Understanding the Importance of Installing Quality Replacement Windows

Windows are a decorative as well as a very practical feature of almost every home. Unfortunately, as a house get older, its windows will eventually begin to show their age. In such cases, replacement windows must be selected and properly installed. Thankfully, there are numerous models from which one can choose when buying windows. Every effort should be made to choose a model that will not only provide energy efficiency but also improve the exterior of the home.

Single glazed windows were often used in homes built prior to the 1970s and although such windows allowed plenty ventilation and light into the home, they were not energy efficient and did little to keep heated air in and cold air out in the winter. Needless to say, they were also inefficient with regard to keeping the home cool in the summer.

Replacing windows is a project that a homeowner should delegate to a professional window contractor rather than attempt to complete the task on his or her own. Hiring professional window contractors is the best way to ensure the job is done correctly. The contractor will measure the window precisely in order to make sure that appropriate size is purchased.

Use the existing casements is a possibility when purchasing replacement windows. Such an option provides a slightly smaller amount of pane than was previously in place; however, the installation of the windows is easier when this option is selected.

Humidity changes have a significant effect on older windows. Following a rainstorm, the homeowner may have difficulty opening or closing his or her windows. This is because swelling as a result of the humidity has probably occurred. When the air becomes dryer, the old windows may  loosen in their tracts, resulting in noise and air leaks.  The replacement of old windows with the use of vinyl inserts is an excellent avenue through which the home's aesthetic appeal can be preserved while at the same time allowing the homeowner to enjoy new windows that function properly.

Additionally, switching from wood to vinyl windows can prevent the continual task of repainting and re-glazing older window models, as most vinyl replacement windows retain their color for the life of the window.

Many window models from the 1950s features aluminum frames. Such frames were better than wood windows in many ways, but certain problems were associated with these models as well, including the fact that aluminum is a poor insulator. Aluminum frames attract moisture, leading to mold buildup in the home. 

When double glazed windows first hit the market, it was discovered that many of the models were not sealed properly, allowing moisture to condense between the glass panes. Condensation is a typical sign of the window's insulating failure. Problems such as this can be solved by the purchase of replacement windows and the hiring of a qualified contractor who can complete the installation properly.