Upgrading the windows in your home to new ones is a sure way to both give your home a facelift and to save energy. When choosing windows, you want to make sure you pick the right ones since you will be living with the investment for many years. The following are a few key mistakes to avoid:
#1: Ignoring basic maintenance
It's easy to pick the same type of window frames as you had before, simply because that is all you know. If that happens to be wood frames, though, you may be installing more work than you need to. This is because wood frames require basic annual maintenance, including stripping and painting or weather sealing if you want them to last more than a few years. Instead, upgrade to a more modern and durable material, like vinyl or aluminum. Both come in a variety of colors, never need painting or sealing, and they can last the entire lifetime of the windows with no need for any regular maintenance.
#2: Not listing your goals
When it comes to purchasing windows, you need to have some goals in mind. What is the main thing you want the windows to achieve, other than keeping the rain out? If it's to cut down on energy costs, then you may want to invest in double or triple pane insulated windows. If your main goal is to cut down on the evening sun shining into your bedroom, then low-E reflective windows or tinted glass may be a better option. If aesthetics are high on your list of window goals, then look at windows with decorative inserts, stain glass accents, or pretty metal grills that up the appearance factor.
#3: Failing to think long-term
This is most likely to affect you in terms of aesthetics, particularly if you opt for vinyl windows. This is because it can be hard to change the color of vinyl window frames. Stick with a neutral color for the frame, as opposed to a more vibrant accent color, because your taste in accent colors may change before the windows need to be replaced again. Long-term planning also comes into play when you consider extras – for example, if you are planning to cut down the tree in the next few years that keep the afternoon sun from heating up your living room, then you may want to consider heat reflective glass even if you won't be needing it right away.
For more help, contact a window installation contractor in your area, like Fischer Window and Door Store.
Share30 August 2017
When was the last time you really looked at your home windows and thought about their condition? Although they can be easy to ignore, older windows or versions that have insulation troubles won't protect your home from steep temperature changes, pest infestations, or harsh UV sunlight. I decided to upgrade my own windows a few years ago, which is why I made this blog. Here, I have collected loads of information about window types, features, and styles, so that you don't have to guess when it comes to your brand new window installation. By using this information, your home can look better than ever.
