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If you're like most people, you've probably casually considered putting new windows in your house. You've likely realized they would be beneficial but put off the project because it doesn't seem like a good time to have the work going on. 

If you know you will replace your windows this spring, why not get started so you can begin enjoying the new windows? You'll see an immediate benefit on a daily basis with their ease of use, and you'll soon see the benefits of decreased power bills and wonder why you had even put it off so long.

While this is probably the last thing on your mind, every home eventually needs new windows installed. They may get broken, or the frames may become damaged. It might be as simple as you come to realize they aren't as beautiful as they once were and decide to start replacing them a few at a time each year so you don't get to the point of having to replace them all at once. 

Whether they aren't functioning properly or don't open and close smoothly while latching securely, you may just be tired of the frustration and shop for new windows. 

Here's your quick guide to the basics of window replacement!

Removing Old Windows

New windows can be exciting as they improve the value of your home. When they work right, you'll find yourself using them more often, saving on cooling costs in the summer and heating bills in the winter. You may have never noticed how bad your windows have become, but when you get new ones that work properly, you immediately see a difference.

Obviously, the replacement process starts with removing the old windows. The job is not terribly difficult for an experienced contractor but does require knowledge and experience. 

If the windows are old enough to need replacement, they probably weren't installed the same way as modern techniques have developed. There may be old paint or glue behind the frame; shims may have rotted to leave dirt or become stuck over time. 

A professional understands how to deal with these issues and safely remove the window from the wall.

Installing New Windows 

Installing new windows doesn't take much time either, assuming an experienced professional proficient with the process is in charge. 

The inside of the framing needs to be cleaned up. Shims are aligned to ensure the window is straight, square, level, and plumb. A bead of silicone caulking is applied to ensure a seal between the window frame and wall frame, and then it is covered with interior and exterior molding to achieve the finished look. 

Depending on how handy you are, it may or may not sound like a complicated job, but knowledge of the nuances is important for a professional contractor to do the job right the first time.

When & Why Conduct Window Replacement?

Obviously, if the glass is accidentally broken, the window needs immediate repair, but if it's an older window, it may be a good time to go ahead and upgrade it. 

If it's been painted shut over time, you may want a functioning window, or if the hardware and latches don't work, you may want to replace a window for security reasons. 

It's a common plan to upgrade a house with new windows by starting with the front and replacing a few windows each year, although if it's an investment property rather than a permanent home, you may not be able to use such a plan. 

The final determination is that it's time to consider hiring a professional window contractor if you have older windows that no longer function.

Older Windows With Decreased Function

Perhaps the most common reason for window replacement is when older windows simply no longer function properly. Nobody wants to have to pry a window open, use a stick to prop it up so it will stay open, or spend ten minutes banging on it to get it securely closed and locked. 

Usually, when a window reaches this point, the frame doesn't look very nice either; it has either been damaged or painted so many times, the contours of the woodwork are no longer visible, or both.

Investment Homes

New windows are a perfect project for investment homes. Windows are relatively inexpensive in the scheme of things while adding both value and curb appeal to the house. After the rest of the work that goes into fixing the house up, windows give it the final touch and are a feature the potential buyer or renter will notice and appreciate. 

If you plan to sell the house, the windows will pay for themselves in the form of justifying a higher asking price. If you intend to keep the house and rent it out, not only will the windows help the home's appeal so it rents quicker, but the happy tenants will stay longer, resulting in less downtime between renters.

Changing Styles & Sizes

Another reason to replace windows is to change the style or size of the windows. Glass block windows are perfect for the bathroom as they allow light in while maintaining your privacy. 

Bay windows provide a better view of the outdoors, along with an additional seating area. 

Size can be changed by rebuilding the framework within the wall to accommodate a floor-to-ceiling window or a wider window, according to what suits your preferences and the style of the room.

You’re Feeling a Draft 

Even the highest quality windows and installation can't hold up to the test of time, and if you've tried to get comfortable next to a draft or felt a chill by the windows, you know how uncomfortable this is. 

Aside from the discomfort, any leaks will create spikes in your energy bills and force your HVAC unit to work much harder than it should, leading to premature breakdowns and repairs.

Drafts happen for various reasons and could be anything from wear and tear to water damage. Whatever the case, investing in new windows is the perfect solution to reduce your monthly energy cost and boost your return on investment.

The Glass is Fogging Between the Panes 

Windows only have a certain lifespan, and while they're built to withstand all types of weather, once the seals begin to break down, they can only hold up for so long, and you'll start finding fogging between the panes. 

While this is unsightly to look at, beyond that, the biggest concern is that the seals are failing. This means not only will your efficiency levels go down, but eventually, the windows can collapse, warp, and crack. 

There are some situations where a repair can be completed, but it will depend on the windows' age, how they are operating, and if it's even a cost-effective option; otherwise, buying replacements may be the best long-term solution.

Your Twin Cities Window Replacement Experts 

There are plenty of viable reasons to replace windows, and the longer you put it off, the longer you have to deal with the old windows. Remember: If price is an issue, you can finance it to some degree by having a few windows replaced now and more replaced next year, continuing to replace them as you can afford it until you have all new windows. 

Whether your reasons for replacement are cosmetic or functional, the contractors at Window World Twin Cities are top-rated providers, and we would love to help you with your next project. 

To get started, give our office a call at 651-770-5570 or reach out to us online, and our team will get back to you shortly!