Replacement Windows: Why Good Enough Is Not Good Enough

If you are looking to replace your windows, you might be considering how to make the project as stress-free and cost-effective as possible. When it comes to any home improvement job, it may be tempting to go for the quickest and most cost-effective option. There is no arguing replacing your windows can be a costly affair. The reality is, however, it often ends up being more expensive in the long-run if you opt for the cheaper option because ultimately, cheaper materials do not last as long, and do not work as intended. While there is nothing wrong with being frugal, when it comes to replacement windows, “good enough” is never good enough. Your windows are an essential part of your home. They keep it at a comfortable temperature, while also ensuring bugs and other debris do not get inside. Quality replacement windows can even help reduce your utility bills over time. There are countless reasons why good enough isn’t good enough when it comes to replacement windows. Let us take a look at a few of those reasons. 

The Benefits of Replacing Your Windows 

Before we get into why you need quality replacement windows, let us first discuss why replacing your windows is a good idea in the first place. There are many benefits that come with replacing your windows, one of them being achieving the aesthetic look you want for your home. Modern replacement windows come in a variety of finishes and styles to suit any taste and style. 

Another important benefit of replacing your windows is they help to air seal your home. Air leakage is one of the biggest impacting factors when considering the energy efficiency of your home. By replacing your windows, you will help ensure any gaps will not appear between the window and the frame as the seasons go by. This also helps you save on energy and utility bills overtime.

And finally, replacement windows can offer you greater home comfort by reducing the noise from outside penetrating inside. If your home is far from other homes or noisy streets, outside noise might not be a problem. However, for those who live in a bustling community or on a busy street, you will be amazed at the sound difference replacement windows can offer. 

Not all Window Replacements are Equal 

When it comes to replacement windows, not all are equal. Typically, the cheaper the window, the worse the quality, while the higher the price tag, the better the quality. However, cost alone should not be the only main factor in making your decision. You also need to be confident that the replacement window will be durable, deliver in performance and suit the needs of your home. What is important to you and your home? Here are some things to consider: 

• Design
• Durability
• Temperature
• Wind resistance
• Color
• Quality of the glass
• Materials used

All of the above factors will influence how much your replacement windows cost. 

The Materials You Choose Matter 

Another thing to note when replacing your windows is that materials matter. The window replacement materials hierarchy goes like this: wood is at the top, fiberglass in the middle and vinyl is the least expensive. Wood windows are the most expensive both with initial outlay and long term maintenance, so think about if you truly need wooden windows. While some homes (such as historic homes) stipulate you need wooden windows, generally speaking you can get the look and feel of wood using more cost-effective (but still good quality) windows like vinyl or fiberglass. 

Finding the Right Window Replacement Contractor is Vital 

Arguably, finding the right window replacement contractor is more important than the quality of the window you choose. This is because the right contractor will steer you in the right direction. They can be the difference between a quality long term window and an ongoing financial headache. Professional window installers know and understand each product, how to properly install the product, and which product will best suit your home, climate you live in and individual home improvement goals and needs. So when it comes to installing quality replacement windows, a good, trustworthy home improvement contractor should always be your first port of call.