The change in value will, of course, depend on the size of the home, number of windows replaced, and quality of the replacement windows used. Outside of the time and cost involved, there are few major drawbacks to consider when upgrading windows that actually need to be replaced. Of course, there are pros and cons of different window types, materials, glass, and coatings, all of which are discussed in detail below.
There are several considerations for a homeowner to balance when buying new replacement windows. This section covers the most important factors to consider, including: replacement window types, frame materials, quality, and features that impact energy efficiency. It is natural to start the process of buying replacement windows by considering what the new windows might look like. There are many different styles to choose from. While some have a specific look or add character to a house, others offer unique functions.
Here are the most common styles of replacement windows. Double-hung windows look classic. They have operable lower and upper sashes that allows air to enter through the top and bottom of the window. Often, the sashes tilt inward; sometimes, however, the sashes slide vertically along a track instead.
This is one of the most popular styles of window, and it is available in a variety of styles, materials, colors, and cladding. One negative aspect of this window style is that the sashes can impede the view through the window.
Single-hung windows have a similar appearance to double-hung windows, but differ in that they only offer a single operable sash. The lower sash may tilt or slide vertically along a channel. Single hung windows tend to be more affordable than similar double hung windows. As with double-hung windows, the construction of the window can impede views to outside. Sliding windows are different from double and single-hung windows in that they move horizontally along the track, rather than vertically.
They have one or more panels that move and allow for half of the window to be open. Usually, only a single panel slides while the other remains fixed. Sliding windows can have the same view-obstruction problem that hung windows have. Another downside to this style of window is that dirt and debris tend to gather along the bottom track, which can make the window difficult to open if it is not regularly cleaned and maintained.
This is one of the most affordable styles of windows. Casement windows are hinged on one side with the ability to pivot outward on the other side.
They allow for a great deal of ventilation and are easy to open. Most window manufacturers offer these, as they are an extremely popular type of window. Since they open outward, homeowners should consider carefully where they choose to install these windows. Installing these windows over patios or walkways could create an obstruction when the window is open. Awning windows are similar to casement windows, but they are hinged at the top instead of the side and open from the bottom.
Awning windows are designed to prevent rain from entering a room when the window is open. Projection windows, such as bow left or bay right windows, project outward from the house. The design features multiple fixed panels that complete the entire window and are positioned at various angles. This style allows an enormous amount of light to pass through, illuminating rooms in the daylight hours.
These windows tend to be more expensive and are more difficult to install. Window frames come in a variety of materials which influence the look and durability of the window. The type of material used also impacts energy efficiency and required maintenance.
Some window frame materials are better suited for particular climates, as high temperatures can affect the long term durability of some frames. Homeowners and contractors should be mindful of the different materials that comprise a window, taking special notice of the quality and suitability of the materials for the project.
Vinyl windows are an affordable replacement window option made from polyvinyl chloride PVC. They are rigid and possess hollow chambers inside that make them energy efficient by helping them resist both heat transfer and condensation. Vinyl windows need little maintenance as they do not require any kind of painting or finishing, and they do not fade, rot, chip, or peel.
Most companies will offer lifetime warranties on their vinyl options. The material does, however, limit the choice of colors to shades of white, black, gray, and brown. Also, vinyl windows can begin to warp when exposed to high temperatures and may expand and contract with temperature fluctuations.
For these reasons, they may be better-suited for milder climates. Fiberglass windows are a bit pricier, but when compared to vinyl windows, they are even more energy efficient and durable.
Fiberglass windows are resistant to temperature changes that cause other materials to expand and contract, which means that hardly any air leaks around the frame. Known for their strength, fiberglass is as low maintenance as vinyl. Although quite expensive, wood is an elegant replacement window option. Wood does not conduct as much heat as other materials do and does not allow for much condensation to build up. Wood does require substantial upkeep in order to prevent warping, rotting, and chipping, however.
Additionally, for residents that live in an area with termites, working with a termite treatment company to develop a reliable prevention strategy is recommended. Still, with proper care and refinishing as needed, wood can be an attractive choice for the right house.
Aluminum is an inexpensive option for replacement windows. Aluminum windows are long-lasting because they resist corrosion, and give the window an industrial appearance. They are known to have issues with efficiency since metal does conduct heat; however, this issue can be resolved by selecting an aluminum window that has thermal breaks. Composite windows are a blend of materials that consists of resin and fiberglass. The material is strong and lightweight and requires the same level of maintenance or lack thereof as do vinyl replacement windows.
While composite windows share similar features of vinyl and fiberglass windows, they actually mimic the appearance of wood windows, and they are priced in between vinyl and wood options. Clad windows exist for individuals who want the durability that vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum windows offer, combined with the artistry of wood. These are windows that have wood on the interior of the home, and one of the aforementioned materials on the exterior of the home.
They require less maintenance since the wood only exists on half of the window, and they offer the same level of protection as vinyl or fiberglass options. The performance of a replacement window, or lack thereof, can have a direct impact on the cost of heating and cooling a home as well as the durability of the window over time. Here are some tips to help determine whether a window is a quality product, or cheaply made:.
The hardware of a window consists of all of the components used to open and close a window. Quality hardware is made from solid steel that is cut on laser machines, while cheap hardware is made from stamped metal parts or folded metal sheets.
While other materials can rust over time, parts made from sturdy materials, like stainless steel, will allow the window unit to operate smoothly. Also, windows that have a stable transition from the locked and unlocked position are an indication of quality. Some windows are designed to hide and protect the gear mechanisms from dust, which ultimately improves the longevity of the parts.
Finally, handles and locks made from plastic do not offer the same level of quality as those made from nickel and other metals. When shopping for replacement windows, it is helpful to look at cutouts that allow you to see the internal structure of the window. Look for a window that is constructed from thick walls and multiple chambers or pockets.
Reinforcement, using metal or wood, is used to provide structural rigidity to a window. Reinforcing members can be included inside the window, in various window components, or in-between window units. Reinforcement is often necessary for very large window units, but can also indicate that a smaller window unit may have been made poorly, as small windows should not need reinforcement.
Wood reinforcements may also indicate poor construction as they compromise the energy efficiency of the window. Similarly, metal reinforcements conduct heat, which also inhibits the energy efficiency of the window.
Look for a window that is constructed from thick walls and does not require the use of reinforcements except for with large applications, where the use of reinforcements is unavoidable. A quality window has a high degree of rigidity without the need to add additional reinforcement. Compression seals are used to protect against drafts and keep rain and other elements from entering the home. They are placed between the sashes and frames of a window.
For sliding windows, weatherstripping is used, and for casement or awning windows, bulb seals are used. High-quality windows will feature three seals, while low-quality windows might only have one or two seals. Quality seals are made from Santoprene rubber, which acts as an effective insulator. It is a durable material and will keep a window properly sealed for many years. On the other hand, cheap seals are made from PVC, which breaks easily and will lose its sealing power after only a couple of years.
For many homeowners, energy efficiency is the most popular selling point for replacement windows. The National Association of Home Builders NAHB listed home energy efficiency as the second most likely quality to influence a purchase decision behind community safety.
As different climates require more or less insulation from the sun, performance criteria varies from region to region. In addition to measures of heat transfer and sun-blocking, the NFRC tests visible transmittance, air leakage, and condensation resistance. An NFRC label will not, on its own, indicate a good or bad window.
See the table below for help interpreting the NFRC label when comparing multiple energy efficient replacement window options. Low emissivity, or low-E coatings are thin and transparent coatings that increase the energy efficiency of replacement window glass by reflecting heat while still allowing light to enter.
The effectiveness of low-E coatings and their ability to regulate the temperature inside a home are shown on the NFRC label, so pay close attention to the values when comparing multiple products. Insulated glass makes a home more energy efficient through the use of multiple panes and an insulating medium.
Replacement windows can come in two different methods of installation — full frame replacement and pocket replacement. A full frame replacement window involves removing the entire existing window, frame, moldings and jambs, giving you a completely new unit. A full frame replacement is best when your existing frame and woodwork around your window is in bad condition.
Another reason to get a full frame replacement is if you want different framing and woodwork than you currently have and want to replace it. There are many different styles of replacement windows that can match any home design. However, there are some cases where homeowners choose to install replacement windows in an opening they recently made instead of getting new construction windows.
Why, you ask? For example, we mentioned that people often overlook windows when building a new home. Your replacement windows will be custom made to fit your current opening precisely and securely.
In my eyes, sugar is sugar is sugar, and, as such, the cheapest one wins. When it comes to replacement windows, many manufacturers and window contractors would have you believe all replacement windows are the same. This is especially true for, you guessed it, the ones offering new vinyl windows for some unbelievably low amount, all the while touting how great their window is by jumping up and down on it.
Turns out just like with sugar , there are many differences between vinyl replacement windows. Cost will always be a concern, but most homeowners are looking for the best value.
Sugar and replacement windows…interesting bedfellows. Skip to content. What Are the Differences in Replacement Windows Cost will always be a concern, but most homeowners are looking for the best value. While it is an absolute fact that having the unmatched energy efficiency of a vinyl replacement window requires you to sacrifice some glass area, not all vinyl replacement windows are the same with regards to glass space.
Frame Construction and Insulation— Three things to consider here… How are the frame and sash corners constructed?
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