Replacement windows will not only add to your home’s curb appeal, interior, natural sun light, they’ll also reduce noise and monthly heating and cooling expenses. But these added benefits begin immediately following the installation.
This seems like a big change for just one home improvement, but it’s the truth! As far as home improvement projects go, replacement windows easily provide one of the biggest and best returns on any home improvement investment. This article will help homeowners understand the many benefits of investing in replacement windows.
Questions
Are you currently a homeowner who is considering replacing the windows in your home? Or, as a homeowner, do you have questions concerning if or when’s the right time to replace the existing windows in your home? Some homeowners may find it challenging, but there are simple and easy signs that demonstrate if a window needs to be repaired or replaced.
The Signs
Some signs include cracked or chipped glass, cold drafts, condensation, and frost or ice forming on or around the windows of your home. All of these issues can and will take a toll on your home, robbing your home of its value, energy efficiency, natural sun light-in other words increasing your monthly heating and cooling costs.
If you have concerns, it’s always good to closely examine the existing windows in your home before you needlessly commit to such a large investment. Some of the existing windows in your home may just need a few small repairs, but if you still have concerns don’t hesitate from contacting a local window replacement expert.
Considerations
Here are a few things to consider before you make any repairs or invest in new replacement windows:
* Do you notice any decaying or rotting on your current window frames?
* Is it difficult to open or close your existing windows?
* During the winter time, do you feel cold air or drafts around your existing windows?
* Are the rooms in your home uncomfortably cold in the winter and hot in the summer?
* Does it take great effort to clean the existing windows in your home?
* Do you feel new replacement windows would improve the overall look and feel of your home?
If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, replacing the windows in your home just might be the right solution for you.
Once you have decided to replace the existing windows in your home with new, energy efficient replacement windows, you’ll have a few options to consider; wood, vinyl, aluminum, clad or composite.
Wood: Solid wood is pleasant to look at and does a good job providing insulation. The potentially high expense and maintenance demands are really the only downsides to wood. Maintenance is important because wood is organic and can be damaged by water. Thus, mold can grow and the wood can rot.
Vinyl: windows are lower maintenance and reasonably priced. But the vinyl finish can fade over time.
Aluminum: is a very affordable and consists of low-maintenance. Over the last few years aluminum windows have grown greatly in popularity due to their style. However, aluminum can transfer heat and cold, and therefore can tend to cause some issues with energy efficiency.
Clad: windows tend to be the most expensive frame material. Clad windows have a wooden core and a vinyl or metal shell. The wood tends to lessen the passing of hot and cold air. The metal, however, is intended to protect the wooden core. Very little maintenance is required-as an added bonus.
Composite: Fabricated composites are designed to withstand the test of time. They come in a large variety of styles and colors that allows homeowners to mix and match windows in their living space. As always, prices can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Be sure to contact Dr. Energy Saver Virginia for more information about replacement window options as well as ways to save energy in Virginia.
