Replacement Windows Can Add Beauty And Value To Your Home

Replacing your windows with vinyl windows is a big decision, but one you don't want to prolong for too long of a time. Consider vinyl windows more of an investment in your home as opposed to an expense. In fact, this improvement will actually pay for itself in savings on utility bills over a period of time. Older wooden windows allow warm air to leak out in the winter and may cost you an additional 38% more for heating. At the same time, these older windows allow cool air to escape in the summer months, leading to a cooling bill of approximately 32% higher. Moisture is another problem to consider with older types of windows. If they allow moisture to condense on the sills and walls, this may lead to a mold and mildew problem that is costly to repair and poses potential risky health considerations.

Do My Windows Really Need To Be Replaced?

The first clue as to whether replacement windows are needed is how easily the windows open and close. A smooth even flow up or down will tell you the windows are not in bad shape. However, both wood and vinyl windows eventually wear out and will start to stick, open unevenly or become hard to lock when closed tightly. If this is the case, then replacement windows are in your future.

How Can I Tell If My Widows Are Leaking?

Often a window appears to be in good working order so it's hard to tell if it's allowing air to escape. A good clue is if there is moisture between the panes of glass. As the air escapes, the difference in air temperature allows the moisture in that air to condense between the panes of glass. If there is a large amount of moisture build up, it can lead to spotting on the sills or walls. In an extreme case, the moisture may lead to mold and mildew that is expensive to correct properly and causes eye and throat irritations in many people.

Another trick to check if you need replacement windows is to take a flashlight and shine it around the window and frame. If the person on the other side can see any light around the frame, it will alert you to a problem. Window frames should be completely sealed to prevent air loss. This same type of test can also be conducted with the use of a candle. Carefully move a lighted candle around the window frame. If the flame flickers or the smoke is blown, you have a leak and replacement windows may be called for.

What About Efficiency?

So now you've tested your windows for air leaks and didn't find any. That doesn't mean you still aren't able to save money with new vinyl windows. If you currently have older single pane windows, they are very inefficient. Heat and cold are transferred directly through the glass, increasing your utility expenses.
Double or triple pane windows are much more efficient and will save you money in the long run.

Your replacement widows need to be evaluated for the proper features. For example, if you're going to replace the bathroom windows, you should make sure they provide privacy as well as efficiency. Check to see how they will appear from the outside of your house. Will they make your home look more modern and up to date? Adding vinyl windows can greatly increase the curb appeal of your home.

Replacement windows should be considered a major investment, not a major expense. The savings will start immediately and will build over time. You'll enjoy a nicer looking home and will have added comfort and savings all at the same time.

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Comments

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 at 5:56 PM, by Stop destroying windows
Try installing storm windows or weather-stripping your windows.
Replacing a window that has lasted 50+ years for something with a LIMITED 15 year warranty is just plain stupid

Sun, 1 Feb 2009 at 7:15 PM, by Vinyl Replacement Windows
Don't be stupid. I have saved a fortune sine replacing my old windows with new energy efficient vinyl replacement windows and couldn't be happier. Also, they have a lifetime warranty!

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