According to recent research by the Department of Energy, your old windows could be increasing your power bill between 20-25%. Instead of continuing to spend time, money, and energy on maintaining old windows, it may just be time to get new ones.
Installing new windows can help lower your energy bills, as well as lower the maintenance costs of keeping old windows functional. In addition, broken windows and windows in disrepair are not only an inconvenient drain on energy, they also pose a security risk to you and your family. Here at Remodeling, M.D., we can help you identify your problem windows and fix them quickly and professionally.
What are signs that you need new windows?
Even if you invest in high quality windows and materials, Maryland’s moody climate can have an impact on your windows. The wear and tear of regular use also has an effect on the lifespan of your windows. If you find that opening or closing your windows is not as smooth as it once was, or if it sometimes gets stuck in the middle, it might be time for a replacement.
1. Recovering from a Severe Storm
One of the most important times to have Remodeling, M.D. come out and check your windows is after a severe storm. During severe storms wind, rain, and debris can all cause damage to windows, especially unprotected ones. You can do an initial walk-around yourself after the storm is over, making sure all the windows work properly and there’s no visible damage. If you notice visible damage or that a window sticks now and it didn’t before, it may be necessary to get some windows replaced.
2. Drafty Windows
If you can feel outside air coming into your house from your windows, even when they’re closed, it’s time to replace your windows. Windows that aren’t fully sealed will cause drafts and impact your energy bill. Drafty windows make your heating and cooling systems work harder and longer than they need to, which leads to an increase in cost.
3. Rotting wood
If you have windows with wood panes, you also have to worry about the wood eventually rotting. By the time the rotting is visible, the damage is usually so severe that that is very difficult and expensive to try to repair it, replacements usually end up being more cost-efficient.
4. Condensation in Windows
Condensation on the inside of your windows can be annoying and problematic. It’s usually caused by an excess of moisture inside your house, and can lead to the rotting of the area around the window. But does condensation on the inside of your window mean that it needs to be replaced? No.
Condensation on the inside of your windows has several DIY fixes and don’t usually require window replacement. However, if there is condensation between the panes of glass in your window, it’s a different story. This kind of condensation usually occurs when the seal between the panes is broken and does require a replacement of the glass, if not the entire window unit.
5. Worn out hinges
If your hinges are old and damaged, then you can easily replace just the hinges. But if it is completely worn out, then it is better to get a window replacement.
Different types of windows
- Awning
Awning windows open outwards and come with a hinge on top. They are mostly used in basements as they can be easily installed high on the wall and provide good ventilation inside. They also add to the overall appearance of your house and can be installed above or below your regular windows.
- Bay & Bow
Bay and bow windows look similar but have some major differences. A bay Window is a set of three, a picture window and two adjoining windows. A bow window comes with four to five openings and a curved exterior. These kinds of windows are good for wide views and to bring more light into your house.
- Vinyl
Vinyl windows require less maintenance and are high in energy savings. These windows also don’t require any kind of painting, staining, or refinishing. Because of this, they have a fairly long lifespan.
- Casement
A casement window is attached to the frames using hinges on the sides and is usually a single window or a pair of windows with a common frame. Opening and closing casement windows is easy and smooth, all you have to do is turn a handle. It is better to go for casement windows installed using high quality hinges as the hinges can wear out quickly due to rust and corrosion.
- Double-hung
Double hung windows are one of the most popular choices for homeowners. These windows can usually be opened by raising the bottom sash or lowering the top sash. Since there is not much exterior protrusion, they are good for looking out over walkways and patios. They are also some of the easiest to clean because they can be tilted inward or outward for easy access during cleaning.
How is window replacement done?
After you contact Remodeling, M.D. about your potential window replacement, there are several things we’ll do. First we’ll come out for a visit to check out the windows and the scope of work needed. We’ll assess any damages, and take all necessary measurements.
After the home visit, we’ll come up with a proposal, which will include a quote for the cost of the project. Once the proposal has been accepted, we can start the replacement work. Depending on the scope of the project the work can typically be done in a day or two.
What factors go into window replacement cost?
There are a number of factors that can affect the cost of a window replacement. The type of window, number of windows, and the number of window frames are all major factors in the cost. Installation costs and labor fees can also affect the price of a project.
We understand that all of this can be a little overwhelming and scary at times and that’s why we’re here to help. With over 30 years of experience, we’ve been able to assist many people like yourself through the entire process, from start to finish. Simply fill out your contact information below and one of our friendly and experienced staff members will contact you as soon as possible.
