Homeowner’s Guide To Replacing Windows: 8 Things To Know & Expect
As a homeowner, there’s a kind of therapeutic effect when you redesign your home. You choose new tiles, wall paint, new windows, and a backsplash for different rooms. You feel closer to your home because it’s becoming more personalized. And by expressing yourself through art, the home becomes a part of you that you treasure too.
In fact, for the past couple of years, the top 3 improvement projects of homeowners are interior painting, bathroom remodeling, and installing smart home appliances. It is also notable that kitchen cabinet and window replacements are also included.
While homeowners love redecorating their spaces, deciding to opt for a window replacement and install additional replacement window screens can be stressful. But hey, doing so will greatly affect the natural lighting you get inside your home.
There are a lot of factors to think about when deciding the best window type and glazing for your interior. But don’t worry! We’ll discuss the things you need to consider when looking for the best home replacement windows.
How Do You Know When It’s Time for a Window Replacement?
Window replacement isn’t something you should decide on lightly when renovating your home. After all, they can be costly. Before deciding what to do and installing replacement windows, you have to make sure that it’s about time to do so. But what are the deciding factors you should consider?
1. When It Can Reduce Energy Costs
You might be wondering what windows have to do with energy costs because where’s the connection? But heat gain and loss through windows significantly affect the use of heating, ventilation, and air cooling (HVAC) systems. That’s why you’ll notice how there’s a difference in your energy bill during certain seasons.
For example, without good ventilation, your bill skyrockets during the summer due to HVAC usage.
Hence, you can consult professionals about window replacement to make them energy-efficient. With their experience, they can guide you to finding the best replacement for your home.
2. When You’re Experienced Drafts
When something is damaged in your home, you’d want to fix it as much as possible before replacement. However, if you’re feeling air passing through a closed window, that’s a draft. It means there’s a crack either in the window’s framing or the glass itself.
Sad to say, a draft calls for a window replacement in the future. Instead of spending resources to fix it, you’ll save more money by replacing it immediately.
3. When the Tint has Worn Off
It’s natural for the window tint to wear over time, but there are instances when it signals something more. When the tint covering the window peels, your privacy can be at risk. It will allow outsiders to peek through. Thus, home replacement windows are needed ASAP.
4. When You’re Experiencing Difficulty Operating Windows
A window is meant to open or close with ease or else, there’s something wrong. A replacement may be required if it’s getting difficult to operate the window. You may be experiencing it due to a warped frame or busted hinges. One thing is for sure, something is impairing its ability to function properly.
5. When It Has Needed Too Many Repairs
It’s normal to have house repairs now and then, but there’s a limit to how much you can do. Your windows can have a long history with one or more repair jobs, but you can’t repair them forever. Sometimes, home replacement windows are necessary and help you save more.
For example, after a lot of repairs, your windows still aren’t functioning properly. Or it’s been needing more repairs more often than it used to as well. Then, that’s when you throw in the towel and look for ways to replace your windows.
3 Things to Consider When Buying Home Replacement Windows
1. Consider Your Budget
Of course, you have to consider your budget when it comes to any home renovation project. Home replacement windows are no exception to this part of the plan. It’s important to figure out how much new windows cost and how much you can afford to shell out early in the replacement process.
The final bill can always change depending on some factors so it’s important to keep some things in mind. For example, don’t get too attached to a certain style or material until you’re certain your wallet can handle it. If it’s a big project, you might want to consult a window contractor or professional as early as possible.
2. Think if it’s Energy-Efficient
Windows are more than a tool to let light into your home. They let hot and cool air out of the room which potentially drives your energy bills up. You have to weigh various factors against energy loss when deciding how to replace your windows.
With technological advancement, you have a wide range of stylish and energy-efficient options. Keep in mind that there are many features that you can include that add to the starting price. Hence, budgeting is really important so you don’t go over what you can pay for. But ultimately, this will help reduce your energy bill significantly in the long run.
3. Consider Your Home’s Architecture and Setting
The architecture and landscape of your home play a vital role in how your window looks and functions. Depending on its style, it’s recommended to get windows that match or don’t look out of place. If you own a modern house, a contemporary window option might look great.
Another thing to consider when buying windows is where the sun rises and sets over your home. Some parts of the house are exposed more to sunlight, hence, a smaller window is recommended. You can also opt to have UV protection applied to that window. For rooms that don't receive much light, you don’t have to pay for an elaborate picture window.
Conclusion
Home renovation is not a cheap project, so it’s best to be as well-informed as possible before making decisions. In the case of window replacement, there are several factors that can decide if it’s needed. If your windows aren’t energy-efficient or you’re experiencing a draft, then it’s time to change them.
There are also cases when the paint around the window is peeling and the material is already rotting. Or perhaps the windows are becoming increasingly difficult to operate, then a replacement is due.
You can try to have your windows repaired, but understand that repairs can only go so far. And if you’re not how to proceed, consulting window contractors will help guide you.
Professionals will know how much budget you should allot for the material of your window replacement. They should be updated with the latest technology and options for energy-efficient windows. And finally, they should be able to recommend the best style considering the architecture of your home.
