Top Window Replacement Tips for Homeowners

If you’re looking to enhance the aesthetics of your home, you might look into replacing your windows. Whether you’re based in Wisconsin or the West Midlands, windows and doors play a huge role in your home’s curb appeal. What’s more, they’re crucial facets of your property’s energy efficiency. Therefore, if you find yourself dealing with drafty old windows, don’t delay in upgrading. To that end, detailed below are just some of the top tips for embarking on a window replacement project.

Assess Your Needs

Before you throw yourself into the process of replacing your windows, you should always assess your needs. You need to determine what you’re looking to change about your windows. For instance, are they old and inefficient? Do they let in drafts or moisture? Are you keen to improve your home’s curb appeal? If you understand your goals, you’ll be able to make more informed decisions all around.

Choose the Right Type of Windows

There are multiple types of windows out there, each of which has its own set of benefits. Some of the most popular options include the following:

• Double-hung windows – These windows have two sashes that move up and down, resulting in great ventilation and easy cleaning.
• Casement windows – These windows open outward with a crank, as they’re hinged on one side. As a result, they promise unobstructed views and good ventilation.
• Sliding windows – These windows slide horizontally and are ideal for rooms with limited space.
• Bay and bow windows – These protruding windows bring touch and elegance into your space.

Focus on Energy Efficiency

With the help of energy-efficient windows, you can significantly reduce your heating and cooling costs. You should look out for windows with the ENERGY STAR® label, as this indicates that they meet very strict energy efficiency guidelines. Key features to consider include the following:

• Low E-glass – This glass has a special coating that both reflects heat and allows light to pass, meaning it keeps your home cooler in summer and warmer in the winter.
• Double or triple glazing – When windows have two or three panes of glass, this results in better insulation than single-pane windows.
• Gas fills – Some windows contain argon or krypton gas between the panes for better insulation.
• Proper seals – Windows need high-quality seals to prevent air leakage.

Set a Realistic Budget

The cost of window replacement can quickly get out of control if you don’t have a realistic budget in place. Prices can be affected by the type of windows, materials, and installation costs. Therefore, it’s a good idea to get quotes from multiple contractors and compare them. Although it’s always tempting to go for the cheapest option, you always need to ask yourself why something would be so cheap. In fact, when it comes to windows, you might want to go for the higher price bracket, as more expensive options are less likely to require frequent replacement.

Hire a Professional Installer

If you’re particularly handy, you might be confident that you can switch out your windows yourself. Despite this, you should hire a professional to install your windows. This is because a professional will ensure that your windows are airtight and will perform as expected. Similarly, they’ll have the expertise and tools to handle the job in the safest and most efficient manner. When looking for a professional, make sure you check their credentials, read their reviews, and ask for references from others.

Ultimately, replacing your windows is far from a small task. Make sure you consider everything in depth before you embark on a complete replacement project throughout your home.