In this post you will learn …
- The best time for replacement windows
- How to choose the right windows
- Tips for getting a great deal
If you’ve recently purchased your home, then you are probably experiencing a wide range of emotions ranging from joy to enthusiasm to fear. New homeowners are excited about the prospect of having a space that they own. Depending on the type of home you purchased, it may be a few years before you have to do any maintenance or you may already have home improvement projects planned if you purchased an older home or a fixer upper.
One area of the house that new homeowners may not think about initially are the windows and doors. Having energy-efficient windows and doors will lower your monthly heating and cooling bills, but poor quality doors and windows allow the weather outside to affect the temperature inside your home and also may be a potential security issue. Even if you have purchased a newer home, be aware that builders often use “construction-grade” windows that may quickly fail. In fact, homes less than 20 years old have the highest rate of window failure.
If it is an older home, then it may be best to do your own inspection even before you move in. It’s also a good idea to have all the door locks changed prior to moving in.
Should You Buy Replacement Windows?
As you inspect your new home, check the windows and doors to make sure they shut all the way and lock properly. Sometimes you can feel wind or heat coming through your windows or doors. Place your hand around the window’s edges and to see if you can feel the outside air. Other ways to inspect your home include:
- Look at the caulking. If it’s dry or crumbling, it needs to be replaced.
- Check the paint. Is it peeling or weathered? You may need to scrape off the old paint and caulk and repaint them.
- Are you able to open and shut the windows? Windows that stick or won’t open may signal a swelling of the wood. You may even experience this problem with vinyl or aluminum windows, if the sash or frame was not reinforced and sags.
Choosing Replacement Windows
With so many window companies and options, choosing the right window company can be an overwhelming task. Many homeowners are guided by their budget, but that shouldn’t always be the main focus since windows and doors are generally a one-time purchase. This means that you should invest in the best products and installation. Most reputable companies offer some type of payment plan so that you can buy high-quality replacement windows and pay them off over a period of time. Beautiful new windows and doors will ultimately improve your home’s curb appeal and increase its value. They will also save you money on your energy bills.
Replacing windows requires special skills and tools, so most people hire a professional. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a window installation company:
- Be sure to check references.
- Never use a new company with no portfolio of past projects.
- A good company will have a professional website and well-trained employees to help with each step.
- Your new windows should be built to fit the window opening in your home. When you speak to the company representative, ask questions about how the windows are made, what materials are used and how they fit each window into its opening.
- Ask about the company’s warranty.
If you want to learn more about what to look for when choosing the right company and windows, read our Ultimate Buyer’s Guide. This free guide provides you with 10 tips for what to look for when purchasing replacement windows. If you’re ready to buy windows or want to learn more about Stanek® Windows, contact us today by calling 800-230-8301 or request your free, in-home estimate online.
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