The longer you live in an older home, the more you may wonder if your windows are doing their job.
Let’s face it: property upkeep costs, doesn’t it? If we don’t occasionally replace our windows, we’ll find our home vulnerable to the elements.
Just like houses, windows come in different styles and product quality. The question is, which windows are right? The answer depends on cost-effectiveness, the age of the house, and your long-term plans.
If you know of a family-based business, such as Mr. Windows in Houston, Texas, then you know who to contact for expert advice.
There are so many considerations when replacing windows that you could find yourself confused enough that you either can’t make a decision or make the wrong decision. Mr. Windows wants to make sure that doesn’t happen.
Most folks do “people shopping” when they replace windows. First, they look through catalogs or online to see how windows look on other houses, most likely looking for the same style house as theirs.
Second, they ask their neighbors some of the following questions:
- Who installed your windows?
- How long have you had them?
- And how many windows did you have replaced?
- How much did they cost?
- What difference did it make in the resale value of your home?
- Did you have alarms placed on the windows?
There’s no marketing like word of mouth.
Cost-Effectiveness of Replacement Windows
You should probably have an energy audit of your home if you plan to replace your windows. A professional window company like Mr. Windows can tell you where your most significant energy loss is.
Perhaps you need to replace some – but not all – of your windows; that will save you some money.
Some signs of whether or not your windows are doing their job are:
- You can no longer see out because the glass has a smoky film, and you can’t seem to get them clean.
- Maybe you have the heat on, but you’re still bundled in blankets because there’s a draft.
- You have the air conditioner running, but sweat is pouring down your face.
- Or you can’t open or shut the windows because they are stuck.
- Your electricity bill is outrageous, even though you are careful not to leave the lights on.
Some things you can do:
- Check your windows for leaks and cracks. If water is getting in when there isn’t a storm, you’ll be in trouble when a disaster comes calling. Don’t neglect this step.
- Look for unwanted air coming through the cracks. Place your hand near the window to see if you can feel a draft, and if you can, it’s time to be proactive because you’re “air conditioning the whole neighborhood,” as our folks would say when we were kids.
The Age of the Windows
Another thing to consider is the age of the windows. If they were initially installed in your home, it could be that stock windows won’t work without altering the size of the window frame, which could involve additional work, thus increasing the cost. It might mean you’ll be better off custom-installing them.
If your plans to purchase windows must be held off for a while, one option might be to place storm windows over old windows. While you may have to replace them eventually, this could buy you some time.
Maybe only the glass in the old windows needs replacing, which can sometimes be done with new glass.
Long-Term Plans with Replacement Windows
What’s your reason for window replacement? Are you thinking about selling your home? If so, window replacement will be in your favor. The words “The windows were all recently replaced” are like music to a buyer’s ears, because it means they won’t have to worry about this upgrade.
It will still be a good move if you aren’t planning on selling but will be handing down the property to a family member. Your main priority will be comfort and safety, so you’ll have peace of mind knowing your loved ones live in a house with secure windows.
Whether you choose custom windows or stock windows primarily depends on your budget. Custom windows have more wiggle room but are more pricey. Naturally, stock windows are cut according to pre-set specifications and may or may not fit.
In the Houston area, Mr. Windows wants to take your vision and make it a reality. Spending the money on new windows is a big deal, but having windows fail is a bigger deal. With the financing options available and affordable payments, most homeowners can replace their windows.
There’s no reason not to have beautiful, functional, and secure windows. There’s every reason to contact Mr. Windows. Call us today. Our estimates are free, and one of our consultants will sit down with you and discuss the possibilities.
