Davida Oxendine ha scritto 3 mesi fa
When it’s Time for Window Replacement
It’s time to replace window pane your windows if they are no longer able to protect your home from the elements, reduce noise, or improve its design. What should you do?
There are a myriad of factors to think about. We’ll break them down to help you choose the right style, energy consumption and labeling installation, and cost.
Energy Efficiency
Energy savings is one of the main reasons why homeowners invest in new windows. In reality, replacing old drafty windows can reduce cooling and heating costs by up to 20 percent. Some people are disappointed to discover that their savings in energy do not pay for the initial cost of new windows for a long period of time.
Window performance and operation should be the primary consideration for any homeowner considering window replacement. A window that isn’t functioning properly could increase the cost of maintenance, energy bills, and also the risk of air infiltration or leaks. For example windows that aren’t able to move up and down or slide from side to side correctly may require replacement because the frames have swollen or warped because of excessive moisture from condensation or lack of sealing.
Mold or mildew on the inside and outside of the frame is a further sign that it’s a good time to replace your windows. This is typically a sign of a failed seal or damaged weather stripping. The resultant mildew and mold from these issues may create health and safety issues for your family members if they are not addressed immediately.
New replacement windows will increase the security of your home, curb appeal, and potential resale value. These advantages are enhanced when the windows that are used in renovations are energy efficient, as specified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).
The U-factor is used to determine the energy efficiency of windows. The lower the U factor, the higher the insulating power of the window. A U-factor less than 0.26 is an ideal rule of thumb. Frame design and material are crucial factors to take into consideration for energy efficiency. Vinyl is a strong low-maintenance alternative, but can expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, replacement windows leading to leaks. Wood offers an elegant appearance and superior insulation but requires regular maintenance; aluminum is a lightweight material that is easy to maintain, however it is extremely heat-conductive and is not a good insulator.
To get the most benefit from their new windows, homeowners must hire an experienced contractor to install them. A professional can help you select the appropriate windows for your home’s style and zone, and provide information regarding resales value and homeowner satisfaction.
Style
New windows always add value to a home. It isn’t easy to look through all the different kinds, styles and configurations that are available. The decision isn’t just about style or function -selecting the wrong windows can affect a home’s selling value.
Window contractors employ different ways to replace frames with energy-efficient ones, according to their state of repair. One of them is a pocket replacement, in which contractors take off the frame’s exterior, but leaves the interior trim and sashes. Another option, which is often recommended for older homes or in historic areas with strict requirements for grills or replacement windows sash packs, is to use a sash pack replacement. These are standard kits that come with jamb liners made of wood or aluminum, and replacement sash on both the upper and lower halves.
Another option is to install full-frame replacement windows. These require removing the entire existing frame and the sash. This is typically recommended when the windows are so damaged that they’re beyond repair. Full-frame installations are also recommended for homeowners who wish to change the type of window, for example by replacing double-hungs with sliders or cases.
Search for replacement windows that bear the NFRC label. The label identifies the energy-efficiency rating of the window. The higher the rating is, the more efficient the window.
Take out the stops that keep your window in place before installing the new one. Be careful when working around the sill of the existing frame to make sure you don’t damage the wood. If needed, shim it. When the new window is set, shim the top and bottom edges to ensure a snug fit and add caulk around the outside edge to seal it.
Fill any gaps that are greater than 0.64 cm (0.24 in) with a backing rod made of foam-rubber. This is a far better choice than caulk, which can trap moisture and cause mold and wood rot. If your gaps are wider then you can add furring strips that measure 1 inch (2.5cm) to the existing frame. This will increase the height.
Budget
Window replacement is a major investment but the energy efficiency and increased home comfort it provides makes it worth the initial investment. It also increases the value of your home and reduce utility bills. Before you begin your project, you need to make a budget that will guide your spending choices. To help you decide on the amount, think about your household’s energy consumption and the style of windows you want to install. A reputable window contractor will give you an insight into the costs outside your personal goals and make suggestions to minimize them.
The material of the window frame is an important element in determining replacement window costs. Vinyl and aluminum are the least expensive options, while wood, fiberglass and composite frames are more costly. Be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of frame to help you decide which is best for your home. Wood windows, for example, are more durable, offer better insulation, however they require regular maintenance and are prone to water damage. Aluminum and vinyl windows are less expensive but they’re vulnerable to rusting and don’t provide the same amount of insulation as wood.
Your window replacement company may offer different installation methods, which can affect the overall cost. The most labor-intensive is complete frame replacement, in which the entire window is removed and replaced with a brand new unit. This is usually recommended if the frames are damaged or have rotted. It’s also required for renovation projects that have a historical background. Insert windows is a less expensive alternative. During the process, the current sash, operating hardware and exterior trim are removed. However the exterior trim and siding are left intact. A new window unit is then put into the opening and secured and sealed. It is then insulated and anchored.
If you’re doing the work yourself, make sure you take into account the cost of the tools. A tape measure, a shim that is waterproof and caulk gun are all essential. Buy shims of various thicknesses for your window sills, head jambs and other sizes. You’ll also require caulk made of elastomeric to fill in any gaps around the frame and the casing.
Installation
Windows are available in many sizes and shapes to fit the unique design of each home. There are a myriad of options, including windows that are double-hung or single-hung sliding windows, bay bows, casement windows circles, awnings egress, jalousie, and circle windows. These windows are available in a variety of different materials and finishes. Some are also insulated to increase energy efficiency.
Replace your old, inefficient windows with energy-efficient double-hung windows and save money. The process is relatively easy however the results are worth it. You’ll also get the advantages of having a gorgeous new window.
Before installing your new window, take out the screen and sash from the current frame. This will allow for easier manipulation of the frame, and also prevent damage to the materials. After the window is slid into place it’s time to apply caulk on both sides of the frame and around the gap, if any, using the recommended caulk for windows and doors.
You can choose to use cedar or plastic shims, according to your preference and the condition of the frame. This will ensure that the window is placed properly in the opening. Be careful not to over-shim your window since this could cause water condensation inside the frame to build up and cause the frame to degrade.
After the window is set your installer will make sure the frame is level, plumb and caulked thoroughly. You can then put back in any interior trim that was removed to make room for the new window. Paint or stain the new window to match the color scheme of your home. Be sure to seal and insulate the jambs, sills and flange on the outside of your home to further improve the performance of your window.