New Windows Add Curb Appeal and Save Money on Utility Bills

The windows in your home serve a purpose. They let light in, and you can open them to allow a breeze to cool the house on a warm, spring day. Unfortunately, drafty windows also let in heat during the summer, bring cold drafts in when the winter arrives, and can send your energy bills sky high. They drag the value of your home down, but you can correct all of these problems with new windows.

NEW VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOWS

REPLACE YOUR WINDOWS TODAY IN KENTUCKY AND SOUTHERN, IN

An Investment in Your Property

When you have your property appraised, the appraiser looks at your windows. They want to know that the windows all function properly. They open, close, and lock. They confirm that all windowpanes are intact. You will also get a slight boost in the value of your home if the windows are energy efficient. When you go to sell the property, people want to know that you've taken care of the house. They like seeing new windows, and they're willing to pay a little more when you have invested in this upgrade.

Ease of Use

Older windows are often tricky to use. They jam or stick in the glides. The locks may not function properly. Seals wear out, and that invites more air to come pouring in when you don't want it. One great feature of new windows is that they are easier to clean. Many feature options that allow you to either remove panes or open them on hinges, so you can clean the outside of the window from inside the house. When you want to open the windows, you won't have to worry about them sticking or breaking in the process.

Enjoy Peace and Quiet

Energy efficient windows feature double or even triple panes of glass. The void between panes is filled with argon gas for extra insulation. This helps them minimize heat transfer, so the inside of your home will stay comfortable. These windows offer another benefit you may not have considered. Along with better temperature control, these windows also help block noise. Your home will be quieter when the windows are closed, so your home will be more peaceful throughout the day and night.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT WINDOW

Double-Pane Windows Can Save Money on Utility Bills

Start by visiting the Energy Star website to find out what climate zone you reside in and what kinds of windows are best suited to your area. You can determine which windows are right for you by looking at the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient. A higher number is desirable in the north where you want heat from the sun to warm your home, but you should look for a lower SHGC in the south to keep the sun's heat out.

GAS FILLING
Modern double-pane windows are available with krypton or argon gas between the panes. This extra layer of insulation minimizes heat loss and makes your windows more efficient. It's a standard feature on most energy efficient windows, and it makes a huge difference in how energy efficient your windows are.

PROPER INSTALLATION
It's important to have the windows installed properly. If they are not installed correctly, they will be more likely to break and they won't be as energy efficient. Once the windows are in place, any gaps should be filled with insulation. Spray foam is acceptable and easy to work with, but you should take care not to overfill the cavity as this can cause damage. Fiberglass is a better choice, but some people are allergic to it and should wear gloves.

There is no doubt that your home can benefit from replacement windows. They are easier to work than aging windows, and they are far more energy efficient. People in older homes with single pane windows report lowering their utility bills enough to recoup their window investment in just a few short years. However, you may want to consider professional installation to ensure that they will work properly and be as energy efficient as possible.

Lower Utility Bills

It's incredible how much new windows can lower your utility bills. People often underestimate how much the windows can make a difference. If your energy bills are substantially higher than those of your neighbors, old windows could be to blame. Many homeowners have reported recovering the cost of their new windows through lower utility costs in just a few years. In addition to keeping cold drafts away in the winter, the improved insulation will also prevent heat from moving in during the summer months.

Replacement windows are reasonably easy to install, but you must take care to install them properly. If the windows are not perfectly plumb, the sashes will be more likely to stick or warp. The window will not be as energy efficient, and it may break as a result. Consider trusting this job to the professionals at Classic to ensure that your windows are properly installed and will be as energy efficient as possible.

TAKE MEASUREMENTS

With accurate measurements, you can rest assured that the new window will fit perfectly. A tightly fitting window is more efficient and will work reliably. The width is found by measuring between the window jambs. The jamb is the stationary part of the window that the sashes slide along. Measure at the top, bottom and center, and then use the most narrow measurement.

Find the height by measuring from the top of the window sill to the bottom of the head jamb. As with the width, measure at three points and then use the smallest measurements. Accurate measurements are essential to ensure that the new window fits properly and works smoothly.

REMOVE THE ORIGINAL WINDOW

Demolition can make anyone a little nervous, but replacement windows will fit neatly inside your existing frame. Remove the sashes and stop pieces. Work from the inside of your home to make the process easier.

Start by pulling out the stop pieces. Take care with this step because you will re-use the equipment. Remove the inside sash, cut the weights or cords as you go. Leave these items in place in the window.

Take the outside sash to the bottom of the window and discard the parting beads. Leave the exterior stop in place to retain the new window when it is installed.

INSTALL NEW WINDOW

Place the header in the top of the window and caulk it. With the window open, check to be sure it is square. Place shims as necessary to keep it square. With the window centered in the frame, use screws to secure it to the frame. Pre-drill the holes to avoid splitting the wood in the original frame. When installing the screws, make sure they are firm enough to hold the window in place without distorting the frame. Caulk the window on the inside and out, then reinstall the interior stops.

If the windows are not perfectly plumb, the sashes will be more likely to stick or warp. Consider trusting this job to Classic to ensure that your windows are properly installed and will be as energy efficient as possible.

NECESSARY TOOLS

If you are going to install your own windows, you will need some basic tools. Assemble the following tools:

Measuring tape
Screwdriver
Pry bar
Caulk gun and caulk
Replacement window and shims

Square
Chisel and utility knife
Drill
Hammer
Level