So, you purchased an older home and the windows aren’t what they once were, or you purchased a newer home and the windows aren’t up to snuff. Maybe you’ve been in your current home for a long time and you’ve started to notice some degradation.
The wrong windows can limit your view and natural light, let in too much outside noise, mess with your home’s energy efficiency, and leave you suffering from chilly drafts throughout your structure. In other words, it might be time to consider an upgrade. There are so many options to choose from, and a window buying guide can leave you scratching your head if you don’t have a professional on hand to help you compare and contrast options.
If you don’t know the right questions to ask, you could end up back in the same boat and out a lot of money following window replacement. Luckily, you’re not reinventing the wheel. You simply need to avoid mistakes common to window replacement. Here are a few important things you’ll want to discuss with a Wilmington Window professional before making a purchase.
A Lateral Move vs an Upgrade
One of the most common mistakes when it comes to purchasing replacement windows is lazily choosing the windows you already have. Okay, it may just be that you want continuity, but even if you’re only replacing one window, there are probably things you don’t like about it, and you can eliminate these issues by upgrading. In addition, you can often find windows that look the same but have added benefits like improved insulation and energy efficiency.
Energy Efficiency
You really need to take the time to understand what different windows have to offer in terms of energy efficiency. Some have extra panes to increase insulation. Others are tinted to cut down on UV rays entering your home. Energy-efficient windows can help you to regulate interior temperature and keep your living space comfortable, even while reducing utility bills. This is an important factor when upgrading.
Cost
There’s no denying that the bottom line matters when it comes to your personal budget, but it’s important not to get so hung up on the initial costs that you fail to consider the benefits of more expensive options. The right upgrade will not only last you for years, but it could reduce noise, increase energy efficiency (and cut utility bills), and boost the value and appeal of your home (i.e. return on investment). These points definitely bear consideration before you choose the cheapest option and forego potential long-term benefits.
DIY vs Pro Installation
Are you an experienced contractor, carpenter, window hanger, or other construction industry professional? If not, it’s probably a really good idea to hire a pro to install your windows. This isn’t to say that truly industrious individuals can’t figure it out, but mistakes are going to cost you, and they could cause problems down the line. Doing the job right the first time, with professional help, could save you a lot of time and money on window replacement in the long run.
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