5 Replacement Window Basics

1.Window Materials Are Important

Homeowners concerned about maintaining the “classic” look of their own house naturally will reject the idea of installing vinyl windows in favor of wood materials.

But vinyl windows are worth a second glance. Vinyl framing materials inhibit energy loss, don’t require sealing or painting, and a much cheaper than wood. Metal windows are often architecturally necessary (to match the style of contemporary homes), but they tend to be the worst for energy savings.

2.Sure, You Can Enlarge That Window (But Carpentry Is Involved)

As you might suspect, it’s no easy task to enlarge a window opening to accommodate a newer, larger-sized window. But does it require ripping out all of the wallboard and siding?

Thankfully, the answer is…No.

When you enlarge a window opening up to eight inches horizontally, you can keep the same header and sill (the top and bottom parts of the window) and just install one new vertical stud to either side of the window.

Yes, this means ripping out wallboard from floor to ceiling, but width-wise you only need to take out a foot or two, at most. This section of wallboard comes out to accommodate the new stud. And no exterior siding ever has to be removed.

It’s always easier to order smaller sized windows than enlarging a window opening. But if you have to enlarge, it’s certainly a manageable task.

3.Replacement Costs Will Be Far Higher Than You Can Imagine

How much it costs to replace your windows depends on many factors: locale, window materials, type of glazing, installer, and so on. But it is safe to assume that most homeowners will not escape a whole-house window replacement for less than $10,000.

Some homeowners cut costs by hiring a handyman and having him replace the windows. You may save some money. But because the pro window installers have perfected the installation process (and often come in with crews of 10 or more men), the amount of money you save will not be as much as you think, and you certainly will not save time. One nice thing: replacement windows have great resale value when it comes time to sell your house.

4.Replacement Is Not a DIY Project

Replacement windows are a prime example of why it is sometimes nice to have professionals take on a home improvement project.

Pro window installers do this job day in and day out, and they have the tools and skills needed to knock it out in minutes instead of hours or days. In theory, a homeowner can save money by replacing his or her own windows, but by the time you have mastered your learning curve, you are practically finished with the entire project.

5.Any Season Is Window Replacement Season

If replacement window companies only installed in “optimal conditions” such as spring and summer, they would go out of business.

Window technicians may be less than happy about it–but you can get your windows replaced in winter, in cold, in snow, in ice–in anything short of a blizzard.

One problem, though, is that you may not get the best installation. If the technician is uncomfortable, he may rush the job through. Caulking may not set well in extreme conditions. Moisture can affect the tight tolerances related to window installation.

Good companies know how to work through these problems.

One downside of scheduling during temperate seasons is that everyone else is doing the same thing. You may find yourself in a long queue for installation, or you may not even be able to get in during that period.

Summary

Few homeowners who have been through the replacement window installation process will say that they care to repeat it. After all, it is necessary to invite 3-5 companies into your home to give quotes, and then invite one of those companies back to spend 2 or 3 days installing the windows (which necessitates being on the premises the entire time ). It is work, but worthwhile. Your house looks better and feels better.