Window replacement can be a big investment, but it’s worth it for the energy savings alone. Old windows can let cold air in and strain your home’s heating and cooling systems.
To ensure your new windows fit properly, contractors take accurate measurements of the window opening at three points: width, height, and depth. Then they prepare the rough window opening for installation. Visit Website to learn more.
The glass in your windows serves not only a visual purpose, but helps to keep your property safe and secure from outside elements. It also performs as an insulator by maintaining interior temperatures and blocking outside noise. This is why it’s important to make sure that your windows are in good condition and free of damage. Even small cracks or chips can hurt the performance of a window, increasing energy costs and making it less effective at protecting your home from the elements.
It’s also worth ensuring that the glass you choose meets your energy efficiency needs. This includes selecting a glass option that is properly insulated and has Low-E coatings and an effective sealant. It’s a good idea to avoid buying single-pane windows as these offer limited insulation, but also look for double and triple pane insulated glass units that have a high insulating rating.
Other factors to consider include identifying the type of glass and knowing how it will be secured in place. Standard annealed glass breaks into large, jagged shards and presents a higher risk of cuts and injury than tempered glass that is four times stronger and resists impact and thermal stress. Laminated glass sandwiches a plastic interlayer between two annealed panes and offers added strength, UV protection, and sound insulation.
It’s also helpful to find out who makes the glass for your replacement windows. The quality of the glass can have a big impact on your energy bills, so it’s best to choose a supplier that uses high-quality glass and has a long history of producing durable and reliable products. A good supplier will provide you with information about the manufacturer, including reviews from real homeowners and how the window is rated for energy efficiency.
Frame
The frame, or casing, is the part of a window that holds its glass panes. It contains window head, jambs and sill. It also provides a rough opening for the window sash. Window frames are often made of wood. As such, they need to be inspected for damage and rot before the replacement process is started.
A full window replacement removes the existing frame, trim and casing and then replaces it with a new one. This allows homeowners to choose wider and taller windows while ensuring better design and energy efficiency. It is also a great option for homes with rotting or damaged frames that may not be able to support a new window.
During the removal of the existing frame, it is important to look for signs of mold, mildew and dry rot that can affect the performance of a new window. It is also a good opportunity to replace old caulk and sealant.
The installation process for a full window replacement can be messy and disruptive. Homeowners should prepare for dust, dirt and debris during the process. It is also a good idea to have some patience as this type of work can take a while.
The pocket window replacement method is less invasive than the full frame replacement option. This is a good choice for homeowners who wish to preserve the original frame and woodwork of their home. It is also a practical choice if the existing frame is square and level with no signs of rot or water damage. The window frame must also be able to support the weight of a new window in order to qualify for a pocket install.
Sash
The sash is the interior component that holds window panes in place, allowing them to move up and down and open. The sash can be made of wood, metal, or composite materials. It includes stiles, rails, and hardware to keep it sturdy and secure. It also includes a hinge to allow the sash to pivot and move when opened. It may also have muntins, which are strips of wood or other material that divide the glass into smaller panes. It may also have an inert gas fill or other treatment to improve energy efficiency.
If the sash is damaged, it can cause drafts and water leaks in your home. Visible damage, rotting, or mold growth on the sash are clear signs that it needs to be replaced. It may also be difficult to open and close the window, or it could feel stuck or jammed in its frame. On older windows, the sash may promote sweating and condensation, leading to rot or rust of the window frame around it.
Depending on the type of window and its age, you may need to replace only the sash or the entire window frame. Our professionals can help you determine whether a sash replacement or full window replacement is the best solution.
Weatherstripping
While it’s often overlooked, weather stripping is one of the most important parts of a window or door. It seals out the elements, saves energy, reduces drafts and makes your home more comfortable. It also helps prevent condensation and mold. The easiest way to check if your windows have enough weather stripping is to do a draft test on a windy day. Place your hand around the edge of a window frame to feel for cool air coming in through the gap. If you feel a draft, it may mean the current weather stripping is worn and needs to be replaced.
The material and quality of the weather stripping also affects how long it lasts. Felt and foams tend to wear down faster than vinyls or metals. Also, location and use can have a huge impact on how often you’ll need to replace it.
Whether you’re installing new weather stripping or replacing it, start by cleaning the area thoroughly with mild detergent and water. Then scrub it and wipe down the surfaces to make sure they’re free of dirt, grease and other debris. Remove old adhesive, if needed, using glue-and-adhesive remover, and then fill and sand any nail holes to prepare for the new weather stripping.
Once the surface is clean, it’s time to decide on what type of weather stripping you want to install. Popular choices include:
Insulation
Whether your windows are old or new, if they’re not properly insulated, they can let cold air into your home and cause high heating bills. Window insulation is easy to install and can save you money over the years.
A new replacement window is an excellent opportunity to add insulation, particularly if the existing frame or sash are damaged or worn. Insulation reduces heat transfer, helping your home stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer. And, as an added benefit, the savings on energy costs can offset the cost of the insulation upgrades.
When insulating your existing window, it’s important to be cautious and take steps to protect the surrounding wall and frame from damage. The first step is to remove the sash and panels by locating the sash locks (small levers or buttons) and releasing them. Then, gently lift the sash out of the opening. After removing the sash, it’s a good idea to remove any old caulk and weather stripping from around the rough opening.
Spray foam is a popular choice for insulating replacement windows because it quickly fills gaps and creates an air seal around the window. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using spray foam and to allow adequate time for the insulation to cure before moving on to another step.
Another option is to use a foam tape window insulation kit, which includes adhesive-backed polyurethane foam and a roll of masking tape. The adhesive-backed foam is applied to the interior side of the window frames and, if necessary, the top and bottom of the sashes. When the tape is stretched and compressed, it forms an airtight seal that prevents drafts and helps to save on energy costs.
