The best window replacement options meet your vision and home needs without breaking the bank. A variety of factors affect the cost of replacement windows, including style, size, material and installation.
Investing in professional installation is often worth it. Skilled do-it-yourselfers can save on labor costs, but using a pro also ensures your project is done correctly and offers protection with warranties. Contact Your Home Exterior Solutions for professional help.
The frame of a window is the stationary components that enclose either the sash on an operating window or the glass in a direct-glazed window. This includes the head jamb, side jambs and sill. Window frames are responsible for keeping panes of glass firmly in place, but they also protect a home from the elements and improve energy efficiency. The right window frame will last a long time and add beauty to a home’s aesthetic.
Window frames come in a variety of styles and materials, and each offers its own unique benefits. Wood frames look traditional and offer good insulation. Metal frames are affordable, durable and easy to maintain. Vinyl is a great choice for many homeowners because it’s moisture resistant and won’t warp or require staining or painting. However, it doesn’t insulate well enough to keep your home comfortable year-round.
During a window replacement, the old frame is removed and replaced with a new one that fits your specific needs and style. Window frame replacement requires precision to ensure a tight seal and optimal operation. It’s also important to select a contractor with experience replacing windows, and who uses high-quality products to ensure longevity.
If you have signs of a faulty frame, it’s important to repair it before the damage worsens. Some signs include significant drafts, condensation between double-paned windows or visible rot or water damage. Window framing replacement is typically a simple project for experienced contractors.
Aside from function, the frame also determines how your windows will look. Some frames are plain, while others have a more decorative and intricate appearance that improves a home’s curb appeal. A good window replacement company will have a variety of frame options to help you find the perfect fit for your house and budget.
In addition to the main frame structure, you’ll need to choose any necessary hardware or accessories. These can include sash locks and stops, lift handles, sash guides, stop caps, a stool and grilles. Your installation team will help you select the right frame options to complete your new replacement windows.
Glass
As your windows age, they can begin to wear out and require replacement parts. Window parts like latches, hinges, locks and handles should be regularly cleaned to remove rust or debris and lubricated to ensure smooth operation. Window parts like glazing and weatherstripping prevent air and moisture from entering your home, improving energy efficiency. Damaged or worn seals should be promptly replaced to maintain insulation and reduce drafts.
New glass options provide homeowners with the opportunity to increase energy-efficiency, improve a view, or enhance privacy. For instance, you can upgrade your standard single-pane glass to Low emissivity (Low-E) glass that helps reflect heat and keep your home more comfortable and efficient. Other enhancements include argon gas fill that insulates between the panes for increased thermal performance, or a solar control coating to limit unwanted sun penetration and interior heat gain.
Your window replacement specialist will be able to help you select the best glazing option for your home and climate. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, consider impact-resistant windows that can withstand high winds and flying debris, as well as a storm shutter to protect your interior from wind-driven rain. Or, if you want to maximize natural light and views in your home, consider slimline windows that feature narrow sashes for a clean aesthetic.
Other popular choices include double-pane or triple-pane glass, Low-E coating upgrades or combinations, insulated sills and spacers, and laminated glass. The most important thing is to find the right blend of style, functionality and durability to meet your home’s needs.
Many homeowners try to match their replacement hardware with existing hardware throughout the house. However, it’s not always necessary, especially when mixing metal finishes. Choose a main color and use different finishes to create a complementary look, or accent with a few pieces of hardware in different colors for a more subtle look.
Design
When customers are shopping for windows, they may want to consider different styles that can match the architecture of their home. They might also want to choose a style that will make cleaning and maintenance easier. In addition, many homeowners are concerned about energy efficiency and want to know if there are options available.
Window design is one aspect that can impact the overall price of a window and can be affected by materials, glazing type, frame material, glass coatings and seals and other hardware. For example, wood frames are often more expensive than aluminum or vinyl windows. However, the increased cost for wood windows comes with the added benefit of energy-efficient features, including better resistance to weather changes and lower heating and cooling costs.
The casing, or trim, around the edges of the window helps keep the frame and sash together. The window trim can be made of wood, metal or fiberglass. It can be painted or left natural to complement the surrounding décor.
In addition to the frame and sash, some windows include screens or weep holes. Screens, which are typically woven of metal, plastic or fiberglass, provide ventilation while keeping insects out of the house. Weep holes, on the other hand, are individual openings in the window sill that allow water or condensation to escape.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a new window is its ability to open and close easily. This is important not only to ensure that the window will be able to meet a homeowner’s needs but also for safety and security reasons. Windows that are difficult to open and close can become a fire hazard, especially in an emergency situation.
Other hardware, such as a vent limiter or night latch, can help increase the safety and ease of operation of the window. These devices are designed to prevent the sash from closing too far, but they can still be opened for airflow. They can be installed on most single- or double-hung windows, sliding windows and casement and awning windows.
Some windows also feature special coatings that can reduce the amount of radiant heat allowed through the window or even reflect it back into the room. This can significantly improve a home’s energy efficiency. This type of glass is typically called Low-E and has a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) below or equal to 0.25.
Installation
Depending on the size of the window, the window frame can be assembled either in-place or in a separate window opening. The installation process can vary based on the type of frame, materials used in the wall system and whether the window is being installed as a new-construction or replacement window. A skilled professional will be able to help homeowners understand what to expect for the best results.
A high-quality contractor will take precautions to protect the home from debris, dirt and weather during the replacement window installation process. For example, tarps will be placed over any area where construction will occur to minimize damage. They will also keep the work area clean, sweeping and vacuuming continuously to avoid leaving dust and debris behind. They may even offer to move furniture and other decorations if necessary.
The process of replacing a window will start by carefully removing the old sash and panels without damaging the wall and frame. A utility knife can be used to cut through any sealant or caulk holding the window in place, allowing the sash to slide free. Once the window is loose, a level can be used to ensure it is plumb and level. If it isn’t, wooden shims can be added to the frame to ensure proper alignment and positioning.
With the window sash removed, the installer will add insulation to the gap between the new frame and the existing wall. Adding insulation helps prevent heat loss and cold air infiltration, saving homeowners money on energy costs. A putty knife is then used to stuff the insulation into any cracks and voids around the window, making sure not to overstuff. Then, exterior caulk is applied to seal the gap and prevent water leaks.
Once the caulk is dry, the installer can add screws along the flange of the window to keep it in place. The screws should be tight, but not so tight that they deform the frame or interfere with the sash operation. The installer will then sand any rough areas on the new frame and finish with paint, if desired.