If your house is old, window replacement will not only improve its appearance but also increase energy efficiency. Learn about the different options to decide which one is right for you.

Before installing the new window, loosen one 2-inch screw through the upper side jamb. This will hold the window while you shim it until it is plumb and square. Contact Window Replacement Waukesha for professional help.

Window replacement raises home value, elevates curb appeal and makes a house more energy efficient. The total cost of a new window installation depends on the type of window you select, the style, frame material and labor costs. Window contractors offer a variety of pricing options to accommodate homeowner budgets. Getting multiple quotes will help homeowners compare prices and find the best deal.

Homeowners can choose from pocket, full-frame and new construction windows. A full-frame replacement is recommended when the existing window frame is rotted or damaged beyond repair, and it’s the most expensive option. A pocket window replaces the existing sashes and operating hardware but leaves the frame in place, saving on installation costs. New-construction windows have fins on the exterior and are nailed to the house, which helps with insulation and structural integrity.

The frame material plays a significant role in the price of a new window. Aluminum, vinyl and fiberglass are the most affordable options while wood and composite come with a higher price tag.

Whether you go with single- or double-hung windows will also affect your project’s cost. These types differ by how the lower sash slides upward, allowing air to circulate when the house gets too hot or cold.

Many homeowners want to install energy-efficient windows for their homes, but the best way to save money on heating and cooling bills is to improve insulation and sealing around doors, attic hatches, recessed lighting fixtures, fireplaces and more, rather than replacing windows alone. Windows typically make up only a small percentage of the total wall area, so installing new windows will not provide dramatic savings on energy bills.

It’s important to hire professionals for the installation of any window system, as improper installation could result in moisture infiltration, leaking and broken windows, or worse. Attempting to do a DIY installation can also be costly, as most manufacturer warranties require professional installation. In addition, DIY installation can lead to faulty window operation and a poor seal, increasing the need for repairs down the road. If you decide to go with a do-it-yourself installation, be sure to purchase high-quality windows and carefully measure each window before purchasing materials.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficient windows help reduce heating and cooling costs, as well as fading of interior surfaces and contents from exposure to sunlight. They also add value to your home and contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing the amount of energy used in homes. Some window companies and retailers make the claim that you can recoup the cost of your new windows through energy savings alone, but this is not entirely true. It depends on the type of windows you choose and other factors like your home’s age and location.

To increase the efficiency of your windows, look for a dual or triple pane with a small gap between the layers that creates a barrier to heat flow. This is known as an insulated window. These windows may also have a coating that helps reduce the transfer of heat through conduction. In addition, the frames can be made of different materials that affect a window’s energy efficiency. For example, aluminum frames conduct heat and cold more readily than vinyl or fiberglass frames do.

While these features may increase the initial cost of your new windows, they will save you money over time. Some window companies even offer ENERGY STAR rebates to offset the cost of your new windows. If you’re not sure what to look for, visit the NFRC website to learn more about how to read energy performance ratings and find the best windows for your needs.

You may also want to consider a full frame replacement rather than replacing only the sashes (the framed glass). This process involves removing the old windows, and re-building the outer casing. This offers you more flexibility in the style and size of your new windows. For example, you could replace a single-hung window with an easy to open awning window over the sink or you might be able to install a sliding door where there was once a window.

Whether or not your new windows are worth it really comes down to the type of windows you have now and what your goals for your home improvement project are. If you have single-pane windows with warped wood frames, replacing them with a double or triple-pane ENERGY STAR rated window should dramatically decrease your energy consumption. However, if you’re looking to minimize your heating bills in the winter and prevent overheating in the summertime due to solar rays, you can improve your energy efficiency by making other upgrades, like sealing leaky areas around pipes and ducts and adding insulating between the joists in an unfinished attic.

Style

If your old windows are leaking, damaged or no longer function properly, it’s time to upgrade them. The good news is you can choose from a wide range of window styles that blend aesthetics and functionality. Some of the most popular types of replacement windows include double hung, single hung, casement, awning, bay and bow windows.

Double hung windows are popular due to their classic appeal and ample ventilation. The lower and upper sash both open and close, which allows cool air to enter the home while letting warm air escape. In addition, they tilt out for easy cleaning. Double hung windows are available in a wide variety of sizes and materials to complement any home style.

Single hung windows are a more traditional style that’s also effective at promoting ventilation. They operate by moving the bottom window panel over the stationary upper sash. These windows are ideal for homes with young children because the upper sash cannot open.

Casement and awning windows feature a hand crank that opens them with ease. These types of windows work best in climates with rainy or windy weather. They’re also great for promoting air flow and light in spaces with limited access, like recessed walls or vaulted ceilings.

Bay and bow windows are a fantastic choice for bringing natural light into a space. They consist of three or more windows joined together at an angle to jut out beyond your wall. They can transform a dull room into a spacious, bright space with stunning views and plenty of storage.

If you’re unsure of which type of window will best suit your needs, consult with a professional window expert. They can provide detailed information on each window type, including a brief description of the pros and cons associated with each. They can also help you determine whether a new-construction or replacement window installation will be the best option for your home.

Installation

Window replacement helps to boost your home’s energy efficiency and can help you save hundreds each year on your utility bills. However, it’s important that the process is done correctly to ensure your windows perform well and don’t cause air leaks or other problems. When you have a professional company handle the job, they will make sure that the new windows are properly installed and sealed. They will also inspect the area for any signs of leaking or weather damage that may require repairs.

The first step is to remove the existing window sashes and frames. Your contractor will carefully do this, taking care not to damage the surrounding wall or frame. They will also remove any curtains or blinds that are located in the window openings. Then, they will clean the area and remove any debris. This includes any paint chips that have fallen from the sash or frame. This is because any lead paint present will need to be removed and replaced with a non-toxic product that meets lead-free requirements.

Depending on the type of window replacement you’re having installed, the installers will either install a new frame or insert the new window into the existing frame. If you’re having a full frame window replacement, the existing exterior and interior trim and framing will be removed and replaced with new wood. This option is more time-consuming but it’s a good choice if you want your window replacement to have the appearance of being new construction.

When installing a replacement window, the contractor will carefully measure the space to ensure the new window is the correct size. They will also re-caulk and re-seal the area to prevent water from entering your home. Lastly, they will install new storm windows to protect your window from rain and snow.

When the window installation is complete, the contractors will do a walk-through with you to go over any questions or concerns. They will also give you a copy of the window warranty and walk you through how to use your new windows. You should also be provided with any other materials needed for maintenance such as paint, caulking or weather stripping.