Window Replacement

There are many benefits associated with replacing your older windows. Below we highlight some of the top benefits:

1. Aesthetic Appeal – Window replacement is one of the only home improvement projects that increases the beauty of your home both inside and out. So, enjoy increased curb appeal as well as a new aesthetic appeal of your home’s interior.

2. Easier/Less Maintenance – New technology incorporated in today’s replacement windows have reduced the amount of maintenance required as well as increased durability and lifespan. More options are also available that allow you to clean your windows exterior from the inside of your home, meaning you don’t need to get out the ladder to ensure your windows are crystal clear.

3. Increased Comfort – Replacement windows will eliminate any drafts and cold/warm spots in your home. This means there will be a uniform temperature throughout your home. As well, newer windows reduce the amount of exterior noise that is able to penetrate your home, meaning less distractions and disturbance. Both these benefits increase your comfort level within your home.

4. Reduced Energy Costs – High quality replacement windows will help increase your home’s energy efficiency by reducing heat gain/loss. This means that your heating and cooling systems will not need to work as hard to maintain your desired internal temperature in your home. It has been estimated that energy efficient replacement windows can help homeowners reduce their energy consumption by up to 25%.

5. Increased Home Value – Replacing the windows in your home has been shown to positively impact the value of your home. Because of all the benefits mentioned above, a home with new windows is more appealing to potential home buyers, and they are willing to pay a premium to take advantage of these benefits. If you are considering selling your home in the near future, know that replacing your windows will yield a great return on investment.

The top indicator of when you should be replacing your windows is their age. On average windows come with a 20 – 25 year warranty, however there are some window manufacturers that provide warranties as low as 15 years. Age is not the only indicator that you may need to replace your windows. Here are a few of the more common signs that you should be looking into a window replacement for your home:

1. Damaged Windows – Damaged windows pose a safety risk, they are no longer energy efficient and can be an entry point for bugs and rodents. Some damage, like broken glass or cracked frames are easier to spot than other damage, like warped frames. Inspecting your windows annually will help you notice any potential issues and damages.

2. Difficulty Operating – Years of continual use can cause your window frames and tracks to wear out and create divots or grooves. Over time this wear can make regular operation of your window more difficult. Depending on the severity of the wear, your windows may even become stuck open or closed.

3. Condensation Build Up – When the seals of double or triple pane glass begin to fail, they not only lose their efficiency, but air is now able to flow in between the panes of glass, which leads to condensation or fog to form in between your glass. If your windows were gas filed, this gas has also been let out as the window is no longer air tight.

4. Increased Energy Bills – Energy efficient windows help reduce the energy consumption in your home as they reduce heat loss and gain. When windows begin to wear, drafts occur and the seals begin to fail. This means an increase in warm air escaping and entering your home throughout the year. This leads to your heating and cooling system needing to work harder to maintain your ideal internal home temperature, which in turn increases energy consumption. If you notice that your energy bills have increased unexpectedly lately, this can be because your older windows have lost their efficiency.

A skilled DIYer with the right tools can install a replacement window, but just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. The process of replacing windows can be complicated, especially when unexpected issues arise, like when the window opening is no longer square. Professional window contractors are experienced and proficient with measuring for replacement windows, removing old windows and installing new replacement windows.

They have come across a variety of issues and know how to overcome them for the perfect window install. Window manufacturers do not provide a labour warranty, this is covered by the contractor. If the window is installed improperly, this can lead to a host of issues and may even void the manufacturer’s warranty as the window was not installed by a professional contractor.

Making sure your home is prepared and ready for the replacement window installation will help make the process easier and hassle-free for the contractors. Here are a few steps you should take to prepare your home:

1. Be Home – It is important that the homeowner or another adult is home during the installation period to grant the contractors access to the interior of the home. It is a good idea for this individual to be home for the entire installation process, in case there are any issues or questions that need your attention.

2. Clear Pathways – Clear the way for the contractors to be able to maneuver into the rooms they need access to while carrying tools and large, heavy replacement windows. Move any items that may be blocking hallways, or that can be damaged if bumped into, like vases and side tables. Don’t forget to clear the areas outside of your home that crew members will need to access to get to your windows. Planters, tables, chairs and garbage cans should be moved away from the exterior walls of your home to grant easier access.

3. Remove All Window Coverings – Taking down all window covering allows for easy access to the work area, as well as prevents any potential damage from occurring to them. It is also a good idea to take down any photos, mirrors or other items hanging on the walls near your windows.

4. Turn Off Your HVAC System – The process of replacing windows leads to heating and cooling loss within your home. Turning off your air conditioning and heating systems will save energy and the associated cost during the installation period. You can turn your system back on once the project is completed for the day.