Few home improvement projects have the potential to improve your home’s energy efficiency as dramatically as replacing old drafty windows. New double-pane windows are an investment that pay for themselves in lower heating costs within a few years. Choose a replacement window slightly smaller than the window jamb opening to allow for shimming. A well-shimmered window is crucial to a snug fit that will seal and operate smoothly. Check out this website at https://www.kelemerbrothers.com/ for more information.
What to Consider
The logistics and functioning of windows are something that many homeowners don’t think about, until they experience problems. If you’re experiencing dated styles, air leaks, water infiltration, or other problems, it might be time for window replacement.
New windows can add to your home’s curb appeal and can be a valuable investment for resale purposes. However, it’s important to consider the style of your home and how a new window will fit in with its existing design. Many different window types are available, and they can be customized with a variety of grid patterns and colors.
Another thing to keep in mind is the overall cost of window replacement. Many companies offer financing, so it’s important to check the terms and conditions before signing any documents. It’s also a good idea to compare the warranty terms of both the manufacturer and the installation company.
One final consideration is the amount of maintenance required for a certain type of window. For example, skylights can be a beautiful addition to a home, but they can be hard to clean consistently. They also require a ladder to access and may have tight tolerances that can cause moisture issues. You should also ask about the durability of a specific window type, as different frames are crafted from various materials.
Once you’ve considered all the factors, it’s a good idea to have a professional window installer do the work. They can help you select a style that will complement your home and make it look brand-new. In addition, they’ll be able to recommend the best types of window for your home and address any potential issues. Choosing the right contractor for the job can save you money and reduce the stress of the project.
Styles
There are many things to consider when choosing windows for your home, including frame material, glazing options and energy efficiency. However, window style plays an important role in determining the overall look and feel of your home. The style of your window can define your architectural home aesthetic, and it’s a great way to add visual interest and curb appeal. The right window can also protect your house from weather damage and make it easier to breathe fresh air and get natural light inside.
There’s a wide variety of window styles available, so you can find the perfect match for your home. The main types of windows include double-hung, sliding, picture, bay and bow, garden, casement, awning, hopper, and fixed windows.
Double-hung windows have two sashes that move vertically and open wide from either the top or bottom but remain within the frame. They’re a popular choice because they offer good ventilation and are easy to operate. However, over time counterbalance springs and sash cords may wear out and require regular maintenance. In addition, the large opening can create a break-in hazard for determined intruders.
Sliding windows slide open on a track and usually open from the left or right side of the frame, but not both at the same time. They’re often used in modern or contemporary homes and are great for opening up tight spaces with limited wall space. However, they may not provide the best insulation for cold climates.
Garden windows are a great option for kitchens as they protrude out from the house and provide a lot of extra sunlight and shelving space. They’re available in a range of sizes and styles, but the most common are rectangular shapes with one or more glass panes. They can be decorated with muntins (a group of fake dividing wood pieces) or with an arts and crafts style grid pattern.
Awning and casement windows open by turning a hand crank, making them popular in windy or rainy locations where you want to let in lots of air. They’re also great for hard-to-reach areas like above sinks and countertops.
Materials
Window frame material is an important consideration for your new replacement windows. You have many options to choose from including wood, vinyl and fiberglass. Each has its pros and cons.
Wood frames have an aesthetic that is timeless and can make a statement in your home. They also offer more design choices as they can be painted and stained to match your home’s color palette. However, they are more costly than other window frame materials and require more maintenance since they need to be repainted or restained on a regular basis. They can also be more susceptible to rot and other moisture-related damage.
Aluminum is another popular window frame option. It is strong and durable, with good thermal performance and can be painted to match your home’s color palette. It is more expensive than other types of window frames though and doesn’t insulate as well as others. It can be a good choice if you live in a warm climate but it’s best to consult with your retailer or contractor before choosing this type of window for areas with extreme temperature changes.
Fiberglass is a newer and highly recommended option for your home. It is made by embedding glass fibers in a polymer matrix through a process called pultrusion. It has good energy-efficiency and provides a sound barrier. It is highly resistant to rotting and corrosion. Like vinyl, it can be manufactured in custom colors and is available from all the top manufacturers.
If you’re looking for the most energy-efficient window option then you will want to consider insulated windows. These have two or more panes of glass that are hermetically sealed with a gap between them. This space is then filled with a gas such as argon that helps to regulate the heat and cold in your home. These are more costly than traditional windows but can save you a significant amount on your utility bills.
Installation
While you’re purchasing your replacement windows, ask about the installation process. It’s important that your professional window installer takes the necessary steps to prepare and install the new windows correctly. For example, a contractor should lay down drop cloths inside and outside the window openings to minimize any dust or debris that might be kicked up during the installation. They should also remove any blinds or curtain rods that are located within the frame area. In addition, they should take down storm windows and remove any existing window screens if they’re present. Then, they should carefully remove the existing window sashes from the aluminum track and remove any fasteners that hold them in place. After removing the sashes, they should inspect and clean the aluminum tracks.
Next, they should measure the width and height of the existing frame using a tape measure in multiple spots. They should choose the shortest measurement in both dimensions, subtract 1/8-inch, and write it down. This will ensure the new window is a proper fit for the existing opening. Finally, they should install shims between the framing boards at each corner of the window and at each pre-drilled screw location to ensure the window sits properly. The shims should be plastic so they don’t mildew and expand over time.
Once the window is framed in, it’s important to caulk around the entire perimeter of the new window to prevent water drops and drafts from damaging it. They should also apply a bead of exterior window caulk to the head expander, if it’s installed, so it creates a seal with the existing wall. In addition, they should install run-off moulding to protect the stool of the window from raindrops and a supplementary air barrier on the nailing fin underneath the window.
Before beginning the installation, a contractor should test for lead and asbestos to avoid disturbing hazardous materials. They should also notify neighbors and businesses that might be affected by the work. Additionally, they should remove any curtains or blinds from the window openings and move furniture and wall decorations away from the areas that are being worked on.