T H E H O M E O W N E R ’ S
COMPLETE GUIDEto Replacement Windows
Most people take the windows in their home for granted... It’s something we hardly think about—until there’s a problem.
When windows become too old or dysfunctional, it can affect
the comfort, energy efficiency, and ease of living in your home.
If you’re thinking of replacing some or all of your windows,
you may be feeling a bit overwhelmed with the options.
From window types to materials to pane options, there are
quite a few decisions to be made when buying and installing
replacement windows.
We created this guide to give you the information you need
to make confident, informed decisions about replacement
windows for your home. In this guide, you’ll learn:
DWhen to replace your windows
DFactors to consider when selecting windows
DDifferent options for window types, pane types, and
materials
DThe window replacement process
By the end of this guide, you’ll be empowered to find the right
replacement windows for your home in a way that’s simple and
stress-free.
ARE REPLACEMENT WINDOWS WORTH THE COST?
Home improvement projects are a great
way to increase your home’s market
value, but very few improvements
actually recoup 100 percent of their costs.
Replacement windows, however, are a
sound investment; you’ll recoup around 70
to 80 percent of your costs on your home’s
real estate market value. To give some
perspective, bathroom remodels all have
cost-value ratios of only around 56 percent.
In addition to resale value, replacement
windows also increase energy efficiency
and improve the comfort of your home.
With the increased market value, energy
efficiency and comfort that replacement
windows can bring to a home, they are
certainly a home improvement project that
is worth your time and resources.
The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Replacement Windows 2
When to Replace Your WindowsUnless you’re a window expert, it’s not always easy to tell
whether a window should be repaired or replaced. Before making
any decisions, have a professional assess your windows for signs
of irreparable damage. Here are some signs your windows may
need replacing:
They’re old, drafty, single-pane windows
You find a significant amount of rot (wooden windows)
They’re damaged, warped or broken
They’re extremely difficult to open or close
They’re over 20 years old
The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Replacement Windows 3
Selecting Replacement Windows You’ve decided that it’s time for replacement windows—so where
do you start your search? There is a wide variety of options so
that you can get the right windows for your needs. Here are the
most important considerations you’ll need to take into account
when selecting replacement windows.
ENERGY EFFICIENCYToday’s window technology has come a long way from how
homes used to be built, and newer windows’ energy efficiency
is better than ever. When done right, replacement windows can
save you money on your energy bills.
The best way to compare window efficiency is to look at the
whole-unit U-value and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC).
U-Value: Rating for door and window units that describes how much heat energy is gained or lost. The lower the
U-value, the more energy efficient the system in question
will be.
SHGC: The fraction of solar radiation admitted through a window. The lower a window’s Solar Heat Gain Coefficient,
the less solar heat it transmits.
Why do these numbers matter? The less heat that you gain or lose
through your windows, the less you will need to run your heating
system or air conditioner. If you’re replacing outdated single pane
windows with little to no energy efficiency, you’ll see a larger
difference in your energy bill.
The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Replacement Windows 4
The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Replacement Windows 5
PRICEBudget is one of the biggest factors people consider when
buying replacement windows. Depending on the brand,
material, and style you choose, your costs could differ.
There are two different procedures for replacement windows:
Insert Replacements (Lower Cost): Reuse all interior and exterior trim; new windows fit inside the existing
window frame. Quick install and minimal materials required.
Vinyl Insert Windows: $425-$600 each
Wood Insert Windows: $575-$900 each
Full Tear-Out (Higher Cost): All new trim inside and out; new windows fit inside the stud (rough opening).
Much longer installation and more materials required.
Vinyl Full Tear-Out: $575-$900 each
Wood Full Tear-Out: $650-1,600 each
The drawbacks of cheap windows can add up fast. From
more maintenance to less energy efficiency to being drafty
or not opening properly, buying cheap window products
just to save a bit of cash isn’t going to benefit you in the long
run. Certain glass types and frame materials cost more than
others, and for good reason—they’re better at their jobs. Work
with a professional window company to understand what a
realistic budget might be and ask them to recommend high
quality products in your price range. Remember to find out the
installation cost, too!
APPEARANCEWindows are a prominent feature of any home, both
inside and out. Select replacement windows that
complement and enhance the look of your home.
Choosing the wrong style can detract from the overall
look of your home—and could even lower resale value.
The style of your home affects which windows will
look great once installed. For instance, traditional or
colonial-style homes look best with small double-
hung windows with divided lights, while ranch-style
houses often look best with swing-out casement
windows.
DURABILITY AND MAINTENANCEOnce your windows are installed, they’ll need to be
able to withstand the elements as well as be easy
to clean and maintain. Ask your window dealer
about the different materials available and the level
of maintenance required to keep them durable
and maintain their appearance. Here are some of
the maintenance tasks you may need to perform
occasionally:
Cleaning the panes and frames
Replacing worn-out seals
Repainting frames every several years
Attending to cracks, holes or splinters
The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Replacement Windows 6
PICTURE Simple design adds openness and natural light Typically does not open
Double Hung Windows • A traditional, easy to clean design• A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame in which both the upper and lower halves slide up and down
Single Hung Windows• Conservative styling with a tilt-in sash for convenience• A window consisting of two sashes of glass, the top one stationary and the bottom movable
Casement Windows• A contemporary look for your home, operating smoothly with a fold in handle• A projecting window with a single sash hinged at the sides and usually opens outward like a door
Awning Windows• Opens out for ventilation and seals weather-tight when closed• Hinged at the top, projecting outward to provide ample ventilation
Sliding Windows • A modern style, perfect for rooms with limited space• A window where the sash moves horizontally
Bay Windows • Creates a dramatic focal point and a cozy spot to curl up in• An arrangement of three or more individual window units that project from the building from various angles, usually 30º and 45º configurations mounted with a head and seatboard
Bow Windows• An elegant curve offering a panoramic view• An angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations. The windows are attached at 10-degree angles to project a more circular, arced appearance
Garden Windows• A unique design, adding dimension and functionality• A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides except the bottom, which serves as a shelf
Picture Windows• Adds openness and increases natural light• A large, non-operating window that provides a panoramic view
Geometric Shapes• Creates an original, one-of-a-kind configuration• Specially designed windows classified as either Straight Line Geometrics such as rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, octagons, pentagons etc., or Radius Geometrics which include half-rounds, quarter-rounds, full-rounds, sectors, ellipses, eyebrows, etc.
Types of Windows
7
Double Hung Windows • A traditional, easy to clean design• A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame in which both the upper and lower halves slide up and down
Single Hung Windows• Conservative styling with a tilt-in sash for convenience• A window consisting of two sashes of glass, the top one stationary and the bottom movable
Casement Windows• A contemporary look for your home, operating smoothly with a fold in handle• A projecting window with a single sash hinged at the sides and usually opens outward like a door
Awning Windows• Opens out for ventilation and seals weather-tight when closed• Hinged at the top, projecting outward to provide ample ventilation
Sliding Windows • A modern style, perfect for rooms with limited space• A window where the sash moves horizontally
Bay Windows • Creates a dramatic focal point and a cozy spot to curl up in• An arrangement of three or more individual window units that project from the building from various angles, usually 30º and 45º configurations mounted with a head and seatboard
Bow Windows• An elegant curve offering a panoramic view• An angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations. The windows are attached at 10-degree angles to project a more circular, arced appearance
Garden Windows• A unique design, adding dimension and functionality• A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides except the bottom, which serves as a shelf
Picture Windows• Adds openness and increases natural light• A large, non-operating window that provides a panoramic view
Geometric Shapes• Creates an original, one-of-a-kind configuration• Specially designed windows classified as either Straight Line Geometrics such as rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, octagons, pentagons etc., or Radius Geometrics which include half-rounds, quarter-rounds, full-rounds, sectors, ellipses, eyebrows, etc.
Types of Windows
7
Double Hung Windows • A traditional, easy to clean design• A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame in which both the upper and lower halves slide up and down
Single Hung Windows• Conservative styling with a tilt-in sash for convenience• A window consisting of two sashes of glass, the top one stationary and the bottom movable
Casement Windows• A contemporary look for your home, operating smoothly with a fold in handle• A projecting window with a single sash hinged at the sides and usually opens outward like a door
Awning Windows• Opens out for ventilation and seals weather-tight when closed• Hinged at the top, projecting outward to provide ample ventilation
Sliding Windows • A modern style, perfect for rooms with limited space• A window where the sash moves horizontally
Bay Windows • Creates a dramatic focal point and a cozy spot to curl up in• An arrangement of three or more individual window units that project from the building from various angles, usually 30º and 45º configurations mounted with a head and seatboard
Bow Windows• An elegant curve offering a panoramic view• An angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations. The windows are attached at 10-degree angles to project a more circular, arced appearance
Garden Windows• A unique design, adding dimension and functionality• A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides except the bottom, which serves as a shelf
Picture Windows• Adds openness and increases natural light• A large, non-operating window that provides a panoramic view
Geometric Shapes• Creates an original, one-of-a-kind configuration• Specially designed windows classified as either Straight Line Geometrics such as rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, octagons, pentagons etc., or Radius Geometrics which include half-rounds, quarter-rounds, full-rounds, sectors, ellipses, eyebrows, etc.
Types of Windows
7
Double Hung Windows • A traditional, easy to clean design• A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame in which both the upper and lower halves slide up and down
Single Hung Windows• Conservative styling with a tilt-in sash for convenience• A window consisting of two sashes of glass, the top one stationary and the bottom movable
Casement Windows• A contemporary look for your home, operating smoothly with a fold in handle• A projecting window with a single sash hinged at the sides and usually opens outward like a door
Awning Windows• Opens out for ventilation and seals weather-tight when closed• Hinged at the top, projecting outward to provide ample ventilation
Sliding Windows • A modern style, perfect for rooms with limited space• A window where the sash moves horizontally
Bay Windows • Creates a dramatic focal point and a cozy spot to curl up in• An arrangement of three or more individual window units that project from the building from various angles, usually 30º and 45º configurations mounted with a head and seatboard
Bow Windows• An elegant curve offering a panoramic view• An angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations. The windows are attached at 10-degree angles to project a more circular, arced appearance
Garden Windows• A unique design, adding dimension and functionality• A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides except the bottom, which serves as a shelf
Picture Windows• Adds openness and increases natural light• A large, non-operating window that provides a panoramic view
Geometric Shapes• Creates an original, one-of-a-kind configuration• Specially designed windows classified as either Straight Line Geometrics such as rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, octagons, pentagons etc., or Radius Geometrics which include half-rounds, quarter-rounds, full-rounds, sectors, ellipses, eyebrows, etc.
Types of Windows
7
CASEMENT Attached to the frame by hinges Typically opens outward like a door
SLIDING Open sideways, with one pane sliding over the other Used in openings that are wider than they are tall
AWNING Opens outward for ventilation Hinged at the top Often used in combination with another window style
Which Window Type is Right for You?Once you have an idea of the factors that matter most to you, it’s time to choose the type of replacement windows you’ll
be installing in your home. We strongly recommend having a professional window installation company assess your
home as part of your process. Some windows may be easier to install in your home than others, which could help cut
down on installation costs and overall project time.
DOUBLE HUNG Both the sash and the frame move up and down Sashes tilt for easy cleaning
Double Hung Windows • A traditional, easy to clean design• A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame in which both the upper and lower halves slide up and down
Single Hung Windows• Conservative styling with a tilt-in sash for convenience• A window consisting of two sashes of glass, the top one stationary and the bottom movable
Casement Windows• A contemporary look for your home, operating smoothly with a fold in handle• A projecting window with a single sash hinged at the sides and usually opens outward like a door
Awning Windows• Opens out for ventilation and seals weather-tight when closed• Hinged at the top, projecting outward to provide ample ventilation
Sliding Windows • A modern style, perfect for rooms with limited space• A window where the sash moves horizontally
Bay Windows • Creates a dramatic focal point and a cozy spot to curl up in• An arrangement of three or more individual window units that project from the building from various angles, usually 30º and 45º configurations mounted with a head and seatboard
Bow Windows• An elegant curve offering a panoramic view• An angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations. The windows are attached at 10-degree angles to project a more circular, arced appearance
Garden Windows• A unique design, adding dimension and functionality• A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides except the bottom, which serves as a shelf
Picture Windows• Adds openness and increases natural light• A large, non-operating window that provides a panoramic view
Geometric Shapes• Creates an original, one-of-a-kind configuration• Specially designed windows classified as either Straight Line Geometrics such as rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, octagons, pentagons etc., or Radius Geometrics which include half-rounds, quarter-rounds, full-rounds, sectors, ellipses, eyebrows, etc.
Types of Windows
7
Double Hung Windows • A traditional, easy to clean design• A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame in which both the upper and lower halves slide up and down
Single Hung Windows• Conservative styling with a tilt-in sash for convenience• A window consisting of two sashes of glass, the top one stationary and the bottom movable
Casement Windows• A contemporary look for your home, operating smoothly with a fold in handle• A projecting window with a single sash hinged at the sides and usually opens outward like a door
Awning Windows• Opens out for ventilation and seals weather-tight when closed• Hinged at the top, projecting outward to provide ample ventilation
Sliding Windows • A modern style, perfect for rooms with limited space• A window where the sash moves horizontally
Bay Windows • Creates a dramatic focal point and a cozy spot to curl up in• An arrangement of three or more individual window units that project from the building from various angles, usually 30º and 45º configurations mounted with a head and seatboard
Bow Windows• An elegant curve offering a panoramic view• An angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations. The windows are attached at 10-degree angles to project a more circular, arced appearance
Garden Windows• A unique design, adding dimension and functionality• A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides except the bottom, which serves as a shelf
Picture Windows• Adds openness and increases natural light• A large, non-operating window that provides a panoramic view
Geometric Shapes• Creates an original, one-of-a-kind configuration• Specially designed windows classified as either Straight Line Geometrics such as rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, octagons, pentagons etc., or Radius Geometrics which include half-rounds, quarter-rounds, full-rounds, sectors, ellipses, eyebrows, etc.
Types of Windows
7
Double Hung Windows • A traditional, easy to clean design• A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame in which both the upper and lower halves slide up and down
Single Hung Windows• Conservative styling with a tilt-in sash for convenience• A window consisting of two sashes of glass, the top one stationary and the bottom movable
Casement Windows• A contemporary look for your home, operating smoothly with a fold in handle• A projecting window with a single sash hinged at the sides and usually opens outward like a door
Awning Windows• Opens out for ventilation and seals weather-tight when closed• Hinged at the top, projecting outward to provide ample ventilation
Sliding Windows • A modern style, perfect for rooms with limited space• A window where the sash moves horizontally
Bay Windows • Creates a dramatic focal point and a cozy spot to curl up in• An arrangement of three or more individual window units that project from the building from various angles, usually 30º and 45º configurations mounted with a head and seatboard
Bow Windows• An elegant curve offering a panoramic view• An angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations. The windows are attached at 10-degree angles to project a more circular, arced appearance
Garden Windows• A unique design, adding dimension and functionality• A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides except the bottom, which serves as a shelf
Picture Windows• Adds openness and increases natural light• A large, non-operating window that provides a panoramic view
Geometric Shapes• Creates an original, one-of-a-kind configuration• Specially designed windows classified as either Straight Line Geometrics such as rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, octagons, pentagons etc., or Radius Geometrics which include half-rounds, quarter-rounds, full-rounds, sectors, ellipses, eyebrows, etc.
Types of Windows
7
Double Hung Windows • A traditional, easy to clean design• A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame in which both the upper and lower halves slide up and down
Single Hung Windows• Conservative styling with a tilt-in sash for convenience• A window consisting of two sashes of glass, the top one stationary and the bottom movable
Casement Windows• A contemporary look for your home, operating smoothly with a fold in handle• A projecting window with a single sash hinged at the sides and usually opens outward like a door
Awning Windows• Opens out for ventilation and seals weather-tight when closed• Hinged at the top, projecting outward to provide ample ventilation
Sliding Windows • A modern style, perfect for rooms with limited space• A window where the sash moves horizontally
Bay Windows • Creates a dramatic focal point and a cozy spot to curl up in• An arrangement of three or more individual window units that project from the building from various angles, usually 30º and 45º configurations mounted with a head and seatboard
Bow Windows• An elegant curve offering a panoramic view• An angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations. The windows are attached at 10-degree angles to project a more circular, arced appearance
Garden Windows• A unique design, adding dimension and functionality• A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides except the bottom, which serves as a shelf
Picture Windows• Adds openness and increases natural light• A large, non-operating window that provides a panoramic view
Geometric Shapes• Creates an original, one-of-a-kind configuration• Specially designed windows classified as either Straight Line Geometrics such as rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, octagons, pentagons etc., or Radius Geometrics which include half-rounds, quarter-rounds, full-rounds, sectors, ellipses, eyebrows, etc.
Types of Windows
7
Double Hung Windows • A traditional, easy to clean design• A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame in which both the upper and lower halves slide up and down
Single Hung Windows• Conservative styling with a tilt-in sash for convenience• A window consisting of two sashes of glass, the top one stationary and the bottom movable
Casement Windows• A contemporary look for your home, operating smoothly with a fold in handle• A projecting window with a single sash hinged at the sides and usually opens outward like a door
Awning Windows• Opens out for ventilation and seals weather-tight when closed• Hinged at the top, projecting outward to provide ample ventilation
Sliding Windows • A modern style, perfect for rooms with limited space• A window where the sash moves horizontally
Bay Windows • Creates a dramatic focal point and a cozy spot to curl up in• An arrangement of three or more individual window units that project from the building from various angles, usually 30º and 45º configurations mounted with a head and seatboard
Bow Windows• An elegant curve offering a panoramic view• An angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations. The windows are attached at 10-degree angles to project a more circular, arced appearance
Garden Windows• A unique design, adding dimension and functionality• A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides except the bottom, which serves as a shelf
Picture Windows• Adds openness and increases natural light• A large, non-operating window that provides a panoramic view
Geometric Shapes• Creates an original, one-of-a-kind configuration• Specially designed windows classified as either Straight Line Geometrics such as rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, octagons, pentagons etc., or Radius Geometrics which include half-rounds, quarter-rounds, full-rounds, sectors, ellipses, eyebrows, etc.
Types of Windows
7
Double Hung Windows • A traditional, easy to clean design• A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame in which both the upper and lower halves slide up and down
Single Hung Windows• Conservative styling with a tilt-in sash for convenience• A window consisting of two sashes of glass, the top one stationary and the bottom movable
Casement Windows• A contemporary look for your home, operating smoothly with a fold in handle• A projecting window with a single sash hinged at the sides and usually opens outward like a door
Awning Windows• Opens out for ventilation and seals weather-tight when closed• Hinged at the top, projecting outward to provide ample ventilation
Sliding Windows • A modern style, perfect for rooms with limited space• A window where the sash moves horizontally
Bay Windows • Creates a dramatic focal point and a cozy spot to curl up in• An arrangement of three or more individual window units that project from the building from various angles, usually 30º and 45º configurations mounted with a head and seatboard
Bow Windows• An elegant curve offering a panoramic view• An angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations. The windows are attached at 10-degree angles to project a more circular, arced appearance
Garden Windows• A unique design, adding dimension and functionality• A three-dimensional window that projects from the exterior wall and usually has glazing on all sides except the bottom, which serves as a shelf
Picture Windows• Adds openness and increases natural light• A large, non-operating window that provides a panoramic view
Geometric Shapes• Creates an original, one-of-a-kind configuration• Specially designed windows classified as either Straight Line Geometrics such as rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, octagons, pentagons etc., or Radius Geometrics which include half-rounds, quarter-rounds, full-rounds, sectors, ellipses, eyebrows, etc.
Types of Windows
7
SINGLE HUNG Top sash is fixed in place Usually conservative styling
BOW Offers a panoramic view Angled combination of windows in 3, 4 or 5 lite configurations
Creates a circular, arced appearance
BAY Creates a dramatic focal point Projects outward from an outside wall Features 3 or more individual, angled window units
GARDEN Acts like a greenhouse in your home Fitted with an exterior shelf for plants and herbs
GEOMETRIC SHAPES Specially designed, creates an original configuration Often found on historic homes Common shapes include trapezoids, octagons, half-rounds, quarter-rounds, etc.
WHAT IS LOW-E GLASS?
Low emissivity, or low-E coatings,
minimize the amount of ultraviolet and
infrared light that can pass through glass
without compromising the amount of
visible light that gets through. When the
sun shines through your window, low-E
glass will reflect a lot of that unwanted
energy back toward the outside instead of
letting the heat in. That means it’s much
easier to keep your house cool in the
summer and warm in the winter.
TYPES OF WINDOW PANES
Single Pane – Uses only one pane of glass. Although it’s true that single pane windows are still available today, we would
not recommend replacing windows in your home with single
pane windows! If you currently have this type of window, that
is probably one of the reasons you are seeking to replace them.
With the advances in window technology, few homeowners
continue to use single pane windows. Though inexpensive, these
types of window panes are poor insulators and would be better
used for outdoor sheds or garages that require little insulation.
Double Pane – Two panes of glass are separated by an insulating layer of air or clear, odorless gas. This is the most
popular replacement choice for today’s homeowners. These
durable windows protect your home from the cold during the
winter, keep A/C inside during the summer, and provide an
effective sound barrier. Additional Low-E coatings can block
harmful UV rays.
Triple Pane – Made up of three panes of glass. The middle pane is surrounded by inert gas on both sides. Triple pane windows
are ideal for insulation homes that are exposed to extremely
cold or hot temperatures, although they are a more expensive
alternative to double pane windows. Additionally, the energy-
saving factor between double and triple pane windows is quite
small, so, if you choose triple pane windows, be careful that this
upgrade doesn’t raise the price of your project beyond its value.
The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Replacement Windows 7
TYPES OF WINDOW MATERIALS
Aluminum – We would not recommend aluminum windows to many homeowners. While aluminum is extremely durable
and can withstand demanding conditions, these types of
windows not commonly used in residential construction.
Vinyl – This is one of the most popular window replacement materials available. Vinyl windows are made from PVC with
hollow chambers inside to help them resist heat transfer
and condensation. Vinyl windows don’t require painting or
finishing, and the material doesn’t fade or rot.
Wood – With a classic style that is readily customizable, wood windows are particularly attractive, especially in
interiors. Wood is durable, strong, and energy efficient.
However, wood windows often require increased
maintenance because of wear from the elements. Unless
diligently maintained, wood windows are prone to rot and
warping.
Wood-Clad – This material offers the benefits of wood on the inside, but are covered on the exterior with a tough, low-
maintenance aluminum jacket, which helps prevent rot.
Fiberglass – This newer window material is stronger than vinyl, however it does typically cost more and its color
choices are limited. Fiberglass windows are extremely durable
and won’t rot or decay. They’re ideal for larger windows
because their superior strength allows them to support the
weight of the glass panes.
The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Replacement Windows 8
The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Replacement Windows 9
How to Choose a Replacement Window Contractor Now that you are familiar your replacement window options,
it’s time to buy your windows and get them installed!
Here are some tips for choosing the right replacement window installers:
BEWARE THE PICKUP TRUCK CONTRACTORMany of the renovation horror stories you hear have to do with
“pickup truck contractors.” Homeowners hire a jack-of-all-trades
to complete their projects, instead of a trusted company with
a team of professionals, looking forward to a lower cost and
simplified process. But in reality, these types of builders often
don’t have the trade or time management skills to complete the
job properly and under deadline.
KNOW YOUR WARRANTY AND SERVICE CONTRACTWhen you sign a contract for the company that is to complete
your installation, be sure the contract includes your warranty
and service contract information. Understand exactly what the
warranty covers. Does it protect you if the installation was done
incorrectly, or only if there is a defect with the product itself?
Is the warranty just from the window manufacturer, or will the
installation company warranty their services as well?
HOW LONG?
This is one of the most loaded
questions in the window industry. When
homeowners ask this question, they could
be looking for a few different answers:
How long will you be in my house?
How long is the warranty period?
How long will my windows last?
Each of these answers depends on your
home, the scope of your project, and
the brand and type of windows you
purchased. Be sure to talk to your window
contractor about each of these “how long”
questions to help set your expectations
for the project.
ASSESS HOW LONG THE COMPANY HAS BEEN IN BUSINESS
When it comes to replacing windows, experience matters.
Window installation techniques are constantly being updated.
An experienced company that has been in business for many
years is sure to have a highly trained team and be up-to-date
on the latest best practices and products.
Other factors to consider: are the employees trained in proper
installation by the window manufacturers? Does the company
use subcontractors to handle their installations? It’s important
to have factory-trained technicians install your replacement
windows so that you can be sure the installation is being done
properly. Improver window installation can pose major problems
down the line—anything from leaks to drafts to lack of an
airtight seal.
We strongly recommend you work with a professional window
company throughout this process—that is, a company that sells,
installs, and services residential replacement windows. There are
a few reasons why this is the best option. A window company
has the knowledge and experience to help you choose the right
products for your home based on an assessment. But they will
also ensure a correct, professional installation that you can trust
to be done right.
The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Replacement Windows 10
The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Replacement Windows 11
The Window Replacement Process What happens from the moment you decide to replace your
windows to when the installers leave for the last time?
Here’s a snapshot of the window replacement process from
beginning to end:
CONSULTATIONThe very first step in replacing your windows is to define your
needs. When you call up a window company, you’ll be asked
many questions (Do you need full window replacements, or do
you just need to replace the glass? How many windows are you
replacing? What kind of shape are your current windows in? What
is your budget?) You may not know the exact answers to these
questions, but it will make the process go much smoother if you
can convey your needs to the professionals.
IN-HOME ASSESSMENTIf you and the window company both agree they can help you,
the next step is an in-home assessment. An estimator will come
to your home to measure and inspect your current windows to
ensure an exact fit for the replacements. They’ll also look for signs
of damage that may need to be addressed, such as rot.
WHAT HAPPENS IF WE FIND WINDOW ROT?
Rot is a common problem found on
window frames and sills. If window rot is
found during your assessment, be sure
your installation company is able to address
it during the installation process. Not all
window technicians will deal with rot, and
many will call in other professionals to
take care of it, which draws out the project
timeline. Also, be sure to select low-
maintenance, highly durable replacement
windows in order to avoid dealing with this
problem again.
WINDOW SELECTIONWith the right information gathered about your project, a
window specialist will help you select the best windows based
on the characteristics of your home. You’ll have the opportunity
to explore style, materials, and energy efficiency ratings with the
guidance of professionals.
PROPOSALThe window company will provide an estimate for your chosen
window products and installation costs. Once you sign the
proposal and provide a deposit, the work can begin!
INSTALLATIONInstallation technicians will work on replacing your old windows
with the new ones you’ve selected. They’ll remove the old
windows, and may remove the frames depending on the
recommendations from your in-home estimate. Then they’ll fit
the new windows into place, making sure they’re level, plumb,
and airtight. Experienced installers should be able to complete
approximately 6-8 windows per day.
ENJOY YOUR NEW WINDOWS!Replacement windows offer comfort and beauty to any home.
Enjoy living with your new windows, and be sure to check your
warranty if you experience any problems.
The Homeowner’s Complete Guide to Replacement Windows 12
acmeglassvt.com(802) 658-1400
START THE CONVERSATION ABOUT
replacement windows for your home.
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