What Factors Influence the Price of Replacement Windows?
Replacing your windows is a good way to protect the value of your home. However, there are a lot of things to consider when it comes to choosing your replacement windows. For example, the cost will depend on how old your home is, what kind of window you’re replacing, and how your window is installed. But, once you get a window replacement, it can save you in the long run on energy and heating bills.
Here are the 5 factors that influence the price of replacement windows:
1. Type or Replacement
Another factor that impacts the cost of window replacement is the kind of replacement required for the replacement project. The condition of the existing window will also contribute to the convenience or otherwise of the required procedure. If the installation required is a full-frame replacement or a window insert, the cost of installation will differ as the level of work involved is more than the other. This factor directly affects the cost of labor.
2. Hardware
The cost to install a replacement window can also be affected by the type and amount of window hardware used in making the window. The locks, sashes, casement hardware, screen and storm, transom, etc. used in designing a window will contribute to cost replacing windows.
3. Aesthetics
The aesthetics of a window, comprising its style, design, materials, and finish, will contribute to its physical appearance. It is important to state that attractive windows will cost more than simple designs. And if you are purchasing three or more of that kind of windows, it can have a significant impact on the overall cost of window replacement.
4. Window Company
It is essential to search for different window companies and compare their prices when you want to undertake a window replacement project. Some window companies will charge more based on their popularity, experience, and the number of years in the industry. You should look around and get the best value for your money at affordable prices.
5. Mode of Purchase
Although you can make your findings online when you want to purchase replacement windows, you should visit the physical warehouse or office of the window company you want to purchase from. You would be given lower prices based on your bargaining strength. The cost of window replacement will be lower when you go to the physical shop compared to when you ordered online.
5 Benefits of Windows and Doors Replacement
Did you know approximately 70% of a home’s energy loss occurs in windows and doors? Windows and doors are an important component of your home that drastically affects your comfort and energy bills.
Here are the 5 benefits of windows and doors replacement:
1. Light Control
New replacement windows are designed in different ways. If you wish to control the amount of light that enters a particular room, you only have to purchase photochromic windows. You would be able to regulate natural light in your house. You can also request custom-made windows that meet your needs or room requirements.
2. Better View
Besides, creating a dramatic improvement in the beauty of the home, you can have a better view from inside the house. You will be able to see through without any obstruction or a film of dirt on the window. Also, you can choose a design that will allow you to see outside. Then you can sit and relax by the window.
3. Increased Home Value
Replacing windows and doors is a home improvement that increases the value of a home. If you are thinking of selling your home, replacing the windows and doors is a wise investment that guarantees a higher return on investment. Get the best value possible for your home.
4. Reduces Fading
You will be able to stop the ultraviolet rays from entering the house because the new windows are efficient and enhanced against the harmful UV-rays. Consequently, your belongings will not be faded any longer.
5. Savings on HVAC Maintenance
With a draft getting inside the house, the home becomes less energy-efficient. The heater and air conditioner in the house will be working excessively and harder to heat or cool the house. Over time, the HVAC system will require frequent and costly repairs and maintenance. However, when you replace your windows and doors, the energy efficiency of your home will increase. As a result, your HVAC system will work less, and you will be able to save money on repairs and maintenance.
You can take advantage of the benefits stated above by replacing your windows and doors. However, you need to choose the right ones for your home to have a pleasant experience. If you cannot decide on the perfect windows and doors for your home, contact a contractor to assist you. Know that replacing your windows and doors is a viable project and investment with a high return on investment.
5 Window Maintenance Tips
Before going into details about you can maintain your windows, it is good to know what benefits you stand to gain from maintaining your windows regularly. Here are the benefits of regular window maintenance.
Longevity
Maintaining your new windows regularly will keep them in top functional and aesthetic conditions. All the moving parts will be easy to operate due to regular maintenance, and damaged parts will be repaired. As a result, your windows will last for a long time, longer than if you did not maintain them.
Reduction in Energy Bills
Another benefit you get from regular window maintenance is low energy bills. By keeping your windows in the proper condition, you would be able to prevent draft, plug holes, and repair damaged seals. As a result, your windows will be energy-efficient, which will cause your heating and cooling requirements to be low with a resultant reduction in energy bills.
Enhanced Security
Poorly-maintained windows are usually the targets of burglars because they can gain entry to the house through windows that are in a bad state. Consequently, when you carry out regular maintenance on your windows, they will be sturdy, reliable, and challenging to break down by burglars. Hence, you and your property will be safe.
Savings
Regular windows maintenance help to keep your windows in a good state. Although window replacement or replacement windows can be included in the maintenance process, it will not be all the windows that will require replacement except for facelift purposes. As a result, you get to save money you could have unavoidably spent on changing your windows.
Here are the 5 window maintenance tips:
1. Rot Removal
Another tip for regular window maintenance is to remove any type of rot on your windows. This is important to stop the spreading of the rot to other parts. After scraping rotten parts, fill the spot with Epoxy putty for an aesthetic finish.
2. Vacuum Window Screens
As part of your regular window maintenance tips, you should make sure that you clean the window screens in your house. Remove the window screens and take them outside. Lay them flat on the floor and vacuum off the dirt on the screens. After that, pour soapy water on the screen to remove dust or stain on them before replacing them to your windows.
3. Fumigate the House
If you have wooden windows in your home, you need to fumigate your surroundings to get rid of ants and termites that may crawl up to the windows and damage the frames and windows. Besides, disinfecting your home will also help to control insects and pests in your home.
4. Installation of Storm Windows
To keep your windows in their best condition, you can install storm windows to protect them against harsh weather conditions like strong winds and storms. Storm windows help to improve the energy efficiency of your home. If you are tight on budget, storm windows are the perfect alternatives for you.
5. New Windows
If the existing windows in your home have entirely worn out, you should consider installing new windows to keep your home energy-efficient. New windows offer several benefits that will give you value for money spent.
Which Windows to Choose for your Unique Home?
There is an extensive collection of windows from which you can choose for your home. These windows come in a wide array of designs, materials, frames, and energy efficiency. If you want to select the perfect window replacement for your home, consider the variety of windows discussed below.
1. Casement Windows
These are hinged windows that are operated by turning a crank in its operating mechanism. They can be hinged on the right or left, and they open outward. When you are thinking about window replacement for your kitchen, casement windows are your best choice.
2. Double-Hung Windows
The main feature of the double-hung window is the presence of two sashes that slide vertically up and down in the frame. These windows can open from the bottom or top, but they remain inside the frame without protruding to either the interior or exterior of the house.
3. Awning Windows
Awning windows are hinged at the top, but they open outward to let air into the house unhindered. They are versatile windows that can be installed below, above, or beside operating or stationary windows for more ventilation within the home. They are suitable for the living room and the kitchen.
4. Picture Windows
This type of window is both large and stationary. They provide maximum views of the outdoors and let the most light in the interior of the house. They are best suited for the room or place when airflow is not necessary because picture windows do not open.
5. Slider Windows
These windows glide along a track. They have at least one operating window that slides horizontally past or over the other window. They are not sealed as casement windows. They are mostly used for egress windows in the basement. They have large openings and are easy to operate.
6. Stationary Windows
Like their name, stationary windows do not open. They can be customized to fit in any shape or angle. They are used in modern or contemporary style houses in addition to other operating windows. They are used to provide natural lighting for areas that are dark in the home.
7. Jalousie Windows
These are perfect for areas with warm weather and parts of the home that do not require air conditioning. They are inexpensive and made up of glass slats inserted in metal clips rusty can be operated in unison, like lovers. Jalousies allow maximum airflow but provide narrow views. In addition, they are not as secure as other standard types of windows.
Riverbend Windows & Doors
We have the best quality windows at Riverbend, Inc. Browse through our inventory for stylish, durable and eco-friendly windows in London.
Window Retrofit versus Replacement
If the windows in your home are of the older version, you may have been noticing air leaks, difficulty operating, frost build-up on the inside during cold. It may be the right time to replace your windows with modern and energy-efficient replacement windows. Although it seems an easy decision to make, you have to consider how those windows will be installed. However, you need to decide if you red window retrofit or complete window replacement.
What Is a Window Retrofit?
Window retrofit is the process of enhancing the existing windows with new, improved features for better performance. With a window retrofit, you get to replace only the sash of the windows. This is a cost-efficient procedure that improves the looks and quality of your windows.
When Do You Choose a Window Retrofit?
The conditions of your existing windows will determine if a retrofit is best or you should go for a full replacement. To decide that, hire a professional to assess your windows. Meanwhile, here are the conditions or factors that make a window retrofit the perfect choice for you.
a. Perfect Frame and Trim
If your window frames and trims are in the right conditions, then retrofit is the better option to go for. You would be able to save up on some money and enhance the energy efficiency of your home.
Retrofit is, also referred to as an insert or cash-only replacement. It is best suited for older homes where homeowners want to preserve the original look and historical value of their houses. As long as the frame and trim are in perfect condition, retrofit is the best choice.
b. Glass Replacement
If your existing windows only require glass replacement to become more energy-efficient and also lower your budget. Retrofit is recommended for homes with undamaged frames, trims, and sashes but only have a low-quality glass. You can take advantage of high-quality glass on the market.
When to Choose a full Window Replacement?
You, unavoidably, have to choose a full window replacement when the following factors are present:
a. Damaged Frames
If the existing windows have damaged, decayed, or rotten frame, complete window replacement is the best choice. Full replacement of windows with damaged frames will prevent the spread of mould and ensure better energy efficiency.
b. Need for Energy Efficiency
If you need to upgrade the efficiency of your home to cut down on your energy bills, full window replacement is the way to go. Replacement windows with enhanced materials have a longer lifespan and improved quality. You would benefit immensely from the energy efficiency of upgraded top-notch replacement windows on the market
c. Upgraded Style
Fill window replacement is best for you when you want to give a new look to your home. If you want to increase the curb of your home, window replacement is one of the procedures involved. Choose perfect windows considering design, trim, colour, corner blocks, and PVC jam extensions.
Riverbend Windows & Doors
We have the best quality windows at Riverbend, Inc. Browse through our inventory for stylish, durable and eco-friendly windows in London.
What Type of Window Frame is Best?
Frames are equally important as the windows and doors because they determine the integrity and longevity of windows and doors. Window frames come in different materials, which have their peculiar features, strengths, and weaknesses. To learn about the best type of window frame, read this write-up further.
1. Wood
Window frames that are made from wood are aesthetically appealing and are efficient insulators. They help to make the room energy-efficient by resisting the heat outside and keep the cool inside and vice versa depending on the prevalent temperatures inside and outside the room. However, wood is prone to wear and tear in high humid and rainy regions. You can increase the longevity of the wooden window frame with adequate maintenance. Note that wood contracts and expands due to weather; therefore, it will require sanding, painting, and sealing.
2. Wood-cladded
Wood-cladded frames are a blend of wood and other materials. Also, it involves the insulation of wood and other materials with the durability of other materials to make frames for windows and doors. Wood-cladded frames are made by using low maintenance and strong material for the exterior of the frame and using wood for the interior. This blend will produce low maintenance frames with high insulation features. Meanwhile, wood-cladded frames should be installed properly to ensure longevity and prevention of water damage to the wooded interior that results from shoddy workmanship.
3. Aluminum
Aluminum frames are solid and durable; however, they lack in insulation value. Aluminum can withstand rain and humidity but cannot keep heat or cold out; they are not energy-efficient. If you need an affordable, durable, and low maintenance frame for windows and doors, aluminum is the perfect material for you.
4. Composite
Composite frames are made from wood byproducts and plastic. They have a similar visual appearance to wood frames and also perform excellently like wood frames. They are low maintenance and efficient insulators. They perform better in terms of thermal resistance of wood. The plastic component of composite frames fit windows and doors makes them handle moisture well.
5. Vinyl
Vinyl frames are strong, affordable, and provide a high level of insulation. Vinyl frames are appealing but can become warped in hotter climates because they are made from PVC.
6. Fiberglass
Frames made for windows and doors using fiberglass are durable and provide amazing thermal resistance. They are resistant to pollutants and will not warp as a result of heat or moisture. The only downside of fiberglass is cost; fiberglass frames are more expensive than other materials.
Riverbend Windows & Doors
We have the best quality windows at Riverbend, Inc. Browse through our inventory for stylish, durable and eco-friendly windows in London.
How Are Windows Rated for Efficiency?
The days of installing windows and doors as merely fixtures have long gone. In the wake of energy conservation and cost reduction, there is a need to install windows and doors that fit perfectly into these goals.
Modern windows and doors are made to reduce heat loss and retain heat gain from the sun during the winter and reduce heat gain in the summer. Windows and doors are constructed in different ways to meet diverse levels of energy need within the home.
Windows and doors are made according to different levels of energy efficiency, and this determines their prices. Meanwhile, energy-efficient windows and doors, irrespective of their prices, help to save the cost of energy, which pays off over time for the cost of their purchase.
How Windows and Doors Are Rated for Efficiency
The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is the non-profit body that certifies the energy efficiency of windows and doors. As a result, windows and doors have the Energy Star label explaining their levels of energy efficiency. Below are energy ratings of windows and doors:
1. The U-Factor
U-factor measures how easily heat passes through windows and doors. To reduce heat loss, windows and doors having a low U-factor are preferable. Old windows having a single pane of glass in an aluminum frame may have a U-factor of 1.3 while energy-efficient windows may have a low U-factor of about 0.1.
Note that the lower the rating of the U-factor, the better the insulation property of the windows and doors.
2. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
This is the fraction of the solar heat or radiation that enters the house through the windows and doors. The lower the number, the less heat is allowed through the windows and doors. Windows and doors without higher numbers will make the indoor temperatures high, which may not be preferable during the summer.
As a result, windows and doors with lower SHGC ratings in warm climates are best to reduce the need for air conditioning which higher number SHGC should be chosen in cooler climates to enable the sun to heat the home in the winter. It is crucial to balance U-factor and SHGC with your area.
3. Air Leakage
This is the rate at which air passes through the windows and doors' frames. Lower numbers indicate that the window or door is more airtight. 0.3 is the standard code, but a lower number is not bad.
4. Visible Transmittance
Thus, rating concerns windows and doors with glass only. It is the amount of light allowed to pass through. A lower number indicates that the room will be dimmer, and vice versa.
5. Condensation Resistance
This measures how much moisture can build upon the surface of windows or doors, or between glazing layers. A lower number indicates more condensation on the windows and doors can build up.
Riverbend Windows & Doors
We have the best quality windows at Riverbend, Inc. Browse through our inventory for stylish, durable and eco-friendly windows in London.
How Do I Stop Condensation On My House Windows?
Homeowners have been struggling with condensation for centuries. Until science came around, nobody knew how to deal with it. Luckily enough, we are in the 21 century and it turns out condensation is easily solved.
First, you should know that exterior condensation can’t be stopped since it occurs because of natural and sudden temperature change. In fact, if your house windows have exterior condensation, you shouldn’t be worried at all. It means that you have proper insulation.
On the other hand, interior condensation is usually a sign for rooked windows or high humidity levels. Here is how to deal with it:
Control Water Vapour
There are a couple of causes for interior condensation. Your problem might be complicated or simple. To find out whether you are facing a more serious issue, start making baby steps like controlling water vapor.
Putting lids while cooking, drying clothes outside and turning up those vents may save you a ton of worries. Dehumidifiers also help and are usually placed in basements and attics to reduce chances for mold growth and rot.
Remove Plants
Even though plants look amazing on the inside, they do increase humidity levels. Your condensation may be occurring because you have plants that are too close to the windows. To deal with this, you can replace them with plastic ones and move the real ones outside.
There are a few plants that miraculously reduce humidity and can help you with your condensation. Such plants are Tillandsia, Peace Lilly, Epiphytes, Xerophytes, and Boston Fern.
Upgrade Doors & Windows
Sometimes neither cooking nor plants have to do anything with the problem. In older or faulty homes, windows and doors aren’t of the highest possible quality. This means that they are probably loose, detached, broken or scratched.
Damaged doors and windows lead to draftiness, poor soundproofing, rot, leaks, and high energy spending. One of the first signs of the need for window replacement is interior condensation.
The best way to be sure that it has nothing to do with your windows is to schedule a free consultation. If you know that it does, just update your windows and doors to Energy Star rated ones.
Improve Ventilation
Okay, so we discussed the worst and most common scenario – you need to do full on replacement. Let’s get back on track and discuss less expensive measures. After controlling water vapor and removing plants, you should put more focus on the quality of your ventilation.
Start with opening up your windows and doors at least twice a day. Afterward, install ceiling fans to get the air circulating. Think of cleaning your ducts and HVAC to assure you always get refreshed air. Some homeowners decide to create more window openings or change the window type.
Riverbend Windows & Doors
We have the best quality windows at Riverbend, Inc. Browse through our inventory for stylish, durable and eco-friendly windows in London.
Why Should You Replace Your Windows?
Smart homeowners always look for ways to make their homes better. Your home is one of the biggest investments you have, both financially and emotionally. It’s a place where memories are built and where children become adults. Additionally, it’s a source of enormous financial income just waiting to activate.
Doing 2-3 home upgrades a year is like regular visits to the doctor. Treat your house wisely and make sure that it’s always in top shape. Here is why you should choose window replacement in 2019:
Increased Curb Appeal
Besides fixing piping and upgrading electrical appliances, you should also put focus on your exterior looks. We wear clothes to make a statement. In a way, this also applies to our home’s exterior looks.
What statement do you want to make? Should you have benches in your garden? Do you want modern windows and doors or wooden and traditional ones?
Dressing your home to represent the energy inside is really important. This is an opinion also shared amongst modern homebuyers.
Research shows that when looking through a home, millennial buyers will most definitely spend more time in evaluating curb appeal and energy efficiency. New windows improve both. They refresh looks and improve efficiency!
Improved Energy Efficiency
New windows improve energy efficiency, but how? First, they are much more functional and effective in temperature and energy retain and second, they protect our homes from damaging UV rays.
With time our windows get old. In the first five years, your windows will protect the home as much as they can. Afterward, things will start to go astray. Here is what happens if you have an old or damaged window:
- Draftiness and condensation
- Leaks, cracks, and rot
- Turning the HVAC/furnace almost all the time
- Poor soundproofing
- UV damage to furniture, artwork, and floor
Because new windows properly insulate your home, none of these signs will appear. The most important being no draftiness or heat on the inside. By not letting cool breezes enter in the winter or hot in the summer, new windows can cut 15% of your energy spending.
Better Security
As technology advances, new products step in the market. Window replacement means that you get to remove your old-fashioned windows and add new and modern ones instead.
Framing materials such as fiberglass and vinyl can protect your home even in the toughest weather. To make things even more appealing, new impact-resistant glass is almost unbreakable, keeping you out of harm’s way and safer from annoying burglars or intruders.
Riverbend Windows & Doors
We have the best quality windows at Riverbend, Inc. Browse through our inventory for stylish, durable and eco-friendly windows in London.
How Do I Reduce my Electricity Bills?
Our bills are getting higher than ever and the weather is becoming even more difficult to handle. Our HVACs are always turned on in the summer and our furnaces in the winter. However, there are a couple of ways to get around these difficulties.
By using these 5 most effective tricks, you will cut your electrical bills by a significant percentage. Take some burden off your wallet:
Windows And Doors
We tend to overlook the importance of windows and doors. Truth is, our energy spending depends on their quality. The most effective way of reducing electrical spending is to make sure your temperature is properly transferred and retain.
If you have old, wooden windows and doors heated air will come inside in summer and cool breezes in winter. This will make you turn on your appliances much more often. Additionally, you will also live in an extremely uncomfortable environment.
Smart Thermostats
The latest trend in modern homeowners is smart thermostats. This device has many benefits. First, it can be adjusted to your preferences. Second, it finds a way on its own to use minimum energy for achieving a certain goal.
Additionally, these devices show statistics on your energy spending. This will make you more aware of your actions, resulting in more careful and eco-friendly electrical usage.
Energy Star Appliances
In the marketplace, there are some appliances that are more energy efficient than others. These have high Energy Star ratings, meaning they spend less energy to get the same job done. The best thing about this is that almost every appliance has an Energy Star rated version of it out there.
From kettles and dryers to windows and doors, these appliances use 15-20% less energy to fulfill their duties. Imagine having 3 or 4 in your home. Your bills will get much lower than they are now.
Clean Filters
HVACs and furnaces work much worse when they aren’t cleaned. If turning on the HVAC isn’t enough, it probably has unclean filters and ducts. That’s why you should clean and upgrade these appliances right before summer and winter.
To get a bit of air circulation flowing, you can also install some ceiling fans. They will move the air in every direction, without using much electricity to do so.
Switch To LED
When it comes to switching appliances, try not to forget the lights! Compared to others such as incandescent and CFL, LEDs have much larger lifespans and use much less electricity. For instance, an LED costs $4, last 25 000 hours and uses 7 Watts. On the other hand, one incandescent bulb costs $1, but lasts only 1200 hours and uses 60 Watts.
You should also focus on installing as many solar lights as possible. If you can’t afford large solar panels, at least put some small bulbs in the backyard. That will save you some of your monthly bills.
Riverbend Windows & Doors
We have the best quality windows and doors at Riverbend, Inc. Browse through our inventory for stylish, durable and eco-friendly windows in London.