Replace windows to improve efficiency, lower utility costs, and enhance a home’s curb appeal. Choose from a wide range of frame styles, materials and colors.
Unlike new-construction windows, Replacement Windows MA are installed in existing frames without altering exterior trims or siding. This can be an advantage for homeowners who have carefully curated their homes’ exterior design.
When it comes to replacement windows, many details go into choosing the best fit for your home. Style, color, shape, type and frame material are all important factors in the final product—and those choices can have big impacts on your energy bills and maintenance requirements over time.
Window frames have a long list of benefits beyond their structural integrity. Modern frames reduce air infiltration, keep moisture out and can slash heating and cooling costs. They also come in a wide range of styles, colors and materials that rival fine cabinetry for eye appeal.
Homeowners have four different options for framing their windows—aluminum, vinyl, wood and composite. Each has its own strengths, but the choice comes down to how you want your new windows to look and the durability and performance characteristics you’re looking for.
Aluminum windows are strong and light-weight, making them an excellent option for contemporary homes or older buildings with a modern or minimalist style. They won’t warp or bend, and the sleek finish is easy to clean and maintain. Vinyl is the most popular option for new and replacement windows, thanks to its fade-resistant finish and easy maintenance. It’s available in a wide range of colors and can be custom-colored to match your siding or trim.
Wood windows are a good choice for old-style houses or those that have a more traditional feel. They provide a warm, cozy ambiance and are easy to customize with paint or stain. They’re an efficient insulator and can last over 50 years when well-maintained. Wood is expensive, but its longevity makes it a smart investment in your home.
Lastly, composite windows combine the durability of aluminum with the beauty of wood. They’re usually made from Ultrex, which means they can be painted to match your interior decor and exterior siding. Owens Corning offers a line of composite windows called Generations, while Marvin manufactures a series known as Integrity.
Another way homeowners choose the frame material for their new windows is by deciding on full-replacement or insert replacement. With sash-replacement kits, installers fasten new jamb liners to the existing wood frames and slip in a new window sash. They are a good choice for replacing old, leaky double-hung windows or single-hung windows. In most cases, the new window sash slides into place with little to no modification of the original frame opening. In contrast, full-replacement windows require the original window to be removed and replaced.
Installation
If you’re looking to replace the windows in your home, you have a few different options. First, you will need to decide on the style of window that you want. You can choose from a number of operational styles including single or double-hung windows, sliding windows, bay and bow windows, casement windows, awning windows, and picture windows. You will also need to decide on the material of the frame and trim. Windows are available in a variety of materials including vinyl, aluminum and wood or clad wood frames. Prices vary depending on the material and style of window you select.
Once you have decided on the style and material of your new windows, it’s time to consider the installation process. While replacement windows are generally less expensive than new construction windows, they must be installed correctly to achieve proper energy efficiency and performance. It is recommended that you hire a professional to install your new windows to avoid any issues with improper installation.
There are two main types of replacement windows: insert replacement windows and full-frame replacement windows. Insert replacement windows are installed inside of the existing window frame and are usually a more cost-effective option than full-frame replacement windows. However, they should only be used if the existing window frames are structurally sound and you’re happy with the size, shape and operating style of the existing window.
Before choosing an insert window replacement, you should consult with your window professional to ensure that the existing frame is structurally sound and that the sash is in good condition. If the sash is not in good condition, it may be difficult to open and close the window. In addition, if the frame is warped or deteriorated, it may not provide adequate support for the new sash.
Another consideration when considering an insert replacement is whether or not the building’s exterior trim will need to be removed. If the trim needs to be removed, it will increase the overall project cost. If the existing trim is in good shape, it can be re-used with the new window.
Glass
A new window can make your home more beautiful and functional. It may also increase its curb appeal and boost your home’s resale value. New windows also offer increased energy efficiency and improved noise control. They’re easy to open, close and clean. You can even add between-the-glass blinds or grilles to further customize your new window.
The cost of a replacement window can vary depending on the type of glass used, as well as the size and style of the window. However, the average replacement window price is around $300.
During their home remodel, Tom and Maddy decided to replace the old double-pane windows in their 1940s house with new double-hung windows. They were a bit worried about the costs of replacing their windows, but they wanted to give their home an updated look and improved energy efficiency.
After researching several different companies and products, the couple decided to purchase vinyl double-hung windows from Pella. They found that these windows were reasonably priced and would fit the look of their home. They were also impressed with the warranty and support that came with their new windows.
While the windows are a big investment, they will pay for themselves in terms of energy savings and increased resale value. They are more energy efficient than the single-pane windows that were originally in their home, and they provide a better view of the outside world. In addition, the new windows will help to improve the sound level in their home and keep it cooler.
In order to install the new windows, the contractors removed the old sash and rails from the existing frame openings. They then sanded and primered the sill and jambs of the frame. Next, they filled the sash-weight pockets in the side jambs with elastomeric caulk. They then screwed the insert replacement windows into place using a predrilled hole near each end and in the center of the head jamb.
The final step was to sand and finish the new interior wood trim, which included the window stops. They also sanded and repainted the exterior casings and blind stops to match the color of the new windows. Once the job was complete, Maddy and Tom were happy with their new double-hung windows. They were able to achieve the look they had desired, and they were more comfortable in their home.
Warranty
When buying replacement windows it is important to consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. This will vary from company to company and can be confusing. A seasoned window contractor can explain these details so you understand what’s covered and not, allowing you to budget appropriately.
Lifetime warranties are popular with homeowners and usually cover the aesthetic and functional parts of the windows for a predetermined period. These are often transferable to the next owner of your home. There are also limited lifetime warranties that only offer coverage on certain parts of the window or may not include labor costs for repairs. These warranties usually have more fine print than you can read, so be careful!
Prorated warranties, which cover a declining percentage of the cost of replacing the window over time, are also common and can be expensive in the long run. These typically don’t cover the labor cost for replacement or repair, which can add up quickly. Some companies also have double-life warranties that offer a lifetime of covering the replacement parts but not the labor for an extended period.
Another factor to consider is whether or not the warranty covers the installation of the replacement windows. Some companies charge a fee for this service, so it is important to know what you’re getting into before signing off on your purchase!
Other factors that can affect a window’s warranty include whether or not it is installed in an exposed area, such as a bay window. Exposure to the elements, especially salty air, can cause paint finishes and silicone seals to fail sooner than other environments. This can void your warranty, so be sure to keep up with your maintenance to avoid these issues.
The most important consideration when considering a window’s warranty is the length of time you plan on owning your home. Some manufacturers only offer a lifetime warranty on the products if you live in the same home for the entire duration of their life, while others only offer this protection if you’re the first homeowner to own your home.
