Window Wellness – When to Replace

By Alan Trauger

Replacing the windows in your home is one of the best improvements that can be done. Windows give your home a face lift and add value at the same time. They make your house more secure, more energy efficient, easier to care for, and more visually appealing. They influence the environment in your home, its style and comfort, light and temperature. They can even protect the safety of your treasures – you, your family, and all your valuable possessions. Windows also protect you from harmful intruders and bone chilling drafts. Newer windows protect your wallet from the rising cost of energy.

By making your home look and feel young again, replacement windows will add value to your home. Home improvement projects often give the feel of newness just like new a new coat of paint, a new kitchen, or a new bathroom. Windows are built much better than they were 10 or 20 years ago due to new technologies, research, and design. They perform better as well. The difference between single panes and today’s double pane with Low – E coatings is vast energy efficient benefit. The new look combined with improved temperature control and a draft free home.

Signs that replacement windows are needed:

• Inoperable or difficult to operate

• Faded upholstery, carpets, and draperies

• Hot or cold spots indicating windows are not insulating properly

• Drafts or excessive condensation on the inside of the panes

• Warped, corroded or rotting frames

• Bent and leaky sashes

• Missing or broken hardware

• Broken glass panes

• High energy bills

There are many different varieties, construction types, and styles of windows to choose from. Selection of materials is an important facet. Geographic locations tend to trend the types and styles. Frame materials include metal, wood, vinyl, metal clad, and other composite material. Important standards and specifications to consider include guidelines from the American Architectural Manufactures Association, National Fenestration Rating Council, and Energy Star. These organizations provide third party independent ratings relating to the quality, structural, air and water performance, as well as thermal performance. Additionally, there are federal tax credit incentives for the replacement with energy efficient windows.

Alan Trauger is a Building Consultant that performs property condition assessments for residential and commercial properties. An experienced and knowledgeable problem solver, understanding processes and issues related to building structures and their systems. An expert witness, trainer, and educator. To view past newsletters on construction and buildings: http://newsletters.alantrauger.com/
To review authors bio, qualifications, and interest in receiving future email newsletters: http://www.alantrauger.com

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