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Retrofitting a house with high performance windows can produce significant
energy savings and improved comfort. However, when the right window
is installed incorrectly, or worse yet the wrong window is installed
incorrectly energy savings will be few, structure and furnishings
may be damaged. A homeowner needs to understand
more than just the way a window looks. Installing a window
correctly takes a lot of careful attention and skill. Before you buy, find out about emergency egress requirements for retro-fit windows. They often have smaller openings than the original window (especially when you don't remove the existing frame) by as much as 2 inches in height and 3 inches in width. In some rooms, such as bedrooms, the smaller opening may violate local requirements for emergency exit. You should make sure you have a licensed contractor. One thing to check out about installation is if they plan on installing the windows in a way to avoid damaging the moisture seal. Water penetration can cause structural damage if the seal between the existing window frame and the wall's moisture barrier is disturbed. This is especially likely to occur when an old finned metal frame is collapsed and forcibly pulled from the wall. Ask how they will install your windows. Make sure company has been in business for awhile and understands your needs and concerns. Ask for references, the type of guarantee on labor as well as the windows. Many windows are pro-rated guarantees and you could end up without any guarantee after a couple of years. If you have to get your insulated glass replaced because it has moisture between the glass, this precaution can save you a lot of time and money in the future. There are many companies out there who offer not only a guarantee to the current homeowner but also offer a guarantee to the next owner of the house. Find out if there is a showroom that you can actually examine the windows. Do a "hands-on" examination making sure they have good locks, the rollers and guides used are good and the screens are easy to remove. Check out the different features of the windows and ask questions. Find out about websites, many window manufacturers have very informative websites and can answer many of your questions. Get several bids and check with the contractor board if you have any questions about a company or a contractor. Review your contract and understand exactly what product you are getting before you sign. Find a contractor who is as concerned about your money as he is with his bottom line. Windows are not an easy item to replace once you decide you have chosen the wrong one, therefore be sure and chose the right one first. A U.S. Department of Energy study on windows in today's homes has found that the percentage of glass in a typical home has increased by 25 percent over the past two decades. Windows will naturally bring daylight into the home, but with today's advanced technology and designs it is possible to bring even more light into the home without compromising energy efficiency. This can be a good thing, studies show natural daylight is a benefit to those who live in the home. Those who are deprived of natural light can experience headaches, fatigue and even illness. There are many types of windows, Awnings, casements, single hung, double hung sliders, picture windows and architectural shapes, such as curved or angled. You are also able to make combinations of these windows to make bay and bow windows. Just because it isn't a standard window does not mean you can't have most sizes of windows in your home. Windows are made in a variety of materials, including a number of solid woods, fiberglass and vinyl. If you want to stain your windows, be sure and have you windows stain gradeable. Wood offers a classic and customized look. A good quality vinyl window should last as long as the house. Windows are not an inexpensive item to replace, if building a new house use good windows so you aren't replacing them at your expense. |
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