Discover The True Cost Of Poor Quality Replacement Windows In Your Home

Are you considering replacing your windows sometime in the near future? If so, you might be wondering how much a window replacement project will set you back. While wanting the best price is never a bad thing, the truth of the matter is the cost of poor quality windows is far greater than if you had paid a little bit more for good quality windows in the first place. At Windows on Washington, we are the window experts, and we have seen far too many people coming to us with their head in their hands because the new (and cheap) windows they just bought are not working as intended. That is why we have put together this article to help you understand the true cost of poor quality replacement windows. 

Your Utility Bills Will Increase 

Poor quality windows can cause your utility bills to increase. How? If your windows were not installed properly, are a poor-quality material, or are single-paned, chances are they are letting your conditioned air out, and outside air in. This ultimately means your heating and cooling system is working twice as hard to keep your home temperate because the conditioned air is escaping through your windows. On the other hand, good quality windows will work to keep your home temperate without the use of a heating and cooling system, which means you will need to use that system less, which will save you money on your energy bills in the long run. 

You Might Notice Fog or Condensation Between the Panes 

Even if your new replacement windows are double-paned, if they are of poor quality, it is much more likely you will notice condensation or fog between the existing window panes, which is a sign the window’s seals have failed. If this happens, most times the only option is replacing the windows, and you will be basically paying over double the price for something you could have avoided if you had opted for the higher quality replacement window in the first place. 

Your Home May Feel Overly Drafty/Warm and Noisy 

Poor quality windows do not make for a comfortable home. While good quality replacement windows eliminate drafts and cold spots in the home in winter, and warm spots in summer, poor quality windows will do the opposite. Your home will feel overly drafty in winter, and overly warm in summer. Not to mention poor quality windows don’t offer protection against exterior noise, whereas good quality replacement windows will help reduce the amount of outside noise coming in.  

How to Choose Quality Replacement Windows 

In our opinion, ‘quality’ doesn’t always mean the most expensive product. But it does mean a product that achieves certain industry and consumer expectations and standards based on its overall cost. Quality also means confidence that your purchase will be able to long withstand harsh summers, brutal winters and everything in between. Here are some tips to help you choose the best quality windows for your home.

Materials

Vinyl is a common and good quality material for replacement windows. Vinyl windows are made from rigid, impact-resistant polyvinyl chloride and can resist heat transfer and condensation. Vinyl windows don't require painting or finishing, and the material doesn't fade or rot. Aluminum windows can be a cost-effective yet still a good quality option for replacement windows. They're durable, light and relatively easy to handle. 

Operation

Operation is another thing to consider when choosing quality replacement windows. Do the windows look as though they will withstand heavy use? Does the window latch firmly without too much effort? Does the weatherstripping fit snugly? Are the screens solidly built and easy to remove?

Glass 

Energy-efficient double-pane glass should be a standard option, but it is often worth paying a little extra for two additional features: a low-E coating and argon gas between the panes. Most manufacturers have two variations of this type of glass, one designed for cold climates and one designed to control sunlight in warmer climates.