Your Home’s Windows: 9 Things to Know Before Replacing Them


Are you also considering upgrading your house’s look? Then it is vital to upgrade your house windows.  But do you know, one of the most stressful tasks in home remodelling projects is to replace or install windows? From preparation to cost there are various factors that might affect your decision. 

skylight windows

But first, you should check whether your windows really need replacing or not. And this can be known by various signs. Let’s consider wood windows, they become very hard to handle when they are ready to be replaced. 

Replacing the faulty ones with replacement windows will improve the overall look and ambience. Plus, the perfect replacement windows will improve the utility of the area. You can easily replace your old and dusty windows with energy-efficient ones. 

New replacement windows will not be draughty and will be easy to clean. Ultimately, changing a few of your old windows with these new ones will elevate the home’s comfort above all else. Here are some points you should consider before replacing the windows in your home.

1. Identify the Actual Problem With the Window

Before you replace the window, pinpoint and troubleshoot the exact problem. This way, you can save your new windows from facing the same issue. 

One of the biggest reasons behind failed windows is moisture. If moisture accumulates around the window, replace it immediately. You should be more concerned about your windows if you observe mould inside the window.

The fogging between window panes causes condensation on the inner side of the window. Special seals in the window panes hold a double pane in its place. They can harden and crack over time. In the case of vinyl windows, the frame expands in heat and contracts in winter. 

The pattern of expansion and contraction leads to cracks in the seal. When the seal cracks, fogging occurs, resulting in a failed window.

2. Consider the Life Span of Your Windows

Like everything around us, windows also have a fixed life span. Different types of windows have different life spans. If you maintain your windows properly, they can last 20 to 50 years. If you plan to replace the windows in your home, you should check for the life span of the windows.

The high-quality glass windows undergo some problems when they are near to expiry. Many companies claim to provide windows with lifetime warranties. But these windows have low quality. It is because the manufacturers produce many windows in standard sizes.

If you have an economy window with insulated glass, it might lose its seal within a few years. As a result, the windows start to unbalance. You will begin to observe problems in operating them.

Improper installation can also reduce the life span of the windows. Poor window installation allows air, water, and insects to enter your house. As a result, there is damage to the frames of windows, dampening the flow of natural light, and you will need to replace them soon.

3. Repairing the Old Window Might Be a Better Option

Before you spend a lot of money on replacement windows, check the older windows for any repairs. When you identify the problem, repairing the window might be less expensive than replacing it. Improving the window will increase its life span, making a choice more financially sound.

windows and door

If you want to check the condition of your windows, you should ask a contractor to conduct a window inspection. They are experts in their task, and they can tell you if repairing the window is a good decision or not. You can compare the prices and the benefits of both the possibilities. You can decide which approach is more favourable for you. 

If you want to repair your existing windows, then you can consider one of the following options.

  • Check if your windows have any air leakage
  • Weatherstrip them to protect them from moisture
  • To increase privacy and to reduce the light entrance in your space, you can go for exterior shades and shutters

4. The Number of Windows You Need to Replace

Replacing the windows is a complex and expensive process. If the homeowner replaces all the windows at once, he might face financial pressure. The most significant deciding factor in replacing all the windows depends on your budget. 

If you want to install a new set of energy-efficient windows within your budget, then it is better to replace all windows at once.

If the window installation is not in your budget, you can perform it in two to three stages. It is better to start from the front of the house and move towards the back. You can also consult a professional for help.

5. Cost of New Windows

When replacing windows in your house, many factors contribute to the process. The final replacement price includes various other expenses along with the cost of new windows. The cost depends upon the size, style, quality, and the number of windows you need.

Vinyl and wood are common materials used in window frames. Wood frames are more expensive than vinyl frames. Vinyl frames are easy to clean, and they last for a longer time. Wooden shelves are more costly to maintain. 

Consider all the critical factors and their costs when you buy new windows.

6. Selecting the Right Replacement Windows

It would be best if you considered various factors when choosing the replacement windows for your home. Some essential elements are the window type, material, glass package, and budget.

window-blinds

When you select a window, check for the type of frame. Most window frames are made of wood, fiberglass, and vinyl. Vinyl is the essential material used in window frames. It is easier to maintain.

The most popular type of windows is double-hung windows. These windows are tilted into your house so you can clean them easily. Sliding windows are also a good choice. They are more comprehensive, and they take less space. The most energy-efficient windows are crank-out windows. You can use them in many openings.

The type of glass in your window is more important than the type of frame or the window. You can select any glass package from the available options. It is better to choose energy-efficient glass. Double or triple-paned glass can help in heating your house during cold weather.   

7. Select the Right Time to Replace the Windows

Many homeowners think they can replace windows anytime during the year. It is better to replace the windows during late spring, summer, and early fall. The weather is warmer these days, so replacing the windows can be more manageable. 

Replacing a window in your home will take half to one hour, but it can affect the temperature of your house. If you cannot stand cold this time, replacing the windows at the warmer time of the year is ideal.

8. Preparations Before Window Replacement

You need to prepare the site before replacing the windows. You need to remove all the curtains or blinds from your windows opening. It is better to remove all the obstacles from the window’s interior. Hence, it will become easy to set and caulk the new windows.

If any valuable thing or furniture is present near the windows, move it at least 3 feet away from the windows. If you have any alarm systems in the windows, you should inform the alarm company before removing them. They will remove the sensors and then reinstall them with the new windows.

9. Hire a Professional to Install the New Windows

You can replace the windows yourself with some instructions. We recommend hiring a professional installation company to perform the task.

Replacing the windows is a costly task. There is a risk that you will make a mistake while installing them. The installation can go out of your budget in such conditions. So, it is better to seek professional aid.

Conclusion

Your windows start giving you signs of damage. When you observe them, it is better to replace the windows immediately. However, there are a few things that you need to consider before replacing them. 

We have discussed most of the essential factors that will help you make the right decision. Take help from these tips and replace your windows with the best ones.