What Is The Best Way To Replace Old Windows?

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Before you replace your old windows, make sure you explore your options. Cheap windows are not always the best solution.

House with beautiful replacement windows.

The best way to replace your old windows is with premium energy-efficient ones. Window replacement is much more than out with the old and in with the new. If you have concerns about your budget, energy efficiency should be your number one priority. When looking for new windows, think about the long-term impact of your choice. A lower price tag may be tempting. But it does not guarantee that you save money on your purchase. 

 

The quality of your window (and the window installation) significantly impacts how much energy your home uses. It also affects how well it insulates from heat and cold. If you want to ensure that you get an energy-efficient window with first-rate performance—not just something cheap and pretty—you must know what questions to ask before you buy new windows. We will go over a few in the sections below.

 

Free download. Window buying guide for homeowners.

What is the window’s energy efficiency rating?

If you need to replace old windows and want to save money, invest in windows with good energy performance. Cheap windows may be less expensive up front. But they have poor insulation, and cost you a lot of money over time. Energy-effic

ient windows can significantly reduce your heating and cooling bills. By reducing the heat that escapes in the winter and the heat that enters in the summer, you can save money on your energy bills throughout the year.

 

Since energy efficient windows reduce drafts and cold spots, they also help make your home more comfortable. You will be nice and cozy in the winter while your neighbors freeze. High-quality glass also prevents unwanted heat gain without making your home dark and depressing. So you can let in the natural light without boiling up in the summer sun.

 

What type of glass is in the window?

 

Most homes in New York and New Jersey have double-pane windows. But it is not just how many panes of glass your windows have that matters. How much light the windows let in, versus how well they withstand heat impacts the overall cost of your window replacement.

 

Windows with Low-E coatings on the glass help control unwanted heat loss (and gain!) to some degree. But you should also make sure the insulation between the panes is up to snuff, as well as how well the glass is sealed between the window frame.

 

Do fewer panes of glass mean lower heating and cooling bills?

Most people see buying single-pane windows as an inexpensive way to replace your windows on a budget. But they do not keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.  Single-paned windows require more energy than double-paned ones because they do not insulate well. That’s bad news for homeowners in NJ and NY!

 

With the crazy seasonal weather, you need a window that can sustain in extreme conditions. The lack of insulation results in more heat transfer through the glass itself.  It also causes higher convective heat loss through ventilation in the frames. Windows and Doors by The Men With Tools solves this problem with our high-efficiency ThermaLast windows. Everything from the glass to the frames and even how we install them in your home can save you up to 50% on your energy bill. We have the most energy-efficient double-pane windows you’ll find anywhere. 

 

What is the frame made of?

 

The material of your window’s frame makes a big difference in how much the window costs you. Wood windows are beautiful. But they are not energy efficient and cost a lot to maintain.

Many window manufacturers offer aluminum-clad wood frames to help compensate for this. But aluminum is prone to wear and tear like corrosion, scratching, and fading. So you will still be coming out of pocket to maintain your windows regardless.

 

Vinyl windows are maintenance-free. They are durable, reliable, and energy efficient. We even inject our windows with a high quality insulation to really up the ante of your energy savings.

Plus, we can give our vinyl windows the appearance of wood grain. So if aesthetic matters to you, we’ve got you covered!

 

A chart comparing vinyl, aluminum, and wood windows

 

How much should we budget for replacing 20 windows in our home?

 

Most homes have at least one window that needs to be replaced. But, if you can replace all the windows in your home you can maximize the return on your investment. Your budget ultimately depends on your unique situation. The style of windows that you choose also come into play. Twenty windows are a lot! You may not think it is worth it at first, but we highly recommend replacing as many windows as possible. When you replace old windows with energy efficient ones, you get some energy efficiency with each installation. To experience the full benefits of energy efficient window replacement immediately, you need to replace all your windows at once.

 

It will save you a lot of money over time, too. The first thing you should do is talk to your contractor about your budget. 

 

Your budget can change depending on the service you choose. It’s best to get an idea of what your contractor can offer you.

 

Ask about their warranty. If there isn’t one, or if it’s not very good, look elsewhere. It would be more worth it for you to spend a bit of extra money to invest in something that will last you a lifetime, than to buy something cheap that you will need to replace in a few years. Our worry-free guarantee covers you for life, no matter what.

 

Ask about the quality of the window installation. If the installer cuts corners, this may lead to problems down the line (like drafts, defective parts, or even property damage ). You’ll also want new windows that are properly sealed. We use high-grade waterproof silicone.

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Replace Your Old Windows Today

 

It’s important to remember that when it comes to window replacement, there are lots of options and factors that can affect your decision. If you’re in the early stages of planning a renovation project, take time to think about what will work best for your home. We’re always happy to help you make the right decision for your needs.

 

Contact us today for a free consultation. Our experts will tell you everything you need to know.