Key Insights for Upgrading Your Home Windows

Your house can’t directly communicate when it needs maintenance, but signs like aging or damage can indicate the need for window replacement. Proper upkeep and selecting quality windows can extend their lifespan to over twenty years. Various factors influence window longevity, such as environmental conditions.

Indicators that signal it’s time for new windows

Knowing when to replace your windows is crucial. Here are the top five signs:

Damaged, warped, or broken windows - If repairs are insufficient and issues persist, replacement is the best choice. Small problems like hardware failures or weather stripping repairs might be manageable, but significant damage calls for new units. Signs such as cloudiness, drafts, difficulty opening or sticking windows suggest the need for replacement.

Seeking lower energy costs

Drafty, inefficient windows can raise energy bills by up to 25%. Upgrading to energy-efficient models with features like insulating glass can reduce heating and cooling expenses. Clarify your needs to choose suitable windows for your climate and budget.

Enhancing your home's aesthetics

Worn-out windows can diminish your home's visual appeal. Consider replacing faded, warped, or outdated windows with durable options that match your home’s style. Changing window types, such as switching from fixed to operable windows or enlarging for more natural light, can also boost both form and function.

Post-storm window durability

Coastal areas experiencing storms or harsh weather necessitate sturdy windows like those made from Ultrex® fiberglass, resistant to corrosion and extreme conditions. These low-maintenance windows feature a thick finish that withstands peeling or cracking, protecting your home from future storms.

Restoring a historic property

For historic homes, replacing windows can preserve or enhance architectural charm. Choose style and materials that complement the period while ensuring robustness and energy efficiency.

How to accurately measure for window replacement

Precise measurements are vital. Take three width measurements between jambs—bottom, middle, and top—and select the smallest. For height, measure from the highest sill point to the top of the opening at three points, again choosing the smallest. Depth should account for a minimum of 3¼ inches to fit the new window, excluding hardware and pulleys. When ordering, deduct ¼ inch from width and height measurements, and use these to get precise dimensions.

Guide to choosing windows

Consider two main options: insert windows and full-frame replacements. Inserts fit into existing frames and are easier to install, suitable if frames are solid. Full-frame replacements involve removing old frames and installing new ones, ideal for deteriorating structures or aesthetic updates.

Frame material choices

The material affects durability and maintenance. Common options include:

Vinyl - Cost-effective, impact-resistant, easy maintenance, and resistant to rotting and fading.

Aluminum - Lightweight, durable, corrosion-resistant, and budget-friendly.

Wood - Offers excellent insulation, with options for primed or pre-painted finishes, suited for interior or classic styles.

Clad-wood - Combines wood’s interior beauty with a durable, low-maintenance exterior similar to aluminum, ideal for modern homes.

Fiberglass - Waterproof, highly durable, resistant to warping, cracking, and corroding, with excellent thermal stability and low expansion rates.

Additional factors to consider

Think about window style and construction quality. Sticking to existing designs can be simpler, but upgrading styles like bay or casement windows can modernize your home. Ensure the windows are properly constructed—fusion-welded frames and UV-protective glazing offer durability and better energy performance.