Your window can last for up to 20 years if it’s made from strong materials, such as aluminum.
Replacing residential windows may look like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite easy. You just need to do some research, get the right tools, and be patient. If you do this, you’ll do effective window replacement and save a lot of money.
Unfortunately, some people make several mistakes when replacing their windows. Here are some of those mistakes.
1. Selecting the Wrong Window Type
You have to choose your ideal window from multiple options in the market. Each window comes with its own benefits as well as disadvantages. These are the things that you must know before you buy a new window.
Buying generic windows seems like a good way to save money, but it can be a mistake. That’s because many generic windows don’t have the robustness and stability to last long enough. Instead of lasting for 20 years, they’ll probably start breaking after a few months or years.
It’ll also be a mistake if you choose types of windows that don’t conserve energy. Windows that aren’t energy-efficient can increase your energy bills in the long term.
2. Installing the Same Type of Windows as Previous One
You’re probably wondering why this is a mistake because you’d like to maintain your window style. It is a mistake because window technologies, designs, and styles change frequently. A window model that has been serving you for two decades doesn’t have the latest technologies.
It’s, therefore, a good thing to choose a new type of window. The new window will have better features and will most likely be energy-efficient. In addition, it’ll change and update the appearance of your house.
3. Buying Cheap Windows
It’d be best if you considered the price of the replacement windows, but this shouldn’t be your only consideration. Cheap and affordable windows have flooded the market, but many of them don’t have high-quality characteristics. They may have an attractive design, but they aren’t made from materials that are not durable or energy efficient.
As indicated above, most homeowners will probably do one casement window replacement project in 20 years. Consequently, it would help if you made a substantial investment by purchasing high-quality windows. This will reduce your maintenance costs and energy expenditure.
You may also want to do some customization to your new windows. This won’t be possible if you go for cheap and generic windows. Spending a little more money when buying window replacements will be difficult, but it will be cheaper in the long term.
4. Doing the Replacement Yourself
You may think that window replacement projects are straightforward, and anybody can do them. Doing it yourself will be cheaper and probably faster, but you may not have the expertise and equipment to install new windows.
A poorly installed window won’t be functional for very long. It’ll soon break down, and you’ll have to repair or even replace it. This will be an additional cost that you should have avoided by hiring a professional window installer.
When you don’t install your window correctly, water and air will start leaking into the inside of your house. Moreover, the windows may not conserve energy even if they are energy-efficient windows. A professional window installer would ensure that the window performs optimally.
Similarly, poorly installed windows can destroy the siding and walls of your house. As a result, it’s best to choose a window replacement company that’ll provide a warranty to cater for any potential damages.
5. Working With an Incompetent Contractor
Any home improvement project will fail if the homeowner hires an incompetent contractor. If you want your windows to be functional, you need to hire the right expert.
Many home improvement technicians usually promise many things that they can’t deliver. They’ll even promise discounts and free giveaways just to get the job. Once they’ve got it, they’ll do a shoddy job.
It’s, therefore, important to take your time and research potential window insulation experts. You can also ask for reviews from your friends and family members. Moreover, you can find websites where people post reviews about window installation companies.
6. Ignoring Climate Conditions in Your Area
Your windows work with the walls and the roof to protect your house from weather elements. You have to know the prevailing weather conditions in your area before you buy new windows. That is because each type of window is only able to withstand specific climatic conditions.
Houses in coastal areas will be better off with hurricane-ready windows. Those windows should have the capacity to withstand heavy winds and strong breezes from the ocean.
Houses in hotter climates usually have insulated frames for protection from sunlight. The insulated frames also come in handy in areas with cool climates.
Windows that are compatible with your local climatic conditions are a good option. They’ll reduce your overall energy expenditure and withstand long-term wear and tear. You can even get windows that are customized for your particular neighborhood.
7. Forgetting Security
Windows are a key component of your home’s security design. They’re the weakest link into your house that criminals can exploit. As a result, you must choose windows that are strong enough to withstand breakage.
Many windows on sale have additional elements to increase strength. They are highly resistant to any form of impact, and they will not break easily. In addition, many of them are tinted so that people can’t see the inside of your home.
It’s also important to use strong window frames. These frames will boost the strength of your windows.
Avoid Mistakes When Replacing Residential Windows
There are many reasons why you’ll want to replace your windows. New windows will increase security and protect your house from adverse weather elements. However, they won’t function properly or last long if you make mistakes when replacing residential windows.
For more Home Improvement tips, please read our other blog posts.
