When Missouri homeowners decide it is time to replace their windows there are many window options and features to consider. These options can seem a little daunting, but with the help of CoMo Premium Exteriors, we can provide information to make an informed and educated decision. Read more
If you’re looking to replace one or more windows in your home, you might want to know about popular style choices for replacement window installation projects throughout Missouri. Fortunately, CoMmo Premium Exteriors has replaced hundreds of windows throughout 2021 and thousands over the last few years. Read more
It can be tough to know when it’s time for window replacement, especially if your windows seem to be functioning well enough or you can’t tell if there’s a major draft. But Missouri homeowners need to know when it’s time for window replacement since leaky or drafty windows can severely affect your energy bill, lower your home’s resell value, and more.
For example, if you built your home and all the windows were installed at the same time, and all the windows are the same style and use the same type of frame and glass, all the windows may need to be replaced simultaneously. That’s because one window failing at a single point could indicate that the other, functionally identical windows may also fail at similar points shortly.
How to Tell When It’s Time for Window Replacement
Regardless of when your home’s windows were installed, you can tell when it’s time for window replacement by checking for a few major signs.
Loss of Seal Around the Window
Firstly, a loss of seal around one or more windows could indicate that the window(s) needs to be replaced. You can tell that the seal is having problems if you feel the air from outside coming in or the reverse (for example, if a room with a broken seal window is noticeably colder or warmer than the other rooms of your home).
A loss of seal can reduce energy efficiency and even let moisture into your home over time.
Inoperable Windows
Over time windows can become inoperable, meaning you are unable to open them or close them fully. This can happen for many reasons including poor quality windows, damage from individuals, or house settling issues. Regardless of the reason, if you have a window that no longer closes and latches you have a safety issue that needs to be addressed. Many times inoperable windows also can cause drafts or, the opposite, not open to let in the air when you want it.
Old Glass
Consider when the glass for your home’s windows was installed. Glass technology evolves with the times and improves significantly every few years. If your home’s windows were installed over 20 years ago, odds are the glass, even if it looks functional, could use an upgrade in terms of both energy efficiency and durability.
It’s Time for Window Replacement: Time of Original Installation
Similarly, consider the time of your windows’ original installation. If the windows were installed over a decade previously, chances are they can be replaced and upgraded with modern models that may save you massively on your energy bill.
Can’t See Out of the Window
Of course, if you can’t see straight out of your window or if the light seems distorted or overly filtered, the window might need to be replaced. To be sure, try to clean the window thoroughly – if the glass still doesn’t let light through properly, a replacement is your only real option.
You May Need to Replace More Than One Window
Missouri homeowners should further note that they may need to replace more than one window at once. Even if one window in your home is giving you trouble now, that could be a sign that other windows will showcase the same flaws soon.
It’s oftentimes in your best interest to hire a contractor like Como Premium Exteriors to replace multiple windows simultaneously in the same appointment. This could save you both time and money.
Contact Como Premium Exteriors Today
At the end of the day, window replacement is a part of responsible homeownership and maintenance. But it doesn’t have to be a hassle or even out of your budget. Como Premium Exteriors can help you find the right window replacement materials and styles for your needs. Contact us today to determine whether it’s time for window replacement and more information!
From time to time, you’ll need to determine the best material options for exterior replacement windows for your home. Maybe your previous windows were broken from a storm or from an errant baseball thrown by the kids down the street. Or maybe you want to renovate your home and replace exterior windows with new, energy-efficient models.
In any case, you’ll need to choose the right material for your exterior windows so your new ones are exactly what you need. Let’s break down two of the best materials to consider: vinyl and wood.
Best Material Options for Exterior Replacement Windows: Vinyl Windows
Vinyl windows are typically affordable, making them great for homeowners on a budget
Vinyl windows are usually low maintenance, so they remain durable without requiring tons of upkeep
Vinyl doesn’t chip, peel, rot, or fade in the sun, so it may last for decades without any issues
Vinyl windows are also energy-efficient, offering a wide range of energy-saving features including UV coatings, triple-paned glass, foam-filled frames, and more
One thing to note, however, is that you cannot usually repaint vinyl windows without voiding the manufacturer’s warranty. Because of this, you should choose your vinyl windows in a color that you’ll appreciate for years to come.
Wood Windows
Wood windows have many of the same benefits as vinyl windows but are typically considered a higher-end product.
Wood windows are considered a higher class and aesthetically pleasing to many, especially if a home’s broader frame/siding is also made of wood
Wood windows can be refinished or tweaked using sanding or polishing, allowing you to adjust the look of your home with more specificity
Wood windows boost the curb appeal of your home, which may help you sell it for a higher value in the future
Wood windows can also be energy-efficient if you pair them with high-quality glass and other energy-saving features that can be built into the window
That said, keep in mind that wood windows are also prone to rotting, chipping, and warping compared to other materials, so they require extra maintenance and care. Furthermore, wood windows are usually more expensive than vinyl windows or other exterior window material options.
Things to Consider as a Homeowner
Picking between these two material options for exterior replacement windows can be tough. As a homeowner, you should consider:
The surrounding materials of your home (i.e. does your home use wooden or vinyl siding?)
Whether you want to maintain the windows yourself or if you want something a little less hands-on
Are there local or federal tax incentives, rebates, or discounts from your local electric company for replacing your existing windows with those that meet energy-efficient ratings
Does Energy Efficiency Really Matter?
We’ve talked a lot about energy efficiency, and for good reason. The more energy-efficient your windows are, the more money you’ll save on your utility bill because:
Energy-efficient windows don’t bleed heat outdoors in the winter as much
Energy-efficient windows don’t heat up as much in the summer, forcing you to run your AC more often
Energy-efficient windows are comfortable, classy, and they save you money in the long term. Better yet, you may be able eligible for rebates or discounts from local utility companies or your city.
Best Material Options for Exterior Replacement Windows: Which Exterior Window Material Should You Choose?
Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine which exterior window material is right for your needs and your budget limitations.
If you’re still unsure, you can contact Como Premium Exteriors for more information. We can answer additional questions, walk you through the estimated price for windows of either vinyl or wood materials, and help you determine the perfect installation date for your needs.
It’s no secret that replacing your windows is a financial investment. But the reality is, it pays dividends right away by increasing the value of your home. From energy efficiency to curb appeal, check out these five reasons you should consider replacing your windows. Read more
In most cases, it’s fairly obvious when a home’s windows have lived their lives and are no longer performing the function they were designed to do. Things like sashes no longer operating, drafts and water penetration are obvious indicators that it’s time to replace a window.
Other things, like improper installation, improper trim on the siding of a home, or even the wrong type of window can be troublesome but easily overlooked to the untrained eye. The absolute best thing a homeowner can do is to contact a qualified and experienced company that can send someone to the home to get an accurate assessment of the situation.
There is no cookie answer or approach to dealing with windows. Every home can have its different set of circumstances. The best approach is to start with a reputable company that will not only be able to assess the situation for the homeowner, but also offer solutions for improvement.