New windows help reduce energy costs, block out excessive street noise, and offer many other advantages. They can also enhance your home’s curb appeal and add to its overall value.
Foggy windows can be caused by condensation between the glass. This is a sign that the seal has failed, leaving your window vulnerable to moisture and heat loss. For professional help, contact Replacement Windows Sharon now!
A new window’s ability to prevent drafts, reduce moisture in the home and cut energy costs is a big selling point for a homeowner. In fact, if you choose top-performing energy-efficient windows, you may be able to get a return on your investment when it comes time to sell your home.
Energy-efficient replacement windows minimize heat transfer from the interior to exterior and vice versa, reducing energy consumption. They also help to keep your home cool, comfortable and dry. Additionally, many energy-efficient windows provide sound insulation and block harmful UV rays that can cause your furniture or carpeting to fade over time.
If you want to maximize the benefits of your replacement windows, select windows with wood or fiberglass frames rather than aluminum. Aluminum is a good conductor of heat and can cause your new windows to lose energy efficiency over time. Wood and fiberglass are poor conductors of heat, allowing your windows to retain their insulating properties longer.
Today’s replacement windows come with a variety of options for color, hardware finishes and styles. This means you can find the right aesthetic to match your style and complement your home’s architecture. This is important when it comes to resale, as potential buyers will want the look of your home to remain consistent.
Energy efficient features that are included with some replacement windows include double- or triple-pane glass with argon gas and low-e coatings. The low-e coating reflects various solar waves, including long-wave infrared energy (or heat) to help keep your home more comfortable. Combined with premium insulation and double or triple-pane windows, these features can significantly increase your home’s energy efficiency.
In general, double hung and casement windows are more energy efficient than sliders. Double hung windows open and close more easily, while sliding doors have multiple joints that can allow air to leak in. Casements, on the other hand, have a tight seal and can be opened and closed with a crank handle.
Curb Appeal
New windows give your home a fresh, polished look. They’ll help to keep cold air out during the winter and cool air in during the summer while also reducing your energy costs. And the right frames and trim can align with your architectural style for a cohesive aesthetic that boosts curb appeal.
Choosing the right frame material for your replacement windows is an important decision that will impact how your home looks from the street. Composite frames, for example, offer a classic appearance but are highly durable and low maintenance. Wood frames, on the other hand, are available in a wide variety of species and finishes for a custom-looking window.
You can also use your replacement windows to complement other aspects of your property’s exterior, such as the front door, awnings, or walkways. A well-placed plant or flower can add a splash of color that will catch the eye of passersby. In addition, adding a welcome sign or a doormat will make your home feel more inviting and increase the overall curb appeal of your building.
As a general rule, symmetry is more pleasing to the eye than asymmetry. That’s why it’s often a good idea to replace your windows with similar varieties to maintain a symmetrical look to your exterior. Likewise, you may want to consider bay windows or other specialty varieties that will give your building a unique and attractive design.
Changing the size, shape, and quantity of your windows can make a big difference when it comes to curb appeal. For example, if your current windows are small and poorly-positioned, you might want to consider replacing them with larger versions that will open up more of the wall space and create a focal point.
Another easy way to improve your home’s curb appeal is by painting your window trim and frames. You’ll be able to match your existing siding or choose a completely different color that will make your home stand out from the rest. The options are endless, and the results can be spectacular.
Low Maintenance
Many older windows require a great deal of maintenance to keep clean and functioning properly. This can be in the form of regular cleaning to remove dirt and grime, repairing damage or replacing components that have worn out over time. Windows that don’t function at their best can increase energy bills, reduce comfort levels and add to the overall cost of homeownership.
Modern replacement windows are designed with low maintenance in mind. Many offer features such as between-the-glass blinds that reduce dusting and sash that tilt in to allow for easy cleaning of hard to reach areas. Some also come with an energy-efficient coating that cuts air infiltration and UV light penetration, cutting down on your energy costs while maintaining optimal functionality.
Today’s replacement windows are available in a wide range of styles, appearances and materials to complement any home. Options like specialty woods, hardware finishes and 19 clad colors let you choose the windows that perfectly suit your lifestyle and taste. This allows you to enjoy the beauty and benefits of your new windows for years to come.
The best way to maintain your replacement windows is to inspect them regularly for signs of wear and tear. This can catch minor problems before they become a major problem and prevent the need for costly repairs. Checking the frames and seals for moisture buildup is particularly important as water damage can cause rot, mold and other problems that need to be addressed promptly.
It’s also a good idea to inspect your windows for proper fit. Older windows can lose their proper fit over time and this can make them drafty or difficult to open or close. Identifying any loose or uneven frames will help you to schedule a window replacement project at the right time to get the most benefit from your investment.
If you’re ready to start enjoying the benefits of your new replacement windows, be sure to speak with a qualified installer about scheduling your project. It’s a good idea to plan ahead, as the pandemic has caused supply-chain issues that may extend the amount of time it takes to receive your custom windows. Typically, you should expect to wait 2 to 3 months from the date of contract signing until your replacement windows are installed.
Easy Installation
When a homeowner installs new windows in their home, they can often choose from many different styles, types and sizes. Whether that is in order to match the look of their other windows or because they have a particular style in mind for their new addition, it’s important that homeowners understand what it is they are getting themselves into when making this type of investment.
The main difference between replacement windows and new construction windows is that new construction windows are installed during the building process and are not meant to replace existing window openings. These windows are typically used in new construction projects or when adding an expansion to your current home. When this is the case, it is important that you have your contractor explain to you what kind of window you will be installing in order for you to make the proper choice.
However, most of the time when a homeowner is looking to upgrade their windows, they will be using replacement windows. These windows are designed to fit into existing window frames and not require the removal of any exterior materials or wall studs. This makes them the best option for homeowners who are looking to add a little something extra to their home without going through any major construction.
One of the biggest benefits of replacement windows is that they are easy to install by a professional and do not require any significant framing work. This means that it is a much less disruptive process than putting in new windows and can usually be completed within a few days. It also doesn’t require any additional insulation or drywall, so it is an extremely cost-effective way to update your home’s appearance and energy efficiency.
As the winter approaches, it is important that you start thinking about how your home’s windows are performing. It is very common for older windows to begin leaking, leaving gaps and allowing ice, water and cold air to seep into your home. This can cause your heating and cooling systems to run longer and can lead to rotting, mildew and mold in the area around your windows. When this happens, replacing them with quality windows is a smart move to protect your home’s investment and keep it in great shape.