Replacement Windows Massachusetts will boost your home’s curb appeal and increase its value. However, there are many factors to consider before making a purchase.
Major signs of rot or water damage are deal breakers; so are window frames out of square by more than 1/2 inch. Also, if your windows don’t open easily, they may pose safety issues in case of a fire.
Replacing your home’s windows is a big project and it’s not for the financially faint of heart. According to Thumbtack, the online local-services marketplace, the average cost for a replacement window is $500 and if you’re replacing all of your home’s windows, it can be upwards of $17,645. The exact amount of money you will spend on your replacement windows will depend on a variety of factors, including the style of windows you choose, the material they are made from, and where you live in the country.
Unlike new construction windows, which are installed in openings created for them, replacement windows are designed to fit in existing window frames and can be used in a wide range of home styles. You can choose from double-hung, casement, sliding, bay and bow windows, awnings, fixed-angle windows and more. There are also many options in terms of colors and finishes, from wood to vinyl.
The best replacement windows will offer several features that can save you money and energy. For instance, a Low-E coating reflects heat and reduces the amount of UV light entering your house, which can prevent carpets and furniture from fading. A SHGC rating and ENERGY STAR rating are other important considerations when shopping for replacement windows.
If your old windows are drafty, you have high energy bills or you’re bothered by noise coming from outside, a replacement may be a wise investment for your home. You can expect to see lower heating and cooling costs, reduced fading of interior surfaces and improved curb appeal.
The best replacement windows are those that you’ll enjoy living with for a long time and can add value to your home. Look for a brand that offers an excellent warranty and great customer service, along with a wide selection of products. Conduct research on the company’s products and installation methods, read reviews and testimonials and visit showrooms to get a feel for their product.
Energy Efficiency
Getting replacement windows that are energy efficient is widely lauded as an effective way to cut down on drafts and save money on heating bills. But how much do these windows cost, and how much do they really save?
The energy savings of replacement windows can be significant. By insulating your home and preventing heat transfer and blocking drafts, they can reduce your dependence on air conditioning systems during the summer and heating system during the winter. In the long run, these savings can help offset your initial investment in energy-efficient replacement windows.
While there are many factors to consider when selecting replacement windows, you can make a good choice by choosing models that have been ENERGY STAR or NFRC (National Fenestration Ratings Council) certified. This designation ensures that your new windows have been thoroughly tested and meet a specific set of performance standards. These windows can be installed in existing window openings or can be used as part of a new construction project.
Replacement windows are available in a variety of styles and designs to match your home’s style and size requirements. Some are designed to fit into an existing frame and can be used as a single- or double-hung window or as a bay or bow window. Others are designed to be installed as a full-frame window. They can be a fixed or venting unit and are available in wood, aluminum-clad wood or vinyl.
The most energy-efficient replacement windows have multiple panes of glass. The gap between the glass panes is usually filled with a nonreactive gas, such as argon or krypton, which further insulates your home. You should also choose windows with low-E coatings to minimize the amount of sunlight that passes through them into your home. Lastly, you should consider installing awnings or overhangs that will further shade your windows and reduce solar heat gain. Depending on where you live, you may also be eligible for state and local tax credits. These can offset the initial purchase and installation costs of your replacement windows. Contact your local energy department for more information.
Durability
In addition to cost and energy efficiency, homeowners should also consider the durability of their replacement windows. A high-quality window should be able to stand up to weather conditions and other stresses, such as the weight of snow or rain.
A good manufacturer will offer a warranty for their replacement windows that covers both the materials and workmanship of the product. Some manufacturers offer lifetime warranties while others provide limited or prorated warranties. Lifetime warranties can include replacement parts and labor costs, as well as transferable options if the homeowner decides to sell their home.
The best replacement windows are made with durable, long-lasting materials that can resist fading and moisture damage. Some manufacturers also offer additional upgrades, such as argon or krypton gas, which add an extra layer of insulation to the glass panes. These upgrades will increase the longevity of the replacement windows, reducing the need for repairs or replacements.
Depending on the style and material, replacement windows can come in different types of frames. Some are designed as insert replacement windows, which slip into an existing window opening and attach to the old frame’s jamb liners. Others are new construction windows that use a detailed metal frame to support the sashes and fasten to the walls. New construction windows are a better option for buildings in historic districts, as they can be installed without requiring the approval of the Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC).
Pella offers a number of different replacement window styles and materials. They also focus on energy efficiency and are rated as the Best Replacement Windows for Energy Efficiency by ENERGY STAR. The company’s Impervia, Defender and Hurricane Shield series all meet ENERGY STAR standards, and buyers can customize their products with higher performance glass options.
Milgard offers a variety of replacement window styles and materials at a reasonable price. Their fiberglass-framed windows are more durable than vinyl and can stand up to heat and cold. Milgard also offers a wide range of colors for the window casing, including clay, dark bronze, white and brushed chrome. Their windows are available in single-hung, slider, casement, awning, picture and radius styles.
Installation
The installation process for replacement windows is much quicker than for new construction because it doesn’t require removing existing materials. It also doesn’t involve building a frame around the opening, making it an ideal choice for homeowners looking for a simple upgrade with minimal disruption to their home.
The replacement window installation process usually takes one day for two installers to complete. However, a few key factors can affect this timeline. Before installation day, it’s important to clear the area where the window professionals will work of furniture and other objects that could get in their way. They’ll also need at least four to six feet of clearance to work on the outside of the window.
After preparing the window opening, the contractor will bore 3/8-inch-diameter holes in the sill and head jambs, and spray foam into the sash weight pockets. This will prevent moisture from seeping into the frames and ruining the seal on your home’s exterior. Then, the contractor will apply an elastomeric caulk around the exterior casings or blind stops on the top and sides of the window frame. They’ll also run a continuous bead of caulk along the sill and header.
Once the replacement windows are installed, a professional will check that the window is centered in the opening and that it opens, closes, and locks smoothly. They’ll also measure the distance from the window sill to the floor and ceiling at both the top and bottom of the opening. They’ll then use shims to ensure the window is plumb and level in both directions.
After the replacement window is properly positioned, the contractor will caulk the inside of the window and around the exterior trim. They’ll also fill the voids in the frame with loose fiberglass or low expansion foam insulation. Then, they’ll caulk and paint the frame to protect it from the elements and weather. They’ll also add a drip cap to keep water from collecting in the corner of the opening. Finally, the installer will install a weather strip to keep moisture out and cold air in during winter.
