Investing in replacement windows? Learn how to choose wisely.

If you are considering window replacement as a major project, it’s essential to make well-informed choices in order to maximize your investment in terms of performance, aesthetics, and energy efficiency.

At Best Exteriors, you can shop an extensive selection of replacement windows Alameda CA homeowners love, and/or request a quote on any type of window installation. For more information or to request a quote, call us at (888) 853-6277

When to Use Replacement Windows

If the existing wall has already been constructed and cannot be disturbed (apart from removing the existing window and replacing the trim and casings), replacement windows is an excellent option. This is particularly true if:

A new window is being installed to replace an old one
There is no new construction underway in the building/house
There are nailing fins designed to facilitate the removal of the window
It is essential that the wall remain in place as much as possible

Window Frame Materials

Nowadays, there are numerous options of window frames available to choose from. Among the most popular of replacement windows Alameda CA are:

Wood Frame

It is typically the most expensive type of window frame. It is entirely made of wood. While it is possible to paint or stain the interior wood surfaces, the exterior surfaces are usually covered in aluminum or vinyl. In addition to protecting the outside wood from the elements, these surfaces also prevent insect infestation and rot. Additionally, they reduce maintenance requirements, since they do not require repainting. The exterior colors of wood windows vary widely, allowing you to pick one that matches your home’s exterior design.

Vinyl Frame

Most of the time, they’re the least expensive—and usually white. Although many models come with limited exterior and interior colors, some models also feature wood-laminated finishes. Vinyl window frames cannot usually be painted or stained, so if you intend to coordinate their color with the exterior paint, keep that in mind. They are also less likely to be equipped with hardware than wooden frames.

Composite Frame

Normally available at a mid-price range, they are constructed of fiberglass or a combination of materials. In most cases, they do not require painting or staining. Some parts of them may be constructed of solid wood, laminated wood, or plastic with embedded wood fibers. Combining aluminum and wood provides the appearance of solid wood while ensuring that the underlying structure is more stable. By embedding fiberglass needles into plastic, fiberglass windows gain strength and stiffness over vinyl; some brands do not offer this option.

Features to Look For

If you are looking for replacement windows, here are a few important features to consider.

Cladding

Currently, wood-framed windows are clad with aluminum, vinyl, or fiberglass to protect them from the weather and eliminate the need for painting. Window materials made of wood are generally the most expensive but are also the most attractive. There are a variety of wood types available for the interior of many brands, including pine, maple, and oak. It can be stained or painted right at the factory.

Double or Triple Glazing

A double-glazed window has air or argon gas arranged between two panes of glass to slow the transmission of heat. Gas provides better insulation consequently reducing the energy costs. You can also reduce the outside noise by adding triple-glazing onto the window.

Low-E Coating

Low-emissivity (low-E) coatings are transparent and reflect heat while letting in light, improving the efficiency of glass. When the coating is applied to the outside of the glass in warmer climates to reflect the sun’s rays, it keeps the heat in, while when the coating is applied to the inside of the glass it keeps the heat out.

Tilt-In Sashes

The sashes (i.e. the moving element of a window) of single-hung and double-hung windows may be tilted in for easy cleaning. The majority of window manufacturers offer this option.

At Best Exteriors, you can shop an extensive selection of replacement windows Alameda CA homeowners love, and/or request a quote on any type of window installation.

For more information or to request a quote, call us at (888) 853-6277

Is it possible to replace windows myself?

If you have prior experience in construction, you can certainly install and replace your own windows, however, we do not recommend it for large projects. You will also want to be sure to have the right tools for the job and complete your window replacement project one window at a time if you decide to take on the project yourself.

What would be the best time to replace windows?

If you want to replace your windows, spring and fall are the best times because these seasons tend to be more temperate, with less tempestuous weather that strains your home’s HVAC system. Our weather in Alameda, CA allows us to perform window installation all year round, but sometimes it may be delayed by rain.

Are replacement windows worth the cost?

They do but paybacks do not occur all at once or quickly. The rising costs of energy can be tricky, so most people don’t notice that they are paying more each month for drafty windows that let in winter chills or summer heat and humidity. It may take several years to see a return on their investment just from energy savings, but it will absolutely be worth the effort.

At Best Exteriors, you can shop an extensive selection of replacement windows Alameda CA homeowners love, and/or request a quote on any type of window installation.

For more information or to request a quote, call us at (888) 853-6277