If your windows look outdated and don’t open, close, or lock easily, it’s time to consider replacement. New windows can add value and curb appeal to your home and improve its energy efficiency.
Full frame window replacement involves removing existing exterior and interior casings and the window itself. This allows professionals to inspect and repair areas of rot or water damage.
Replacing your windows is one of the best ways to boost your building’s exterior curb appeal. This home improvement project can make a big difference in how your building looks and can also help increase its value.
Adding new windows to your property can dramatically alter its appearance and this is something that many homeowners will find appealing. When you install new windows, you will be able to choose from different styles and sizes so that you can get the perfect fit for your home. Changing the color of the window frames and sills can also help to improve the curb appeal of your property.
You can also choose to install different types of windows, including bay and bow windows, which can add a great deal of character to your home’s exterior. These windows will often feature decorative features that will enhance your home’s overall appearance and they can also let in a lot of natural light, which can create a more comfortable environment inside.
Another way that you can improve your property’s curb appeal is to install a new front door. This is a project that can be done relatively quickly and it will also add a great deal of value to your building’s exterior. The type of door that you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the style of your building.
There are several other ways that you can improve your property’s curb appealing, including installing a new walkway, painting the door and adding some landscaping. Adding some lighting can also help to boost the curb appeal of your property and this is something that you should consider doing if you want to see a dramatic change in the way that your building looks.
The final way that you can improve your home’s curb appeal is to replace your existing windows. This is a project that will provide you with a significant return on investment and it can also make your building more energy efficient. You can choose to install double-glazed or Low-E glass, which will help to reduce heat gain in the summer and it will also help to cut down on your energy bills.
Fix Water Damage
A broken window that allows water to seep through the walls and ceilings of your home can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and other costly problems. If your windows are leaking, you’ll need to hire a professional to inspect and repair the damage.
Moisture problems often appear in the form of fogging between glass panes or condensation on the outside of your window. These problems are the result of special seals that hold double-pane windows in place cracking and hardening over time due to repeated expansion and contraction of the frames caused by changing weather. These seals can be repaired using a special silicone compound.
Other common signs of leaky windows are rotting wood on the sill or frame and softness to the touch. These issues can be difficult to identify, but a professional will know where the source of the problem lies and how to address it.
In addition to repairing sealant and caulking, your window replacement contractor may suggest adding additional insulation to the casing and brickmould around the new windows. Insulation adds an extra barrier to air and moisture, making your home more energy efficient.
Depending on the extent of the leaks and damage, your window replacement company may advise full-frame window replacement. During this process, the original window is removed down to the studs and the opening is rebuilt with a new window. This method is more expensive than repair or installation of a new window but it’s the best way to prevent future problems.
It’s important to remember that if your house is in a historic district and you need to replace your windows, you’ll need prior approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC). LPC approves only those window replacement programs that closely match the style, detailing, and styling of the original building. If your home isn’t in a historic district and the existing frames can remain intact, window repair is typically a more cost-effective solution.
Freshen Up Your Home’s Paint
Having fresh paint on your windows and window sills will give your home a vibrant new look that’s easy to clean and maintain. A fresh coat of exterior paint is a great way to brighten your home’s curb appeal, but you can also use it to cover any scratches or blemishes on your wood framing.
If you are looking for a more permanent solution, window replacement may be the right choice for your home. Many homeowners find that their home windows are starting to show signs of wear and tear, but instead of painting them or trying to repair the damage, it is a better option to replace them with new double-pane windows with improved energy efficiency.
New windows will not only make your home more comfortable, but they will also increase its value. Unlike a paint job, which will only last for a few years before needing to be touched up again, new windows can add value to your home for decades to come.
There are several types of window frames to choose from, so you’ll be able to find one that works best with your home’s architectural style. Aluminum and fiberglass are both durable and modern, while wood frames offer a warm, traditional feel to your home. If you’re interested in reducing your home’s environmental impact, consider a hybrid wood frame that combines the durability of wood with the low maintenance benefits of vinyl or aluminum.
Once you’ve decided on a frame type, consider how your new windows will look from the street. Whether you choose double-hung windows that tilt in for easy cleaning or sliding windows that allow you to take advantage of natural light, the window style you choose will influence how your house looks from the outside for years to come.
If you’re considering window replacement, talk to an expert about your options and budget. They can help you determine whether it makes more sense to repair or replace your existing windows and explain the process of installation. Window replacement is an investment, but it’s a smart move that will help you get the most return on your investment when it comes time to sell your home.
Save Energy
Homeowners can save substantial sums on energy bills by replacing their old single-pane windows with new double or triple-pane windows. Depending on the climate, homeowners can expect to save between $101-$583 per year. The savings are based on energy efficiency ratings and how much more efficiently the new windows operate.
Compared to older home windows, which may have gaps and cracks that let in air, water and ice, replacement windows provide an airtight seal that reduces heating and cooling costs. Keeping the cold out in winter and the hot out in summer will help to lower utility bills and improve comfort.
Window replacement can also be an effective way to improve home security. The improved seal helps to keep intruders from gaining access to your house and helps prevent the infiltration of moisture that can lead to rot and mildew. The right replacement windows can also make maintenance easier, removing the need for unsightly storm windows and reducing the risk of rust and corrosion on the exterior of your home’s frame.
The right window replacement can also increase a home’s value. The increased curb appeal and home energy efficiency can trigger a faster sale, especially for homes with historic significance. It’s important to consult with a reputable contractor before choosing the style and material of your replacement windows so they’ll blend seamlessly with your existing home’s design.
There are a few different ways to replace your home’s windows, including full-frame replacement, insert replacements and sash kits. Full-frame replacement involves removing the entire original window frame, while insert windows install within the existing window opening. Sash kits, like the ones Tom used on his Newton project, give an old window a new set of movable parts by fastening jamb liners to the side jambs of the window opening and slipping the sash in between.
All of these options are available in a variety of styles and sizes to work with any existing window opening or design. For example, a hard-to-reach double hung window over the sink can be replaced with an easy-open awning window to make it safer and more convenient to open and close.