If you are a homeowner, at some point or another you must get replacement windows. Yes, these are often an investment into your home, but the benefits largely bring a return on that investment. Here are the top 5 things to know before you replace windows:
1. You Might Not Need to Replace Them
Sometimes, you might think that a replacement is in order, but in reality, you only need a repair.
In this case, your windows might last for several more years.
However, if you might only get one or two more years of use following a repair, it’s probably best to fully replace them.
2. Read the Warranty(s)
Too many people get excited about a window replacement, yet they don’t even bother reading the warranty. Though the manufacturer always has a warranty, each has different points, lengths, and coverages. In addition, the installer often has some type of warranty, too, which is usually different than the manufacturer warranty.
3. Replacing Windows is Not a DIY Project
You might think it’s easy to replace windows, right? Pop one out and put the other one in? It’s not quite that simple. So, it is in your best interest to hire a professional window installation company to make sure that your windows are installed perfectly. Trying to install them on your own is likely going to cost more because most homeowners make mistakes that the pros charge a lot to fix.
4. Single/ Double Hung vs Single/ Double Pane
Most manufacturers have both double and single-pane windows and double and single hung windows.
What does this mean? Let’s look at panes, first.
A single pane is exactly what it sounds like: a single piece, or pane, of glass.
From that, you can deduce that double pane windows are two panes of glass. The panes are separated by gas, which makes them extremely energy efficient. Single pane windows are less energy efficient.
Double-hung and single-hung windows are a bit different. Both double hung and single hung windows can be opened from one side, but double-hung windows can be opened from both sides. There are pros and cons of both, of course, and it’s something to think about before purchasing windows.
5. Consider Your Frame and Glass Options
You might not realize it if you never bought replacement windows before, but there are different types of frames and glass options out there. For frames, you generally have your choice of vinyl, wood, aluminum, and fiberglass. For glass, it usually comes down to the gas used between the panes, including argon, krypton, and low-E, which is a low-emission gas.
With the top 5 things to know before you replace windows, you are well-informed about the basics of the window replacement process.
How To Save Money During Your Window Replacement
Window replacement is an investment for any homeowner.
The average cost of window replacements can vary based on many factors.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t save some money in the process.
There are several ways steps anyone who’s in the market for some window replacement can take to maximize your budget. Here’s how to save money with new window replacement:
Look to Your Energy Savings
Yes, it is possible to save a lot of money in energy savings after a window replacement. Actually, this is why most people choose to replace the windows in their homes. Most households can save anywhere from 10% to 25% on their heating or air conditioning bills. This is, of course, after putting in replacement windows. Over time, that really adds up.
Consider the Window Type
Another thing that can help you to save money when replacing the windows is the type of window. Fixed windows, those that you cannot open, are less expensive than operable windows. These are the windows that open. Though fixed windows are more affordable, you should make sure to add a couple of operable windows into the home, too. This way, you also get a breeze coming through.
Think About the Resale Value
If you are considering selling your home, you can save money with a window replacement by thinking about resale value. Potential buyers really like the idea of buying a home with new windows. They are willing to pay for those windows, too. Keep in mind that you can’t simply choose the cheapest replacement windows out there and expect to get a great return on your investment. Instead, remember that you have to install windows that are high quality to get the investment back.
Take Window Size Into Account
Installing fewer large windows into the home is often cheaper than installing more smaller windows.
Surprising, right? So, if you are planning on a wall of windows, such as in a sunroom, choose panes that are large instead of small.
This way, you can see a more attractive price point.
Skip the Mullions
You should also skip the fancy mullions when buying windows if you want to save money. As you might know, mullions are the bars between panes of glass in windows. However, mullions are manufactured, and the manufacturing process costs money. So, that cost is passed along to the consumer. Thus, you can save money by choosing windows without mullions.
These are only a few of the ways that you can save money when you get a new window replacement. To learn more about how to save money with a new window replacement, talk to your local window installation company.