Know Your Options Before Replacing Your Windows
by Brett Freeman
Assessing the performance of your windows is simple: on a cold day, stand near them. It's not unusual for the air around the windows to be slightly cooler, but if you can feel the chill radiating inward, that's a problem. Cold air coming in means warm air--which you are paying to heat--is going out. The good news is that there is an abundance of products on the market to address poor performing windows. Identifying which is right for your house isn't always easy, though, so it's a good idea to hire a reputable window installation contractor to evaluate your home's windows, even if you plan on doing the repair or replacement work yourself. The solution might be as simple as weather-stripping your window frames. Or your home might benefit from relatively easy-to-install replacement windows. In severe cases, you might need to replace the entire window frame. Having an experienced contractor make this determination is a good way to ensure that you don't overspend, and that you get the best return on your investment.
Good Windows Performing Badly
You can have quality windows, and sound frames, and still get poor performance if the two don't work well together. If your windows are loose in their frames, this means there are gaps where cold air can get in. Rather than replacing the windows, you can simply improve the fit with weather-stripping. Weather-stripping kits let you create a tight seal between the window and frame, keeping Mother Nature where she belongs: outside.
Weathering the Storm
Particularly in older homes, weather-stripping alone may not be enough. The simple fact is that older windows don't perform as well as newer models, and weather-stripping can't change that. But installing storm windows can. High quality storm windows can be just as effective as replacement windows at preventing heat loss, but at a fraction (less than half) of the price. Typical triple-track storm windows have an upper and lower sash plus a screen, and install over the outside of your existing windows. While their performance and value is outstanding, some people find them aesthetically unappealing, so it's a good idea to have your window installation contractor show you what storm windows look like when they're installed before making the commitment. Depending on the storm windows and windows over which they are installed, you may be eligible for a tax credit of up to $200.
Replacement Windows
If your windows are starting to fail--the sashes are coming apart or the glass is becoming loose--or you simply want improved efficiency while preserving the look of your existing windows, then replacement windows (also called replacement sashes) are the way to go. Replacement windows generally consist of double-hung, insulated glass sashes in a thin frame that installs inside of your existing window openings. Because the new frame installs inside of the old one, replacement windows end up being slightly smaller than the windows they replace, but the difference is barely noticeable. If your replacement windows have an Energy Star rating (most do,) you are eligible for a 10 percent tax credit, up to $200. Also, if your old windows had rope-and-weight counterbalances, make sure to have your contractor install insulation in the old weight pockets.
When Major Surgery is Required
When windows start to fail they don't just let in cold air, they let in moisture, which can damage the window frame. If your window frames are suffering from wood rot or water damage, then they also need to be replaced. This is a large undertaking, so it's worth getting a second opinion from another window installation contractor before committing to the project. All of your frames might not be suffering from damage, so ask your contractor which windows need full frame replacements, which will do fine with replacement windows, and if there are any economies of scale that make it worthwhile to replace any of your window frames that are marginal. As with replacement windows, you are eligible for a 10 percent tax credit up to $200 if your new windows have an Energy Star rating.
Sources
• This Old House
• ENERGY STAR
• AskTheBuilder.com
About the author: Brett Freeman is a freelance journalist. He also owns a landscaping and irrigation company in North Carolina. Previously he has worked as a beat reporter, a teacher, and for a home improvement company, and he used to own a bar/live music venue.
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