Replacing windows? Consider these things first

Replacing windows is both a huge chore and a big expense. You need to be sure that your investment will pay off in the long run. Before you go ahead and replace your windows, consider the answers to these important questions. They will ensure that you have exactly what you need in the house.

• Is it a retrofit or a real replacement?

If you have ongoing construction in the house, replacement windows might be exactly what you need. This will require cutting the siding or the stucco, then removing the flashing paper and taking out the entire window. In the case of a retrofit, the exterior of the home or the stucco will not be damaged at all. The old window frame will not be removed. A new window shall be installed inside the old framework.

• What sort of window frame do you desire?

Go for the kind of window frames that work for you. You have a lot of choices when it comes to window frames. Vinyl frames are low maintenance and affordable. Vinyl windows are usually brownish or whitish in color. Aluminum frames are available in a darker color and they insulate well. Fiberglass does not require maintenance but they can be expensive. The most popular choice is wood and comes in a wide array of colors. The downside to wood is that it does not last as long as the other materials.

• Will the windows be single or dual glazed?

Single glazed windows consist of just one pane of glass. They can be easy to replace if they break and they are easy to clean as well. Double glazed windows consist of two panes of glass which have a layer of air trapped in between, this offers a great deal of insulation. The seal of a dual glazed window will fail after 15-20 years and expenses will be high when replacing a dual glazed window.

• How can it increase the value of the home?

Good windows make for a great selling point; conversely bad windows are a big deterrent. Even if you have no plans to sell your house anytime soon, it helps if you think of your home as an investment. You should choose windows that will be a good selling point. It might be worth your while to go for fiberglass frames and dual glazed windows over wood frames and single panes that will not insulate well. If you are looking to replace your windows consider Western Glass restoration and tinting. Look for window replacement, window cleaning, window tinting and protective coatings.