducts heat quickly.
For the best results homeowners should seek out an experienced window installation professional to ensure that their replacement windows are installed correctly. A professional can also help you choose the right windows for your home’s architectural style and climate zone, and can provide you with information on resale value and homeowner satisfaction.
Style
It’s not a secret that windows are a significant part of the value of a home. It isn’t easy to look through all the different types styles, styles and configurations that are available. It’s not just about style or functionality. The wrong windows can actually decrease the value of a home.
Window contractors employ different ways to replace window pane frames with more energy-efficient ones depending on their state of repair. One of them is a pocket glass Replacement windows, in which contractors take off the exterior frame but leaves the interior trim and sashes. Another method, often suggested for older homes or in historic areas with strict requirements for grills and sash packs, is a sash replacement. These are kits that include aluminum jamb or wood liners and replacement sashs for the lower and upper half of the window.
A third method is to install full-frame replacement windows. These requires the removal of the entire frame and the sash. This is typically advised when the windows are damaged to the point that they’re beyond repair. Full frame installations are also recommended for glass replacement windows homeowners who wish to change the type of window, such as by replacing double-hungs with sliders or cases.
When purchasing replacement windows, search for windows with the NFRC label, which shows the window’s energy-efficiency rating. The higher the rating, the more efficient the window.
Before installing your new window, loosen and take off the stops that hold the window in place. Work with care around the sill to avoid damaging the wood. If needed you need to put the frame in a shim. When the new window is in place you can shim the top as well as the bottom edges to ensure a tight fit and add caulk around the outside edge to seal it.
Fill any gaps that are greater than 0.64 cm (0.24 in) with a backing rod made of foam-rubber. This is a better option instead of caulk, which can trap moisture and cause mold and wood rot. If your gaps are larger then you can add furring strips that measure 1 inch (2.5cm) to the existing frame. This will increase the height.
Budget
Window replacement is a significant investment, but the energy efficiency and improved home comfort it provides makes it well worth the initial cost. It can also increase the value of your home and cut down on utility bills. Before you start your project, it’s important to establish a budget to guide your spending choices. To help you decide on the appropriate amount, take into consideration your household’s energy needs and the type of windows you want to install. A reputable contractor for windows can provide insight into your expenses that are not related to your personal goals and make suggestions to reduce them.
The material used to construct the window frame is an important factor in determining the cost of replacement windows. Aluminum and vinyl frames are the least costly alternatives, whereas wood and composite frames will cost more. Be aware of the pros and cons of each frame type to determine which one is suitable for your home. For instance, wood windows are more durable and offer better insulation, however they are susceptible to damage from moisture and require regular maintenance. Vinyl and aluminum windows are less expensive however, they are susceptible to rust and don’t provide the same amount of insulation as wood.
Your window replacement company will offer a variety of installation techniques that impact the cost overall. The most labor-intensive is a complete frame replacement. This involves taking down the entire window and replacing it with a brand new unit. This is usually recommended when your existing frames have begun to rot or are damaged, and it’s often required for old-fashioned renovation projects. An alternative that is less expensive is to use insert window replacement. During this process the operating hardware and sash are removed, but the exterior trim and siding remain intact. A new window is then placed into the opening, anchored to the wall, then insulated and sealed.
If you’re doing the work yourself, make sure you consider the cost of the equipment. A tape measure, a waterproof shim and caulk gun are all essential. Be sure to purchase shims with different thicknesses so that you can accommodate the various heights of your window sills and head jambs. Also, you’ll need elastomeric caulk to cover any gaps around the frame and the casing.
Installation
Windows come in a variety of shapes and sizes, to fit the architectural style of every home. There are options for single-hung, double glazed window replacement-hung, sliding bay bow, casement, circle garden, awning, jalousie and egress windows. These windows are available in a variety of different finishes and materials. Some are insulated for further energy efficiency.
If your windows are rotting, damaged or inefficient You can save money by replacing them with energy-efficient double-hung windows. The process is relatively easy and the results are worth it. In addition to the savings in cost, you will enjoy the benefits of a new beautiful, stunning window.
Before installing your new window, remove the screen and sash of the previous frame. This makes it easier to move the frame around and also protect the window’s materials. After the window is moved into position it’s time to apply caulk along both sides of the frame and around the gap, if any, using the caulk recommended for windows and doors.
Based on your preference and the condition of your current frame, you may choose to use plastic or cedar shims to ensure that the window sits properly in the opening. Be cautious not to over-shim your window, however, as this may cause condensation and water to build up inside the frame, which can cause deterioration of the frame.
Once the window is installed your installer will make sure the frame is level and well caulked and plumb. Then, you can reinstall any interior trim that was removed to accommodate the new window. Paint or stain the new window to be in keeping with the color scheme of your home. Seal and insulate the sill, jambs and flanges on the exterior of your house to ensure better performance of your windows.