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6 Signs You Need to Replace & Upgrade Your Windows ASAP

windows

Your house cannot talk to you if it needs fixing; however, it gives you different signs if something wrong. Your windows are a particularly communicative element of your residence. Although they do not last forever, well-maintained and high-quality windows can last for two decades or even more.

Windows are tough but they aren’t immune to wear and tear or deterioration. Even if you give them the highest level of care, a window replacement or upgrade may still be necessary eventually.

So if your windows are more than a decade years old, you must listen to what they are trying to tell you. This way, you will know when they must be replaced or upgraded. Here are some of the important signs to watch out for.

1. Your energy bill becomes remarkably high

Your windows will provide some heat during the cold months by letting in sunlight. But if you have drafty windows, your energy bills can increase by up to 25 percent.

So it is a must for you to replace and upgrade them and opt for energy-efficient windows. Storm windows, caulking, and weatherstripping can be used to prevent air leakage from outside.

However, you should not assume that all windows are created equal. It is crucial for you to consider your specific needs, especially your location. Consult reputable window specialists in your area to know which types of windows best suit your property.

2. They are broken, damaged or warped

There are instances where repairing windows is more practical than replacing them entirely. If your windows need new hardware or weatherstripping, a repair can be the best option. But for damaged, broken, or warped window frames or sashes, window specialists recommend replacement instead of repair. With repair work, your windows may remain operable but they will surely develop problems sooner.

3. Noise easily penetrates your home interior

Aside from cold air, sound can also penetrate through failing windows.

If you are living in a warm climate, you may notice the noise before you even notice a draft. Most property owners who have invested in new windows claim an increased sense of quietness, which is a major advantage if your home is close to highways or airports or is located in a busy neighborhood.

A double-pane window does well in blocking sounds and offers an added buffer zone between your home’s interior and exterior.

4. It feels drafty

One of the warning signs that your windows need replacement is discomfort. If you feel air coming through a closed window, the seals are already failing.

Remember that slight draft is not a minor issue because it can throw off the temperature indoors, making your HVAC system work harder just to keep up.

Though you may use insulating curtains, weatherstripping, and caulk to stave off heat loss, these are not permanent solutions. The best thing you can do to a drafty window is to replace it.

5. Condensation builds up in between glass panes

If your windows fog up and there is condensation build-up inside their glazings, you are looking at seal failure. Moisture enters the space in between the glass panes if the seals fail.

You may even notice some ice and frost build-up during the colder months. When your window seal is broken, its insulating capacity is extremely compromised. Window replacement is your only option.

6. You have trouble opening or closing windows

Stuck windows are not just an annoyance but are a potential hazard as well. A closed window may refuse to open in case of an emergency while an open window may suddenly slam shut.

If your windows’ open/close mechanisms are poorly functioning, this is a sign that your windows are out of balance. This can leave your home vulnerable to water, air and other particles getting in and out of your property.

By replacing worn-out windows, you can definitely create a more reliable, stronger barrier between you and your home exterior.

A window replacement project can be costly, but it is worth it. New windows can help you save money on your monthly energy bills, and add to your level of comfort at home. You can actually get years of quality service from properly installed windows. If you are lucky, you might not even worry about replacing your windows in the duration of your stay in your house.

However, if you ever need to replace your windows, make sure to have them installed by reputable window manufacturers. This is your best guarantee that your windows will leave you worry-free for decades to come.

AUTHOR BIO

Carmen Velilla is an experienced Brand Manager currently overseeing the strategic development of multiple brands as part of the Epwin Group. She is an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (ACIM), specializing in Corporate Communication and Digital Marketing.

 

Window Wonder: 4 Reasons to Replace Your Windows This Year

Window Wonder, 4 Reasons to Replace Your Windows This Year

Windows need to be replaced just like any other equipment in the house. You know that repairs are necessary, but it is not always clear when you should tend to your battered windows. You should not wait until there are cracks or seams present to take action. It is, instead, essential to be proactive in all home repairs including window maintenance. Here are four good reasons to replace your windows this year.

You Get Better Energy Efficiency

Heating and cooling costs are not coming down in the near future. You stand to lose hundreds, perhaps thousands, of dollars every year by not tending to old windows and broken seals. Energy efficient windows provide insulating features such as low-E coatings that deflect instead of absorbing heat on sunny days. You position yourself to save as much as 25 percent off your electric bill by just replacing your home’s windows.

Noise Is Reduced with New Windows

The eyes of your home do not do well to keep out the noise from school children and airplanes flying when they are old. New windows with fresh panes can block out some of the sounds outside so that you can be alone with your thoughts more often.

New Windows Keep the Weather out

You love rain and snow, but you are not a fan of mold and mildew. Many homeowners do not realize that windows are the first defense to guard against the harmful substance forming in the home. Replacing these vital components closes open areas where moisture could come in and creates a healthier environment for you and the family.

Safety Increases When You Replace

There is no absolute way to keep yourself from tragedies. You and the family may gather around the fireplace for a night of fun and find yourselves in the middle of a blazing fire. It is during such time of crisis that you need to know that all exits work. How horrendous would it be to run to the window, which may be the only exit, only to find that it is not functioning correctly? This is why you should not put off replacing your windows.

Many home repairs do not require your immediate attention. New windows, however, is not one of these fixes. Work with a contractor like Pella Windows and Doors of Wisconsin or someone similar to get your window replacements taken care of as soon as you can. You need to maintain excellent glass and panels to ensure the safety and energy efficiency of your home. You do not want to wait until it is too late to focus on overdue repairs.

Hiring A Window & Door Contractor

There are plenty of repairs and upgrades around the home that you can do yourself with a little practice and the right tools. Installing new windows or doors, however, is something that’s outside most do-it-yourselfers’ comfort zones. Hiring a professional contractor to handle the installation of new windows and doors in your home is essential for ensuring that the job is done properly, and your new windows and doors will fit well enough to prevent drafts and last for a long time. However, hiring the right contractor for the job can be a job in and of itself. Homeowners need to be aware of the signs that the contractors they have chosen are the right ones for their project.

Repairing or replacing doors and windows can be expensive, but not as expensive as it can be to live with the consequences of substandard work from an unqualified contractor. Improperly installed windows and doors can hurt your home’s energy efficiency, lead to costly repairs, and negatively impact the look and resale value of your home. Choosing the right contractor is more than a matter of choosing the lowest bid. Homeowners should consider numerous factors before making the decision to hire a contractor. If you’re considering hiring a professional contractor to install or repair windows or doors in your home, consult the following checklist to make sure you choose wisely and do your due diligence before and after the project. Doing so can ensure that your new windows and doors will last as long as you want them to and that your contractor won’t take advantage of you.

Checklist For Hiring A Window & Door Contractor created by Midwest Window & Door

Tips To Know Before You Buy Replacement Windows

There are lots of reasons to buy replacement windows for your home. Though whether you’re replacing your windows to fix a draft, save on your energy bills, or simply improve your home’s outward appearance, odds are you’ll need to replace them at some point — if you’re in your home long enough. That means, all homeowners will need to think about replacement windows at one point or another. Even if you’re not planning on staying in your current home for much longer, windows typically are one of the first things people notice about a home. With that in mind, you may want to consider replacing yours to boost the resale value. Replacing windows is recognized as one of the best investments you can make in a home to help its resale value.

Replacing the windows in your home is important, but it also can be a complicated and confusing process, given the sheer number of window products out there. In addition to different styles and materials, windows also can incorporate varying energy-efficiency features. Plus, depending on where you are, you may need something completely different than someone in another part of the country. You might also want to choose options that require little maintenance. You don’t want to find out after your new windows are installed that you’ll need to devote some time to them for regular maintenance.

If you’re in the market for replacement windows, consider the guide below. It provides you with some basics to keep in mind when looking for the right new windows for your home depending on your preferences, needs and location. No matter why you need to replace your windows, you want to be sure that the windows you choose will be the best possible choice for you and your home.

 

Infographic created by Erdmann Exterior Designs

Author bio: Kyle Erdmann is Vice President of Erdmann Exteriors. Being a second-generation Erdmann, he was brought up in a construction household. With over 10 years of experience, Kyle has done everything in the company from being a general laborer to the installation of the product, so he can answer any question you can possibly have. Also, experience has taught Kyle a lot about design; his designs have been considered for awards from James Hardie. With a degree in hospitality management, customer service is always top on Kyle’s list, and many customers have given positive reviews on their experience working with him. Passionate about baseball, he currently volunteers at his old high school’s program. 

An Insight into Energy-Efficient Windows

energy efficient windows

In the wake of winter, most homeowners begin to dread the prospects of high energy bills and inadequately heated living areas. Even with seamless weather-stripping and optimal external and internal insulation, there will always be a few phantom heat leaks that may compromise the comfort of your home.

As a general rule, windows are the biggest heat outlet and if not outfitted with the right type of panes, they can considerably up your electricity bills without providing warmth that goes with the price. To keep freezing temperatures and high energy expenses at bay this winter, opt for energy-efficient windows with either double- or triple-glazing. If the idea sounds worth a go, here are some retrofit window basics to help you pick the right set of new panes for your home.

How energy-efficient windows work

Double-glazed windows consist of two panes separated by a gap (usually 16 millimeters wide). The air trapped between the two glass sheets is filled with either air or gas and functions as an insulating block which prevents escape of heat. Triple-glazed windows have three panes of glass, each separated from the other by an air- or gas-filled space, and they often provide better insulation than their double-glazed counterparts.

Top benefits of retrofit windows

In addition to keeping the house warm and reducing electricity bills, this retrofit also entail a lower carbon footprint than the traditional option, which it more earth-friendly, we learn from Melbourne-based retailers of double glazed windows. Other known benefits include fewer draughts, lower external noise levels and minimal condensation. On top of that, double- and triple-glazed windows are very durable and can last up to 20 years, which translates as higher long-term savings.

Retrofit glass and gap filling options

When choosing energy-efficient windows, pay attention to BFRC ratings, and if possible, opt for low-emissivity panes internally coated by metal oxide to minimize loss of heat while ensuring ample sunlight. Other features to keep an eye out on when shopping for new windows include use of internal gasses (such as argon, krypton or xenon) and pane spacers known as warm edges which should contain little or no metal for maximum heat loss prevention.

Window frame types used in earth-friendly windows

Energy-efficient windows are available in four main frame types, i.e. uPVC, wood, composite and aluminum/steel framing. While uPVC and aluminum/steel frames are recyclable, slenderenergy efficient replacement windows and provide a lengthy lifespan, wooden frames entail minimal environmental impact but they also require proper maintenance. Composite framing, on the other hand, requires less maintenance and is extremely weatherproof thanks to its internal timber structure with plastic or aluminum coating.

ABC of energy and U-value ratings

Most double- and triple-glazed windows are rated according to their energy efficiency. The energy performance scale devised by the British Fenestration Rating Council runs from A to G, A-rated windows boasting highest heat retention. In addition to the window energy rating, you should also check the U-values shown on the label and pick the panes with lowest U-values as they entail minimal heat loss and improved insulation features.

Ventilation aspects of earth-friendly windows

Retrofit windows are air-tighter than standard panes, so you should strive to keep your home properly aired to prevent condensation buildup. If your house is lacking in adequate ventilation features, consider either regularly airing the rooms or choosing windows with trickle frame vents. If condensation continues to build up despite your best efforts, your household may be suffering from a damp problem which you will need to tackle on your own or hire experts to fix it for you.

Winter is just around the corner, but days of warmth and comfort are not gone. With the right set of windows, you home will stay cozy and well-heated even with blizzards  raging outside – so go ahead and replace your panes with retrofit glazing while the weather still allows it.

 

4 Window Types to Match Your Personal Aesthetic

Modern dining room with wide windows and spiral staircase.
The windows are essentially the eyes of your home. They serve an extremely important function but can also have a dramatic effect on enhancing the outward appearance if you choose the appropriate style and the right dressings. When you are planning on installing new replacement windows, you need to consider efficiency, cost, your home’s architecture and also your personal aesthetic. While the standard window does serve its purpose, here are four different types that will say a lot about your taste.

The Bay Window for the Artist at Heart

Home improvement window replacementThe bay window is highly sought after because it has such an artistic effect. Originating from the German word meaning ‘the ledge in the wall’, it contributes to the home’s exterior appeal while giving homeowners a unique panoramic view of their surroundings from inside their living space. Generally, bay windows have three openings that vary in sizes. The center ‘picture’ window is unobstructed and the surrounding windows on either side are smaller set a mood and will become a real focus in the design of your home interior.

The Bow Window for Another Kind of Beautiful

A bow window is another type of window that acts as a focal point inside of the home and transforms the exterior as well. While bow windows may appear to be bay windows at first glance, they are actually designed for homeowners who want an open space that feels fresh and open. Bow windows have a semi-circular outer structure that is best suited for homes that need more natural light and that have more room for additional panes. They are also unique in the sense that they can wrap around the corner of a home, so you can have views from two different angles.

The Wood Window for a Practical and Classical Design

The wood window is a beautiful and long-lasting option for homeowners who want a classical design and who want to benefit from the practicality of the material. With a variety of wood choices that range from pine and oak to mahogany and maple, the color and finishes that you choose can compliment any type of space that you would like to look timeless, inviting and charming.

Casement Windows for Clean Lines and Function

If you want a more modern appearance where the space is designed solely on clean lines, casement windows from companies like Five Star Windows Inc. are a great accent that will let home improvement new windowsnatural light in. In addition to allowing homeowners to compliment the sleek lines in their interior design, the window will allow more air to blow through the home while they are open and provide a more open view of nature.

Everyone has their own personal aesthetic. You may like a refined and modern look or a classical application that will never go out of style. Be sure to compare several styles and only then can you decide on a replacement window and a professional installer.

Guest Post By:

Anica Oaks

Freelance writer and web enthusiast
Read some of my published work on my Google+ page.

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