Windows can be a very important part of a home’s design, as they let in extra lighting and allow you to see your environment. However, they’re fragile and can break over time with the normal wear and tear from usage and outside weather. People will need to replace their windows now and then to repair that damage. But you should be cautious when making these repairs, as there are a lot of easy-to-make mistakes when replacing your windows.
When You Should Replace Windows
The first thing you should know before trying to replace your windows is how to know when to replace them. There are a few signs and signals you can look out for to identify whether replacements are necessary.
Leaks and Cracks
The biggest indicator that you’ll need replacement windows is if you see any cracks in the frame of the window. These issues aren’t something you can really patch over, and they lead to leaks that ruin your ability to control the temperature in your house. Additionally, if you can feel any air leaks when near the window, it may be time to replace it.
Higher Energy Bill
Sometimes it’s difficult to tell if something is wrong with your windows by visually inspecting them. However, there are other tools you can use to tell if something is wrong, and one of the best ones is your energy bill. If your windows are no longer insulating your home, you’ll see an increase in your energy bill that you can’t explain otherwise.
Higher Noise Pollution
A high-quality window will block out much of the noise that comes from outside the house, which is a solid sign that your windows are in good condition. However, if you notice an increase in overall noise pollution, you’re likely dealing with windows that a replacement. So always keep an ear out for this sign of an aging window.
Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing Your Windows
When it comes to making mistakes when replacing windows, the most common ones stem from the windows homeowners choose. After all, there are dozens of factors to consider as you try to select the right windows for your home. Here’s a look at what you should watch for when choosing a replacement window.
Getting the Same Window
You should never just default to the same exact window you had before. While it may seem like a good fit, technology is always improving, and there may be many better options out there now. You should look for options that offer higher energy efficiency, improved soundproofing, and greater durability than your current window.
Bad Basic Functions
A window is a tool in your home, and you’ll want to make sure that you can use it. For example, if your window can open, make sure it can do it easily before you install it in your home. Otherwise, you’ll struggle with the window for the entire time you have it. Always check the basic functions of a window before making a purchase.
Lacking Energy Efficiency
Windows are natural weak points when it comes to insulation in your home. They let out heat and let in cool air, which puts a drain on your energy as you need to use heaters and air conditioning to counteract the losses. A high-efficiency window will prevent these losses and save you money over time, but an ill-fitted or low-efficiency window will raise your bills.
Unsecure Windows
As with energy efficiency, windows are a weak point for the home when it comes to security. It’s extremely easy for someone to break a window if it doesn’t have the proper security features and protection. It’s crucial to consider security and safety when looking at various window replacement options.
Lacking Location Information
The location of your home and the surrounding climate can have a big impact on your windows and your needs. Humid climates will need a different set of windows than their dry counterparts, and you may need impact windows if you live near a place with frequent extreme weather events. Failing to account for your region’s climate can lead to the wrong window choice.
Buying the Most Expensive Option
Windows aren’t a product where higher costs always equate to better quality, as there are many things that factor into the final price. Factors such as material costs and international shipping can increase the cost without improving quality. So don’t buy an expensive window assuming it’ll be better than something cheaper.
Replacing the Windows
People may also make a lot of mistakes during the window installation process. There’s a lot to do when trying to install your windows, and if you don’t have the knowledge to do it properly, it’s easy to make a mistake.
Attempting Self-Installation
Window installation isn’t a project you can just pick up and do by yourself—it requires plenty of relevant knowledge and skill. Between the difficulty of working with glass and setting it into a wall while worrying about sealant and proper insulation, it’s easy to mess up in a way you can’t fix.
Finding a Good Contractor
Instead of installing the window by yourself, you can rely on professionals who offer window installation services. However, it’s difficult to find a good contractor if you don’t do your due diligence and screen them before hiring them. Look at online reviews and compare each business to other options so that you can find the best company for the job. You should also compare prices between companies to ensure you’re getting the best deal for both installation and the cost of the windows.
Improper Upkeep Planning
Lastly, one of the biggest mistakes you can make when replacing your windows is to forget about maintenance and upkeep planning. Each window needs certain maintenance to stay in top shape, and you should consider the maintenance requirements when installing the windows. If you plan around the window’s maintenance needs, it’ll be much easier to clean and repair your windows in the future.
These are the mistakes you need to watch out for in your own home—otherwise, you’ll be paying for them for years to come. You’ll see higher energy bills and have issues with noise and leaking if you make these mistakes in your window selection. Take your time when making your decision to choose the best replacement windows for your home.
Recent Comments