Window Replacement: Things to Know

If you are thinking about window replacement or window installation in Pleasanton CA, there are a lot of factors you need to consider, whether it is choosing which type of window is right for you, choosing the right kind of glazing, or even considering whether you need to replace your windows at all.

So, how do you determine whether or not you need to replace the windows in your home?

Maybe you have recently noticed that some of your windows are difficult to open – a common issue, particularly with wooden windows. Perhaps your house has too much noise coming in from outside, or condensation has started to build up between the double glazed windows. Alternatively, you may have conducted a home energy audit and noticed steadily increasing energy bills. In most cases, these problems indicate the need for a window replacement. However, we went a step further and answered some of the most common questions homeowners have about replacing windows. Keep reading to learn more.

Are My Windows Affected By Moisture? 

Moisture accumulation inside the window may indicate a faulty window, particularly if you observe condensation or mold inside the window, or if moisture pools inside the windowsill.

The most common signs of moisture problems are fogging between two windowpanes or condensation on the window facing the interior of your home. During this time, sealing between the two panes can harden and crack. A vinyl window frame is especially vulnerable to cracking during the summer and winter when the frame expands and contracts, causing a seal to crack, leading to fogging and, ultimately, a failed window.

The following are some things you can try before replacing your windows if you are experiencing these issues.

• If you have a crawl space under your home, be sure your crawl space has a moisture barrier. Your house should be able to resist cold air rising from the ground below.
• You should ventilate while cooking, showering, and doing laundry. A dehumidifier will help you if you have one.
• Lift your blinds so that air can circulate against your windows.

If after trying these solutions, you still see moisture inside your windows, you may need to replace them.

How Long Do Windows Last? 

A well-maintained window will typically last 20-50 years, depending on the type. You’ll want to look for fogged glass, damaged frames, and drafty rooms in a home you’re considering replacing windows in or evaluate windows in a property you’re considering buying.

New construction and remodeling typically feature high-quality windows, but based solely on appearance and warranty, it’s hard to predict how long they’ll last. Economy windows often come with lifetime warranties, giving the impression that they can last for a lifetime. However, due to the mass-production of cheaper windows in standard sizes, they tend to be of lower quality.

Generally, economy windows that have insulated glass fail within a few years, causing operational issues because of substandard balance systems. As a result, you may notice that opening the window becomes difficult or that fog appears between the panes of the window.

A window’s lifespan can also be shortened by improper window installation in Pleasanton CA. Wind, water, and insects can penetrate your home’s building envelope as a result of poor installation, causing damage to your window frames.

What Factors To Consider When Choosing Windows? 

When choosing replacement windows for your home, it can be confusing to know what features to look for. The process can, however, be broken down into four factors: material, type, package, and budget.

Should I Replace All Of My Windows At Once? 

There should never be any pressure placed on a homeowner to replace all of their existing windows at once, since replacing all windows is a big job that can be very expensive. Your budget and goals are the most important factors when deciding whether to replace all the windows at once. The main goal of replacing all your windows would be to achieve energy-efficiency or to increase curb appeal within your budget.

It typically takes two or three stages to install replacement windows – usually starting at the front of the house and going back, followed by the upstairs. It is very important to understand these stages, as once you order ten or more windows, the cost per window stays the same. Getting an estimate from a professional is the best way to find out what you can afford when considering a whole-house window replacement project.

How Do I Measure For New Replacement Windows?

New replacement windows should be measured according to the homeowner’s specific needs. You should keep in mind that the window will be ¼” smaller than the rough opening between the framing timbers. If you have ¾” jamb extensions on both sides, then measure between them and add 1 ¼” to that measurement.

Typically, a retrofit installation keeps the existing mainframe. The width and height are calculated by measuring the smallest point of the existing mainframe, then subtracting ¼” from that measurement of width and height.

What Type Of Glazing Do I Need For My Windows?

Generally speaking, residential glass can be divided into two types: 2-coat Low-E and 3-coat Low-E. Both are typically available with or without argon or krypton gas fillings. When cooling is the most important concern most of the year, low-E glass is the best choice. This reduces the most heat gain from the sun and offers the best U-value, lower SGC/SHGC, and U-value/U-factor numbers. Two-coat Low-E, on the other hand, is a good option for cold climates that require more heating while allowing some heat gain during the winter months.

It is also important to consider the hue of Low-E when choosing the type of Low-E for glass. Typically, 3-coat Low-E glasses have a bluish or greenish cast on the glass, while 2-coat Low-E glasses are clear with little to no hue. The more coats of Low-E a glass pane has, the less light it transmits.

Window Installation Pleasanton CA

Choosing which window type to replace and whether to replace your windows can be a difficult decision for homeowners. With our vast experience and knowledge of the industry’s best techniques, Best Exteriors can help you make an informed decision if you’re feeling overwhelmed with the options. The installers we hire are not only certified and insured but also industry-trained. Call (888)-853-6277 to get a free quote on professional window installation in Pleasanton CA.