Top Advantages Of Replacement Windows
One look at your windows is all it takes to realize something needs to change. At first, the plan focuses on having the old windows ripped out and investing in complete replacements. While talking with a contractor, you are told about the option of investing in replacement windows. This solution does deserve some attention, especially in light of the advantages that replacement windows have to offer. Here are some examples to think about before you make your final choice.
Less Time to Install
As you begin to explore the possibility of installing replacement windows, a lot of people will point out the amount of time saved on the installation. That’s because there’s less work that must be done in order to complete the job.
With these types of windows, it isn’t necessary to remove the entire frame. Instead, the focus is on removing the old sashes, rails, and other elements that are no longer in decent shape. Assuming the frames are still in decent condition, you’ll have to do almost nothing to them. That helps to minimize the amount of time needed to install the new windows. Thanks to this benefit, it’s possible to replace every window in your home in as much as half the time.
Less Cleanup After the Installation
With a traditional window replacement, you can expect some cosmetic damage on the outside and the inside. Since this approach calls for removing the frame, the professional will need to chip away at part of the home façade. You’ll also find that some alterations have to be done to the interior walls surrounding each window.
With replacement windows, all of that damage is eliminated. Since the frame remains in place, there’s no need for any chipping or alterations to the interior or exterior walls. The contractor who does the installation won’t have to secure the windows in place and then undo any damage.
A Tight Fit
The designs for these types of windows include what is referred to as a Z-bar or a flush fin. The fin fits around the edges of the window proper and makes it possible to custom fit it to the dimensions of each window frame. It doesn’t take much to alter the fin and ensure the fit is snug even before any steps are taken to secure the window in place.
This advantage is particularly helpful if you own an older home. Prior to the middle of the 20th century, it was not unusual for the windows in a home to differ slightly in size. The difference was often not enough to be noticeable to the naked eye, but it did complicate the process of installing new windows and frames.
With replacement windows, it makes no difference if every window in your home is a half-inch off from the other windows in the room. The fins will easily fill in the space. Once any necessary adjustments are made, the windows are secured in place using screws and then a little caulking. Only you and the contractor will know if any of the window frames are not exactly the same dimensions.
The Chance to Consider Different Window Styles
Like any type of window, replacement windows they come in different styles. Perhaps your old windows happened to be an awning design. That means they were hinged at the top so you could swing out the bottom to let fresh air in the house. Perhaps they were single hung windows and you would really like double hung windows instead. Go over the pros and cons of different styles with an expert and rest assured you can find replacement windows in the style you want.
Easier to Heat and Cool Your Home
The tight fit that comes with those newly replaced windows serves you well in several ways. One has to do with saving money on heating and cooling costs. Those older windows probably allowed more air seepage than you realized. Since the new windows fit flush into the frames and are caulked to seal any tiny spaces, your HVAC system will not have to use as much energy to keep the indoor temperature at the level you prefer. Lower energy consumption translates into lower utility costs that you will enjoy every month.
Your New Windows and Pest Protection
Tiny spaces around windows also make it easier for insects and other pests to find their way into your home. Thanks to the tight seal on your new windows, those points of entry are no longer available. That reduces the odds of noticing something creeping along the baseboard when you are watching television one night.
A Long-Lasting Solution
Those replacement inserts are designed to last for decades. That’s good news for you, since the plan is to replace the windows now and never have to worry about doing it again. You’ll find that the warranty and guarantee that comes with the windows is just as thorough as the protections offered on traditional replacement windows. Best of all, if you choose to go with vinyl replacement windows, you minimize the amount of painting and other maintenance needed to keep the windows looking their best.
The Cost
At some point, you’ll want to compare the cost of this solution with other window replacement options, Factors like the window style will have some impact on the expense, but you’ll find in general that the cost of purchasing and installing replacement windows is more affordable. That’s due to the reduced amount of labor needed for the installation, coupled with the fact that the frames don’t have to be replaced.
The decision of what to do with your aging windows is not something to take lightly. Take your time and explore all the options. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions that come to mind, and always consider what each option would do in terms of making your house more comfortable and functional. The care that you put into finding the right solution today will pay off in a big way as the years pass.