If you’re considering a window replacement project, there are several factors to consider. The most important is your budget, but other considerations include the type of windows you’d like to have installed and the company that will be doing the work. This guide will walk you through all these considerations, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s time to install new windows for your home.
Why Replace My Windows?
Replacing your windows is a smart choice for many reasons. It’s an affordable way to update the look of your home and protect it from damaging elements. New windows will not only make your home more attractive, but they’ll also save on energy costs over time by reducing drafts and noise levels, as well as lowering your monthly utility bills. You should consider window replacement if:
- Your current windows are in disrepair or are drafty: If you have old, outdated, leaky, or broken windows—or if you simply want all-new window treatments—then it’s time to consider replacing them with new ones that offer greater comfort, security, and style.
- Your current windows may not be safe for your family: Older single-pane glass doesn’t provide adequate energy efficiency or thermal protection—and can even pose health risks from toxins released from poor insulation materials. New double-paned glass gives you much better protection against storms, keeps out unwanted noise pollution, and prevents UV rays from harming your health and personal belongings.
Types of Replacement Windows
There are four main types of replacement windows: vinyl, wood, fiberglass, and aluminum. As each window type has pros and cons, it’s important to understand the basics of each, so you can make an informed decision on what’s best for your home:
- Vinyl: Vinyl windows have an aluminum or wood frame with a vinyl, wood, or metal insert. These inserts can be tinted to match the interior decor of your home and help reduce heat loss in winter. The frames are often reinforced with fiberglass mesh that makes them more durable and resistant to sound infiltration. They’re affordable, easy to install, and available in a variety of sizes and styles—including double hung, casement, bay & bow.
- Wood: Wood is an excellent choice for homeowners who want their homes to stand out from other houses on their street while also enjoying low-maintenance features.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass windows are made from glass fibers bonded together under high temperatures. These fibers give this type of material strength similar to steel but weigh only about one third as much per square foot. At the same time, fiberglass replacement windows remain durable against rusting or cracking over time.
Key Considerations When Replacing Your Windows
Not every window replacement company is created equally. When you’re looking to replace your windows, here are a few things to consider before signing on the dotted line:
- Cost effectiveness: Before moving forward with a project, make sure it’s cost effective for you to replace your windows. You’ll want to weigh the benefits and costs before moving forward with any project—including things like material and energy efficiency.
- Quality installation: It’s important to find a capable installer who will be able to deliver quality work at an affordable price—and who won’t leave a mess behind once they’ve finished installing new windows.
- Warranties: Many homeowners overlook warranties when purchasing new windows for their homes, but this isn’t something that should be done lightly. Warranties can protect homeowners from unexpected expenses down the road if anything goes wrong with newly installed windows.
Hiring a Quality Window Replacement Company
Before you choose a window replacement company, there are steps you should take to ensure your contractor will provide the best service possible. First and foremost, be sure that your contractor is local—this ensures that they can respond quickly if an issue arises after installing your new windows. You’ll also want to check references and ask about warranties to get an idea of how well they stand behind their workmanship. Another important thing to consider when selecting a window replacement company is what type of energy efficiency rating their products have: higher ratings mean better insulation, which means lower utility bills.
We hope this guide has helped you understand the different types of replacement windows and how they can improve your home. If you’re ready to start shopping for new windows for your home, we encourage you to contact us today so one of our experienced window specialists can assist with finding the right options for your needs!
