Replacing Windows. To Everything There Is A Season

Posted by: Ken Mariotti

How do I know if my windows need to be replaced? It’s a question we get nearly every day and I   Everything eventually wears out and is replaced with something else. In the case of windows that ‘something else’ is far and away better than what it is replacing.

Marvin awnings

must admit that when I hear that question a song plays in my head. The song goes something like this; to everything there is a season…a time for this and a time for that. That sentiment is indeed the best way to answer the question.

Older homes often have extremely durable original wood windows that with regular maintenance and repair can last 100 years. On the other hand, homes built within the past 50-60 years usually require wood windows to be replaced around 20 years after installation. These wood windows are more prone to rotting primarily due to the fact the wood is not old growth and so not the hardwoods of yesteryear. Additionally, techniques such as finger joints and the environmental restrictions placed on paint ingredients, reduces the paint’s preservative and anti-microbial properties.

While it’s possible to repair surface damage caused by mold, wood rot or cracks, these may be an indication of deeper damage or a precursor to future infrastructure damage because the window system is slowly failing. The most important thing to determine is whether the surrounding structure of the home has sustained any damage. Inefficient windows can leak, allowing water to enter your house both in front of and behind the walls, inviting mold and mildew to grow.

Failing wood window

New materials

Back to the song in my head, to everything there is a season and the season of amazing building materials is indisputably now. Today’s highly energy-efficient windows and design selection, cost-savings, comfort, aesthetics and easy maintenance are compelling reasons to replace old windows.

Improve comfort

It’s not necessary to replace the windows in your entire home in order to obtain the benefits of a

quieter and more comfortable home. Keep in mind that windows can deteriorate much faster on one side of your home that has been exposed to sunlight, wind, rain and other weather conditions. Consider replacing all of the windows on one side of your home at the same time in order to ensure the exterior appearance is consistent.

Lower energy costs

Low E, you’ve probably heard this term a hundred times and still may not quite grasp its significance. Low E or low emissivity glass coatings used on modern windows has a huge impact on your wallet. The coating protects your furnishings from fading and deterioration caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays and it lowers your heating and cooling costs by deflecting unwanted heat gain or loss. Simply said, Low E glass reflects heat back to its source, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Low E coating is specified according to the climate where you live in order to have the maximum impact.  Another reason to replace all of the windows on one side of your home at the same time is because Low-E windows will appear slightly darker than standard glass from the exterior view of the home.

Add ventilation

Consider replacing fixed units (windows that do not open) with operable windows that open in order to improve the airflow throughout your home. Awnings and hoppers are excellent replacements for fixed transoms or fixed bathroom windows. Replacing your old single-pane glass with today’s double or triple-pane glazing will significantly reduce heat loss and regulate heat gain making ventilation more important than ever.

Windows wear out and with the new building materials; there has never been a better time to replace your windows. For additional information about window replacement check out our website.

Importance of Efficiency Windows in Your Chicago Home

Windows play several important roles. Basically, they help in filtering out sunlight and air, even as they allow them to enter through it. Without windows, your rooms would without doubt be a little dark, uninteresting, and dingy. Windows come in many types including single pane windows, double pane windows, wooden shaft windows, vinyl replacement windows, aluminum windows, etc. etc. Windows are definitely a basic necessity of any home, especially if you are living in an area with extreme weather during winter and summer.
 

However, it is quite unfortunate that many homeowners are still using older windows which are inefficient. They have not yet discovered the true value of energy efficient windows. Windows are heavy consumers of energy. An average American home may lose about 30 percent of heating and cooling energy through windows. Energy efficient windows save a lot of money on monthly utility bills. In fact, some new replacement windows have been designed in such a way that they gain energy instead of losing it.
 

If you are building a new home, their higher purchasing costs can be offset as you will probably require a smaller,  less expensive air-conditioning system. Your choice of window can have a significant impact on monthly utility bills. Windows gain or lose heat by means of radiation, convection, conduction and air leakage. This is referred to as heat transfer and is expressed with U-factors or U-values. U-values are opposite or converse to R-values. Thus, a U-value of 2 is the same as an R-value of 0.5 0r 1/2. Not like R-values, the higher the U-values, the better. In other words, higher U-values have better insulation.
 

Conduction is the transfer of heat through a solid, such as metal. Most of the heat is lost through windows via conduction.  With less conductive window frames, such as wood and vinyl, you slow down heat flow. Double or triple pane windows are filled with nonreactive gas, such as Argon and Krypton between panes of glass. This helps to reduce heat flow, as well.
 

Radiation is the transfer of heat from a warmer place to a colder place. For example, if you stand near a fire, you’ll get a warm feeling on your body. On the contrary, your body feels cool when it radiates heat when taking a cold shower.
 

Air leakage through windows accounts for a huge percentage of heat loss through windows. Modern replacement windows have great features that efficiently stop the loss of heat through conduction, convention, radiation or air leakage.
 

Double pane and triple-pane glass windows are known for their superior insulating values. And combining double-pane or triple-pane windows with low-E coatings boosts energy efficiency considerably.

Learn the Value of Energy Efficient Replacement Windows in Chicago

Over the last decades, huge steps in the construction industry have been made, and windows have not been left out. At the moment, double, triple and quadruple pane replacement windows are available. These windows have been designed to improve insulation in order to reduce heat transfer.

Energy efficient windows save you money on heating and cooling costs every single month. By replacing your old, drafty windows, your monthly utility bill will reduce substantially. Although replacing old windows with energy efficient windows is quite costly, the decision to do so is worth the investment.
 

The amount of money you will save on replacement windows depends on several factors. The first thing you will want to consider is the type of window you want. Some windows come with soft coatings while others come with hard coatings. There are single pane, double pane, triple pane and even quadruple pane windows. Some have a gas filling, while some do not. Some replacement windows are filled with argon gas whereas some are filled with krypton. All of these factors will need to be considered when purchasing a replacement window.
 

Window energy efficiency is represented by a U-factor which denotes the rate of heat loss and heat gain. An R-Value is the opposite of a U-factor, for instance, an R-Value of 4 equals a U-factor of 0.25.The lower the U-factor, the more efficient the window is. Since window transfer heat by different ways such as radiation, U-Factor is more readable than R-Value, which denotes heat resistance.
 

A window U-factor represents the whole window system. It measures its performance in terms of its ability to prevent heat transfer. It includes the frame material, the glass insulating properties and the leakiness of the window. What it doesn’t indicate is how well a window is installed. Good installation can also contribute in significant energy savings while poor installation can lead a substantial loss of energy.
 

It should be noted that replacing older windows with high efficiency ones is an expensive project. You may not be able to maximize energy efficient windows if your home isn’t energy efficient. For example, if your attic and basement lack proper insulation, you won’t be able to save much energy with these replacement windows. So, if you want to benefit from your investment, make sure the rest of your home is energy efficient as well. Investing in efficiency windows will make sure you earn your money back – sooner or later you’ll realize you didn’t waste your money.

Why You Should Opt for Energy Efficient Windows in Chicago

What are energy efficient windows and why are they so popular? Let us explain! In brief, an energy efficient window is a window that has met or exceeded Energy Star ratings. In other words, an efficient window is an Energy Star rated replacement window and usually has an inert gas between its panes.
 

Energy efficient products, such as refrigerators, furnaces, and water heaters have become the new norm for individuals that are modernizing their homes. Every homeowner is trying everything possible to save money on electricity bills.
 

So, back to energy efficient windows, this means low thermal emissivity, improved exterior and interior home appearance, and lower monthly utility bills. This says how energy efficient windows are economical due to their ability to reflect, absorb and emit radiant energy. This is one of the main reasons why more and more homeowners are looking for these windows.
 

Your furniture, carpets, photographs and other items in your house need protection from direct sunlight. Harmful UV-rays from sunlight can cause fading to these items. The only effective way to stop these rays is to install a window that has the ability to prevent UV-Rays from getting inside, while at the same time increasing heating and cooling system efficiency. In fact, according to Energy Star, efficient windows can block the damaging rays by about 75%.
 

Condensation is another serious challenge many homeowners are dealing with. Energy efficient replacement windows are designed to address this problem. Typically, water condenses and at times even freezes on the windows during the chilly winter months, which may cause the development of mold.
 

Comfort in your home: If your home has older windows, heat loss, air leakage and drafts all contribute to your family's discomfort. For this reason, you will expect your heating and cooling systems to overcome this distress, which ends up meaning you have to deal with high energy costs. Nevertheless, Energy Star rated windows have greater insulation making the house feel cozier and warmer, or cooler than never before. Since you are likely to spend most of your time in the home, it goes without saying that you will want the place to be as inviting as possible. Moreover, these windows are able to block unwanted outside noise from entering the house. Many of them are built with sound insulation to ensure the home remains as quiet as possible. So, make your home comfortable and safe with energy efficient windows.
 

Another benefit of energy efficient windows is that it allows a clear view of the outdoors and also permits light to brighten your house. Additionally, when these windows are constructed with high quality materials, they add curb appeal and value to your property. 

High-Performance, Energy Efficient Windows in Chicago

Gone are the days when homeowners used to choose windows based on their design and style. Today, more and more homeowners are becoming energy-conscious and want to reduce the costs of heating and cooling their homes. Therefore, selecting energy efficient windows is a critical step for them.
 

Replacing your old windows could result in significant energy savings of more than 25%. Your choice for replacement windows will likely be based on the cost, style and the efficiency of the window. Now, double and triple pane windows are available on the market. So whether you are living in an old home that needs a window upgrade or building a new home, choosing energy efficient replacement windows is of paramount importance.
 

Window energy efficiency is usually measured by what is known as the U-Factor. Basically, a U-factor is the opposite of R-Value. For instance, an R-Value of 4 equals a U-factor of 0.25. The lower the U-factor, the more efficient a window is.
 

Some window materials are good conductors of heat and cold. This results in a lot of energy getting lost through the window. Aluminum is one of these materials that lose the most conditioned air. And steel conducts about 30% of heat or cold. This means that the most efficient window material is wood and vinyl. In fact, vinyl is nearly maintenance-free.
 

The next factor that is vitally important is the glass panes in the windows. Heat transfer can be significantly reduced by choosing double or triple pane styles. Some of these double-paned and tripled-paned windows have an area filled with inert gas (krypton or argon) that helps to further minimize heat loss. Argon-filled replacement windows are twice as efficient, saving you a lot of money on heating and cooling bills.
 

Most modern windows are also coated with special materials to protect against ultraviolet rays (UV-Rays) and infrared rays (IR). With this, window treatments, carpeting, and furniture are protected from early fading.
 

If your heating and cooling costs are increasing day by day, it’s likely that your home has inefficient old windows. So, it is a good time to consider having them replaced. This will not only save you money down the road, but will also increase the value of your home. 
 

Window Replacement and Energy Savings

If you have decided to replace your old windows, you have probably found out that there are a wide variety of window replacements available. All of them can add curb appeal and enhance the warmth and comfort of your home. This can also be a necessary step to be taken when you are preparing to sell your property to help make it more attractive to buyers.
 

If you spend a lot of money on your heating and cooling bills, installing energy efficient windows will definitely make a big difference for your pocket, as well as your home. During the long winter season, windows that have poor insulation are the source of increased condensation, heat loss and discomfort. By installing energy efficient windows or windows with a low U-factor, you’ll enjoy minimal condensation, warmer window surfaces, and reduced air leakage. Consequently, you’ll end up feeling more relaxed in your house. You will also be able to save a considerable amount of money on your monthly utility bills. For instance, if you buy thermally improved replacement windows that have low-E coating, a low U-factor and have a non-metal frame, you can save up to 25% on your heating bills each month.
 

Likewise, you will continue to enjoy the reduced cooling costs throughout the summer. Windows that are poorly insulated are a major source of heat transfer, forcing you to spend extra cash to keep air conditioning systems running so that the house can be cool. But, now you can purchase energy efficient windows that reduce heat gain, without affecting the view or the amount of incoming light.
 

It is also worth bearing in mind that not all modern replacement windows are energy efficient. For example, aluminum windows are known to be very poor when it comes to insulation, while wood, and vinyl windows offer superior insulation. You don’t want to invest your money on new replacement windows only to find out later that you’ve made a wrong choice. It is important to pay attention to your needs and the material of the window itself.
 

 

Buy Energy Efficient Windows

You will be surprised to find out that replacing your old windows with new efficient ones can bring a significant change in the general appearance of your home, in addition to saving you money on monthly utility bills. Of course, there are many options when it comes to replacement windows today, including wood, vinyl and aluminum windows. Installing high efficiency windows in your home will not only improve your property's curb appeal and save money, it also adds to the value of your home.
 

Typically, old windows often require regular repair and maintenance which may cost a lot. However, many do not know that replacement windows, such as vinyl, are in fact less expensive to have installed than spending money on all these annoying repairs time after time. Sometimes aged or rotten windows need to be replaced rather than simply being fixed. Not all problems associated with old windows can be reversed or repaired. Replacement is certainly the best option.
 

Reason for Getting Replacement Windows
 

1. Utility bills: Your monthly utility costs seem to be increasing without an obvious explanation. Of course, your existing windows may be to blame for this issue. This usually takes place when your old windows bring an unwanted amount of hot or cold air into your home. When you have leaky windows installed in your home, for example during the winter, you end up using more energy on heating while trying to keep your house warm. For this reason, replacing those windows is quite a wise choice. 
 

2. Drafty windows: If you have noticed your home becoming extremely hot on summer days or chilly cold during the winter, it may be a result of air leaks or poor sealing on your home windows. This could be a sure sign that you will need to have your current windows replaced.
 

3. Structural damage or cracks: Perhaps your window glass or frame has several cracks, making it difficult to see through. This can be the best time to consider replacing them with new and efficient windows, because simple repair work won’t make any significant difference.
 

4. Aged, washed-out or faded windows: If your home's windows look old, ugly, or extremely faded, it is time to consider replacing them. Such windows may attract pests and other vermin who will just wreck havoc in the house.
 

5. Frequent maintenance: In case you are spending a lot of money on regular maintenance and repair, doing away with such windows will save you money and from being stressed. The money you often spend on repair and maintenance can surpass the money you’ll save in the long run once you’ve got new windows installed.
 

6. Noise issues: Do your current windows allow unwanted external noise into your home? If so, then it is a perfect time to look for noise-resistant home windows.
 

7. Safety: Almost all older windows are single-pane glass windows which are typically very weak. Modern replacement windows come in double or triple-pane glass to offer ample security. Therefore, replacement windows prove effective when it comes to security. 
 

Investing in new, efficient home replacement windows may help you in many ways. New windows are easy to install and maintain. For example, vinyl replacement windows are almost maintenance-free. 

The Many Benefits of Energy Efficient Windows in Chicago

The U.S. government is trying to push every homeowner and business to embrace new energy efficient windows. Remodeling old structures and replacing inefficient windows with Energy Star windows has many benefits. Replacing your old windows with modern ones will add to the value of your home and help you save a great deal of money on monthly utility bills.

What is Energy Star? This is a joint program of the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A). The brand, ENERGY STAR is the only government-recognized symbol on energy efficient products. It was established to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and other poisonous substances caused by the use of inefficient products. Energy Star items can help save money on energy bills, protect the environment, and improve the overall performance and efficiency of your home.
 

The benefits of replacing your old windows with Energy Star rated windows are not just limited to your monthly energy costs. Opting for the Energy Star windows for your house is not only a lifestyle choice, but a wise financial decision. Besides saving you money on utility bills, these windows can help improve the overall look and feel inside your house since it prevents about 70 percent of sunlight from getting inside the house during the summer and it blocks a lot of heat from leaving the house during the winter. Not only does that help you save money on heating and cooling costs, but it also allows your loved ones to live comfortably and happily in your house day after day, regardless of the weather condition outside.
 

In the winter season, the morning frosts and the extreme cold air are a common thing to many individuals in Chicago and this can cause condensation problems. It is not easy to avoid window condensation during this time of the year. However, this condensation issue on windows can be significantly reduced with the installation of Energy Star replacement windows. These windows have been crafted using modern sophisticated technologies with Low-E glass coating, quality frames and warm edge spacers. By inhibiting the condensation process, you are certainly saving a substantial amount of money in repair and maintenance costs, as well.
 

If you are shopping for replacement windows and are not sure whether the window is Energy Star qualified, simply look for the original Energy Star rated tag or label. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and other third party independent organizations, thoroughly measures and tests all windows in need of the Energy Star rating label. This label can seem confusing and difficult to understand to the average person since there are many components and terminologies one needs to learn first, such as U-Factor (UV) and Visible Transmittance (VT).
 

Seeking a better understanding of these terminologies can help you make an informed decision when shopping for your new replacement windows. Even though an Energy Star rated window is a bit more expensive to purchase than the ordinary window, you will, in all probability, profit a lot in the long run as you will be able to save on the monthly utilities, and it will add to the value of your home, as well.  
 

Understanding High Efficiency Windows

Windows provides our homes with ventilation, warmth, light, and cool breezes, but they can also affect a home’s energy efficiency— mostly in a negative way. You can reduce your monthly heating and cooling bills by installing energy efficient windows in your home.
 

As a result of technological breakthroughs, advanced products and techniques are now available to craft stunning and energy efficient replacement windows that retain heat far better than the traditional way of crafting a window.
 

Energy efficient windows have a double or triple pane glass rather than just one. Moreover, modern windows have an air space between these two glass panes which has been filled with argon gas. This technique is meant to slow down or prevent the heat transfer through the panes.
 

A lot of heat is also wasted through the air space between the window space in the wall and the window frame. You’ve probably have had experienced a draft from leaking windows. But newer windows have rectified this problem through filling the gap around the window with insulation to prevent heat escaping from inside the house.
 

How to Select Energy Efficient Windows
 

If your home is set up with outdated windows, it makes more sense to replace them than to modify them so that they can be energy efficient. Although modern, efficient windows are pretty expensive to purchase, they eventually pay for themselves through lowering the monthly utility bills.
 

When you select the right type and hire a competent expert to install them, energy efficient windows can help reduce the amount of energy consumption in your home.  When selecting a window, you need to consider things like: window performance, design, and cost.
 

Prior to selecting new windows for your home, choose a type of replacement window that will work best. It is a wise idea to educate yourself about the energy performance ratings of windows in order to pick the right energy performance ratings that can match with your home’s design and the local climate.
 

If you are remodeling your home or constructing a new one, you should take full advantage of the new energy efficient windows as an integral part of your building project. There are a wide variety of options to choose from when it comes to selecting what type of window you want to purchase.

Windows are attractive to the eye and offer safety as well as ventilation features that are paramount to any home. Thus, your windows need to be more efficient if you want to make your home truly green.
 

All in all, it is a good idea to know about various window manufacturers and their prices—such as Andersen, Marvin, and Pella. Note that not all expensive windows are always the most effective and efficient options. So, be sure to make an informed decision.

The Energy Saving Benefits of Having New Windows Installed

Homes lose over one third of their heat through their doors and windows, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). But you can address this problem and save money by having your old windows replaced.
 

Although new energy efficient replacement windows are pretty expensive to purchase, in the long run, the savings you’ll make on your heating and cooling bills will surely offset the initial cost of purchasing them. Installing new windows will also boost the overall appearance of your home, and increase its value.
 

Old windows are typically less efficient compared to their modern counterparts. Also, damaged, peeling vinyl windows, termite-infested wood windows and other problems may signal that it is time to have those windows replaced. Carry out a detailed and thorough inspection of your windows to check for any sign of deterioration and replace them immediately.
 

As said before, this is an effective way to reduce your monthly energy consumption and give your property a new, attractive look. Energy efficient replacement windows come in a wide variety of colors, styles, and materials to meet your tastes and specific needs.
 

Today, windows are being crafted using state-of-the-art technology for greater performance and efficiency. Environmental sustainability and conservation concerns can be reduced with these new replacement windows. 
 

If your home is still set up with single-pane windows, you might be paying more on energy bills than you should. Replacing single-pane windows with double-pane windows will keep freezing cold air out while keeping heat in. You will save a lot on your monthly heating and cooling bills with these new windows.
 

Some modern replacement windows now have special coatings or insulation to protect them against extreme heat from the sun. Overexposure to the sunlight causes some of the components in your home to fade away. 
 

Even if your home doesn’t have those outdated windows, it doesn’t mean you are saving energy. The vinyl and aluminum frames installed in the past years, even with double pane or triple pane ones, still may not be as efficient as the latest ones. Though they may have a good insulation feature, they might be costing you a lot of money on energy bills.
 

There are tons of energy efficient replacement windows available on the market today that won’t drain your pocketbook. Even though you are not required to replace all your old windows with modern energy efficient ones, but if you really want to save money and enhance the value of your home, then you absolutely need to replace all of them. 
 

Compare the ratings of your older windows to the ratings on newest ones. You will be shocked at the amount of money you are losing just because of those old windows. Don’t allow that to continue breaking the bank–install new windows and start saving your hard-earned money.
 

When shopping for a new energy replacement window, check out all the options available on the market and select one that meets your needs. There are a wide variety of them, so be sure to make an informed decision.