Ensure your Window Replacement Foxboro MA is square by measuring diagonally across the frame from corner to corner. Also, use a hammer and flat bar to remove the flashing, trim, and brick molding, which may be reused.
Open the weight pockets and remove the metal weights and cords; these can be recycled. Then, vacuum the rough opening and fill any voids with loose fiberglass insulation or low-expansion foam.
Windows account for about 25%-30% of the average home’s heat loss and energy usage. With escalating energy costs, window replacements are one of the best investments homeowners can make to reduce heating and cooling costs. Many window companies claim homeowners can recoup the cost of new energy-efficient windows in about seven years through savings on their energy bills. However, these claims are based on unrealistic assumptions and energy modeling, and are not necessarily indicative of real-life performance.
Energy efficient windows are made with insulated frames and low-emissivity glass to reduce the transfer of heat between indoors and outdoors. This helps to keep heat in during the winter and out during summer, saving energy by reducing the work your heating and air conditioning system must do to maintain a comfortable temperature.
When choosing new windows for your home, look for the Energy Star label and consider a variety of styles, sizes, shapes, colors and features to find the perfect fit for your design preferences and energy efficiency goals. Whether you’re installing in new construction or replacing existing windows, there are two types of replacement windows to choose from: full frame replacement windows and insert windows (also called pocket replacement windows). While both offer energy efficiency benefits, the type of window you install will impact how well it performs.
During window installation, professional installers ensure that the gap between the old and new windows is properly sealed and caulked to prevent drafts and energy leaks. They also check that the window fits correctly in its space and that it is level and plumb to prevent any unnecessary movement that could impact energy efficiency.
When replacing your windows, opt for double-pane or triple-pane windows that are insulated and have low-emissivity coatings. This will provide the greatest energy-efficiency and comfort. You can also save by installing windows that are ENERGY STAR qualified and stagger the project over several years to take advantage of a 30% tax credit, which is currently available through 2032.
While energy-efficient windows are a smart investment, homeowners would be wise to invest their money first in attic insulation and weatherstripping, which can achieve far more significant results than installing new windows. Plus, more heat enters and escapes through attic hatches, recessed light fixtures and fireplaces than through the windows, which make up only a small fraction of your total wall area.
Longevity
Windows are an important feature of your home, adding curb appeal and improving energy performance. However, like any home component, windows do not last forever. Eventually, they will wear out or break down, leading to air and water leaks, mold, wood rot and other issues. Watching for signs of deterioration can help you decide when it’s time to upgrade your windows.
The longevity of your replacement windows depends on a number of factors, including their material and proper installation. Poor installation can lead to a lack of insulation and other problems. In fact, it’s estimated that over 30 percent of a home’s heated and cooled air can leak out through inefficient windows.
Window frames also have a direct impact on the lifespan of your new windows. Vinyl windows, for example, can last decades when properly installed and maintained. They are also available in a variety of colors to match any home design. On the other hand, wood frames may need to be repainted and resealed regularly to prevent rusting and damage.
Composite frames are another option for those looking for a long-lasting frame. They are often made from a mix of materials, such as fiberglass and wood, making them both energy-efficient and durable. Fiberglass is particularly strong and can resist a range of temperatures. However, composite frames tend to be more expensive than vinyl and wood.
Another factor that impacts the lifespan of your windows is the climate in which you live. High humidity and extreme weather conditions can cause your windows to deteriorate more quickly than in areas with milder temperatures.
A final consideration is the age of your existing windows. If your windows are more than 20 years old, they may be in need of replacement. Older windows are more likely to develop leaks, which can result in water and mold damage as well as higher energy bills.
In addition, if your home is located in a historic district or if the existing windows are part of a landmark structure, you may need to get permission from the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) before installing new replacement windows. In these cases, it is essential that you choose windows that are compatible with the original architectural style of your home.
Style
There is a vast array of window styles available today. These options, along with modern engineering and fabrication techniques, have greatly improved the durability and energy efficiency of windows. In fact, replacing old windows with new ones can almost always help homeowners improve the comfort of their homes while reducing heating and cooling costs.
Homeowners should consider replacement windows when their current windows are damaged or in poor condition. Especially in older homes, single-pane glass or poorly fitting frames and sashes can contribute to water leaks, humidity problems and insect infestations. In addition, cracked windowpanes and rotting frames, sills or sashes can compromise the overall integrity of a house.
In many cases, window replacement can be done without affecting the existing exterior trim or interior wall surfaces of a home. This is known as insert window replacement, also called frame-in-frame installation. This style of installation can be a great way to preserve the original style and architectural character of a house or to accommodate special design features such as arches, circles, hexagons or octagons.
Insert windows can be installed in place of existing window sashes, operating hardware and covers. However, if the existing frame, trim and siding are in poor condition, it may be necessary to use full-frame replacement, or “new construction” windows. These types of replacement windows require removal of the old sash, frame and trim and are best suited for brand-new construction or adding rooms to a new or existing home.
Some of the most common replacement windows are single hung, double hung or casement windows. These are easy to install and work well in most homes. Block frame windows are another option. These windows don’t have a nail fin or brick mold and fit directly into the existing window opening. They’re a good choice for vinyl or brick construction as they easily match the look of those materials.
Finally, there are specialty windows that can be custom-ordered to meet the needs of a particular home or to complement a specific style. These include bay and bow windows, garden windows, awning and casement windows. Some of these windows can take up to 12 weeks to be delivered after the order is placed, but most are in stock and can be installed relatively quickly.
Warranty
When looking for a window replacement company, be sure to ask plenty of questions about their products and warranties. Any reputable company should be more than happy to answer your questions in an honest and transparent manner. If a company does not seem to have the answers you need, it may be time to look elsewhere.
A good window warranty should cover each component of the windows. This includes the frame, glass, and hardware. It should also include installation and labor. It should also be transferable if you decide to sell your home. If your window upgrades add value to your home, this feature could be especially valuable.
Different companies have different warranties. You should look for a manufacturer-backed, limited lifetime warranty or double lifetime warranty. These types of warranties typically offer the most robust coverage. They often include a transferable warranty that can be transferred to the next homeowner. However, these warranties usually have stipulations, such as only covering a fraction of the cost for non-original owners.
You should also look for a warranty that covers the glass and hardware. This is particularly important for energy-efficient windows that use inert gases to keep air in and heat out. These gases deplete over time, so a warranty that covers this is important. A reputable window company should be able to tell you how quickly these gases are expected to deplete.
Some companies may also offer their own workmanship warranty in addition to the manufacturers’ warranty. This can provide extra peace of mind that you’re working with a reputable and knowledgeable window company. This is especially true if the installer has any extra credentials from the manufacturer, such as being a master or elite installer.
In addition to looking at the length of the warranty, you should also read through the terms and conditions carefully. It is important to understand what a “lifetime” warranty actually means. Some manufacturers will only guarantee the quality of certain parts for a specified period of time, while others will include normal wear-and-tear in the definition of lifetime.