If you have leaky windows that never seal or close properly, it may be time for replacement. This can be frustrating and a safety concern for your family.
Fortunately, there are many benefits to replacing your windows. These include improved energy efficiency, heightened curb appeal, and increased property value.
Replacement windows are a great way to save energy and reduce your utility bills. In fact, they can cut your annual heating and cooling costs by as much as 12 percent, which can be a significant financial benefit.
Replacing windows with new energy-efficient models is a big investment, but you can reap the rewards both immediately and over time. It’s worth the money to reduce your environmental impact and improve the resale value of your home.
In terms of performance, the NFRC label breaks down window energy performance based on a number of factors, such as U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SGHC), visible transmittance, air leakage, and condensation resistance. If you’re considering replacing your old windows, look for a window that has earned an ENERGY STAR certification.
Often, the lower the U-factor and the lower the SGHC, the more efficient your window is. This is especially true for single-pane windows.
Many modern windows feature double and triple panes that help insulate your home and maintain comfortable temperatures. They also include Low-E coatings that lower the SHGC, a measure of how much the sun’s rays penetrate the glass.
Another advantage of modern windows is that they’re usually insulated with argon gas, which helps keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This insulation also reduces drafts, which means you’ll feel more comfortable and reduce your heating and cooling costs.
Additionally, the insulating properties of these newer windows can make your home less susceptible to moisture buildup, which is particularly important in hot climates where condensation can cause mold and mildew problems. If your current windows are causing condensation, you may want to consider replacing them with sliding alternatives that provide better ventilation and prevent water buildup.
Replacement windows are a good choice for any homeowner. Not only are they affordable, but they’re also easy to install and can significantly reduce your monthly energy bill. They can also boost your home’s curb appeal, which will increase its resale value.
When it comes to replacement windows, you want to make sure that they will be durable for years to come. They should be able to withstand the harshest weather conditions and still look good, which means that they have to meet certain standards and building codes.
There are a few things that you can do to ensure that your new windows are going to be durable for a long time. These include using high-quality materials, taking care of them properly, and performing regular maintenance.
If you use low-quality materials, you can expect to need to replace them sooner than if you used quality materials. This is because low-quality materials will deteriorate much faster than higher-quality ones.
Another thing that can impact durability is how often you use them. If you open and close them several times a day, they are going to experience a lot of wear and tear over the years. It is also a good idea to inspect them regularly for any signs of damage, like cracks and chips, so that you can take care of them right away.
You can also check the quality of the window’s hardware. The quality of the hardware can have a direct effect on the durability of the window. This is because a window that has parts made from solid metal is going to have a longer life than one that uses cheaper hardware.
Finally, you can check for any problems with the weatherstripping that is attached to your windows. This is because the weatherstripping can eventually become brittle or break, and this is a big sign that you should consider replacing it.
