If your windows are starting to look a bit worn and drafty, it’s time to consider replacing them. New windows do more than brighten up a home—they can also provide improved energy efficiency, increased comfort and heightened curb appeal.
Insert replacement windows install into an existing frame, preserving the original trim and siding. They are available in a wide variety of styles and materials. For more information, visit https://yourhomeexteriors.com/.
Replacing old single-pane windows with Energy Star double-pane windows and new frames can significantly lower monthly energy costs, experts say. That’s because the frames in older windows are often made of aluminum, which is an excellent conductor of hot and cold air. Newer replacement windows use vinyl and fiberglass frames, which are poor conductors of heat and offer superior insulation.
In addition, the Energy Star label on new replacement windows helps homeowners compare models and make the most informed purchase. Consumers can also look for ratings from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to help them find windows with a high level of energy efficiency.
Replacement windows are available in a wide variety of operational styles and shapes to fit almost any space, so homeowners can get just the right look. In addition, a number of custom options are available to enhance the beauty and functionality of any window. These include upgrading handles and locks, incorporating between-the-glass grilles for blinds or shades and adding screens to keep insects out.
There are two types of replacement windows: full-frame and insert. In full-frame replacement, the entire existing frame and trim are removed and replaced with the new window. In insert replacement, the new window is fitted into the existing frame opening, keeping the interior and exterior trim intact.
Regardless of the type of replacement windows you choose, it is important that they are installed properly to realize the benefits. Professional installation is typically recommended, although some homeowners are able to install their replacement windows themselves with the proper tools and materials. A power drill, pry bar, utility knife, putty knife, hammer and scraper are the main items you’ll need for the job, along with caulk, duct tape and primer.
The best replacement windows will be designed to fit into your existing window opening and will work well with the style of your home. In most cases, you can expect to see lower monthly energy bills, improved comfort and a more attractive exterior appearance. If you’re ready to make the switch, schedule a consultation with a local installer and begin shopping for the perfect windows for your home.
Better Comfort
When it comes to home improvement projects, homeowners typically have two questions: “What am I trying to improve,” and “Is the cost worth it?” With replacement windows, these inquiries can be answered with a resounding yes.
Modern replacement windows are packed with cutting-edge features that serve the homeowner and their family better than traditional windows ever could. These features aren’t gimmicks or luxury options, either. Rather, the best new windows deliver significant advantages at every point of the window’s lifespan.
The first way these features benefit the homeowner is with improved comfort. The new windows create a tight seal that prevents air leakage. This allows climate-controlled air to remain in the home and keeps the indoor temperature consistent, reducing utility costs.
New windows are also designed to reduce the amount of outdoor noise that enters the house. This helps the occupants relax and unwind at home, as well as sleep peacefully during the night.
Finally, new replacement windows are easier to open and close than older windows. Older windows may become hard to open or even get stuck in the open position, which is a safety concern. These problems aren’t present with replacement windows, which are easier to open, close, and clean.
Another way these windows help with comfort is by lowering humidity levels in the home. High humidity can cause the air to feel stale, sticky, and uncomfortable. New replacement windows keep the humidity levels in the home at a comfortable level, helping occupants stay healthy and comfortable.
Replacement windows are available in a wide range of styles, making it easy for the homeowner to find one that suits the house and its décor. The style choices include double-hung, casement, slider, awning, bay, and bow windows. In addition, the best replacement windows come in a variety of colors and finishes, which adds to the visual appeal of the home.
Improved Appearance
One of the main reasons homeowners seek replacement windows is to add value and curb appeal to their homes. Newer windows are not only more energy-efficient and comfortable, but they also come in a variety of styles to complement any home’s architecture.
Newer replacement windows also typically have double or triple panes filled with argon gas for added UV protection. This helps to prevent fading of your walls, furniture and carpeting. If you are looking to sell your home, replacing old windows with more efficient ones can help increase its resale value.
Another benefit to consider is the reduced maintenance needed for your windows. A quality set of replacement windows will no longer need storm windows, and they are much easier to clean than older wood windows that may have been painted over many times throughout the years.
In addition, newer replacement windows often have tilt-in features that allow them to be easily washed from inside your home. This can save you the hassle and expense of hiring a professional window washer.
If your current windows are extremely leaky or you notice rot around the frames, it is probably time to replace them. Left unchecked, rotting wood can spread and cause structural damage to your house. This can also lead to mold and mildew problems.
Replacement windows are available in a variety of styles and opening options, including double-hung, casement, sliding, awning, bay, bow and bay/bow combinations. You can also choose from different trim finishes, window shapes and glazing options to create a look that is unique to your property. In addition, you can choose from a wide range of colors to match your existing building materials.
Noise Reduction
In addition to making your home energy efficient, replacement windows are also highly effective at reducing outside noise. The combination of insulation and double panes create a barrier that blocks out sound transmission, making your house a quiet retreat. This is especially beneficial for homeowners who live near highways, train tracks, airports, or other noisy areas. You can finally get a good night’s sleep without the annoying noise of garbage trucks or street traffic keeping you awake!
New construction windows are the best option for reducing outside noise because they attach to the studs in your wall, creating a solid seal around the window. They can be installed on both existing homes and new construction projects, and they can be custom sized to fit the specific space.
If your existing windows need to be replaced, you may want to consider insert replacements, which fit into the current window opening. This option doesn’t require any major alterations to your walls, trim, or siding, which is important for people who have carefully curated their exterior design.
Another way to reduce outside noise is by replacing old caulking and weather stripping. These small improvements can help to keep outside noise out, and they’re relatively inexpensive. It’s worth mentioning that, even with these improvements, it is possible that outside noise will still enter your home through air gaps in the frames or between the glass.
If you live near a busy road, noisy school, or a concert venue, replacing your windows is the best way to reduce outside noise. Compared to single-pane windows, double-pane windows are significantly more effective at blocking out outside noise, and the extra insulation helps prevent heat transfer as well. The insulated glass and airtight frames create an effective sound barrier, which is further reduced by the argon gas fills and low-E coatings. These energy-efficient features are also a great investment for boosting your home’s resale value!