New windows are an important investment in your home. Before you start the process of hiring a contractor, take a little time to learn about how to choose quality windows and the importance of selecting skilled replacement window professionals.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windows

Installing energy-efficient windows is a significant investment, so an important first step is to determine if you’d benefit from new windows. Signs that it’s time to update your home’s windows include:

They Are Difficult to Open or Close

Windows that stick or jam aren’t just inconvenient. Difficulty in operation is also a sign that your windows need to be replaced. Rust, warping, and mold are some of the reasons windows become difficult to open and close and those factors also hinder energy efficiency.

Cold Drafts

If holding your hand in front of your windows gives you an idea of the outside temperature, it’s definitely time for an upgrade. Installing high-performance vinyl windows keeps cold air out in winter and warm air out in summer, and that’s a benefit you’re not getting with drafty windows.

Visible Decay and Other Damage

Decay and other signs of damage diminish curb appeal, but that’s not the only problem. Such damage also leaves your home susceptible to drafts, insects, and moisture damage. If you can spot damage on the interior or exterior of your windows, it’s time for replacement windows.

Higher Utility Bills

If you’ve noticed an uptick in the cost of your heating and cooling costs, or if you notice that you need to increase or decrease the thermostat setting more than you used to, the problem could be with outdated, poorly performing windows.

Outside Noise

Your windows aren’t just a barrier to the weather; they should also be a barrier to exterior noise. If you’re able to hear conversations of people walking by, too-thin glass panes could be, at least partially, to blame. Quality vinyl windows with double- or triple-paned glass reduce outside noise.

Important Window Features

All windows are not the same. If you’re going to invest in replacement windows, choose options that add style, value, protection, and energy efficiency to your home.

Window Styles

Double-hung windows are one of the most popular window styles, but there are many other options to consider. Your window contractor can show you all the available options, and help you make selections that are right for every room in your home. Vinyl window style options include:

Window Materials

Wood, vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum are common window material options. Among those choices, vinyl windows offer superior benefits that make it easy to see why millions of homeowners opt for this type of replacement window.

  • Easy to Maintain: Once installed, quality vinyl windows are virtually maintenance-free.
  • Many Options: Vinyl windows are available in all the popular window styles listed above are available.
  • Energy Efficient: The insulating properties of vinyl window frames help to improve energy efficiency.
  • Affordable: Vinyl windows are a budget-friendly option as they cost less than some other materials, such as wood or fiberglass.

Energy Efficiency

Improving energy efficiency is the main reason homeowners invest in new windows. Even if your home is brand new, the windows may not provide optimal energy-efficient performance.

When choosing new windows, there are several money-saving features to look for, such as:

  • Low-E Glass: Low-E glass reflects solar heat while still allowing light to fully penetrate the glass.
  • Thermal Spacers: Thermal spacers provide continuous insulation that slows the passage of heat.
  • Foam-Filled Chambers: Foam-filled chambers help to keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. As an added benefit, they help with outside noise reduction.

Are you wondering how much you can save on your heating and cooling costs?

A typical homeowner can save nearly $500 a year when updating from single-pane windows to high-performance windows—and some homeowners save even more.

Numbers to Know

  • U-Factor: This describes how effectively windows prevent heat from escaping a home. The scale ranges from 0.15 to 1.20. The lower the number, the better.
  • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: The SHGC measures how well a window prevents solar heat from penetrating a window. The scale is from 0 to 1. As with the U-Factor, lower numbers represent better performance.
  • Visual Transmittance: The scale from 0 to 1 describes how well a window allows light to enter the home. The higher the number, the more natural light that will enter the room.

Warranty Information

Always take the time to ask about the warranty on replacement windows. Learn about what is—and what is not—covered. Some contractors provide a workmanship warranty to complement the manufacturer’s warranty.

How are Window Costs Calculated?

The cost of a new window installation is calculated per window. If you learn the average cost of new windows in your area and then multiply by the number of windows in your home.

This won’t provide an exact cost, but it will give you a rough idea of how much you’ll have to spend on new windows.

The only way to get an exact cost estimate is to have a consultation with a replacement window company. Reputable window contractors will measure your windows, discuss your selections of window styles, and then provide an accurate, written estimate.

Benefits of Working with Window Replacement Professionals

Some home improvements are great weekend DIY projects, but installing new windows isn’t one of them.

Even the best windows on the market won’t give you the energy-efficient performance you want unless they are installed properly. That’s why choosing contractors with experience and a proven reputation for delivering consistently excellent results is a must.

Contact Our Trusted Window Replacement Specialists

Midwest Construction has provided professional replacement window installations since 1958, and we’ve helped thousands of homeowners get the quality new windows they need. Contact us to learn more about our window replacement services and to request a free consultation. Get in touch by calling today or by filling out our online contact form now.