Boost Power Efficiency With Replacement Windows

By Adriana Noton


If you have an older home, you realize the frustration of getting your electrical bill each month. It is amazing the amount of air that escapes in summer and the amount of cold air that comes in during the winter. This has homeowners looking at replacement windows. If you purchase certain types of designs with a proper energy efficient rating, some governments offer a tax break. Some power companies will offer rebate programs on them as well.

For those planning to tackle a replacement job themselves, you need to have tools that will work properly on this job. There can be some places you will need a power saw to make minor cuts to allow the new frame to be placed in properly. To avoid air escaping, you will need to seal the frame as well. Older ones pulled out will need to be discarded of properly.

If you are having someone install these for you, check to see what the installation rate is as some are per unit and can be costly. You might be better checking on message boards or local ads for a building contractor to get a better rate. By using your own contractor, you can sometimes save on labor.

Vinyl windows are one of the most popular choices for replacement out there. They do not have the rusting or corrosion problems of the older metal versions out there. They glide smoothly when opening. You can even get custom sizes and colors out there. If you need to special order, be prepared for a wait time to factor into your decision. The most energy efficient models are dual pane. The air gap between the two panes help with insulation. Some manufacturers fill that gap with an inert gas which helps raise the insulating factor up higher.

If you visit a home improvement store, you can find these styles and most use sub contractors for their installations. This will be an additional cost so get a quote on what to expect for the complete costs. Getting a quote in writing can avoid any hidden fees.

You can get the most accurate quote by having the correct measurements. Also, you will want to have a style picked out such as a double hung, bay or other specialty window. For those that own a historical home, look for replacement frames that will allow you too keep the original look intact. There are manufactures that still carry wood frames in addition to the newer vinyl.

Looking on the web can show you many companies that have different models out there. You can compare designs and pricing. You want to be able to make the best choice for your replacements. Look at a home improvement store to see if they have a catalog with measurement guide located in it. You will be able to write down the proper information and bring in for the best quote.

Prior to changing out your old frames, make sure the weather will be tolerable whether its in the winter or summer months. You want to use drop cloths to alleviate the dust that can get on everything.




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