Window Replacement Rockville MD projects require accurate measurements of the existing rough openings. Then the contractor can carefully remove the old window, making sure not to damage the wall and frame.
Consider a full-frame replacement, which adds a new sill and trim around the window, or an insert replacement. Both give you more options than standard windows designed for new construction.
There are a wide range of window styles, materials and types. Homeowners decide which type of windows to purchase based on climate, functionality, privacy, budget and architectural design. When it comes to selecting a replacement window, homeowners have even more options to consider. For instance, there are different types of frame materials such as vinyl and wood. There are also different glass types such as tinted, insulated and double-paned. There are also a variety of accents to choose from including muntin bars (removable vertical and horizontal timbers that appear to divide a window into a grid of small panes) as well as Astragal Bars, Georgian Bars or Mock Horns, which are decorative flourishes that adorn the top corners of the window casing.
Window frames come in various shapes and sizes as well. Some frames are made from wood, while others are made from metal or composite materials. Some frame materials are better insulators than others. Metal, for example, conducts heat very quickly and can increase your energy costs. Wood, on the other hand, is a natural insulator and helps reduce energy costs.
When choosing a replacement window, you should also take into consideration the size of the window and its location in your home. For example, an awning or casement window that opens from the top is a good choice for windy and rainy climates because it provides a more secure seal than a sliding window. However, these styles do not provide access to the air conditioner, so if you live in a hot climate you might want to reconsider this type of window.
Sliding windows operate horizontally along a plastic or metal track. They are available in double- or single-hung versions, where one or both sashes can be opened. Awning and casement windows open by turning a crank, rather than swinging out like doors, which is an advantage for hard-to-reach areas of your home.
If you’re shopping for replacement windows, look for a manufacturer that is a member of the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to ensure high quality. You should also consider the window’s U-factor and condensation resistance, as these are critical to your comfort.
Appearance
Homeowners are increasingly interested in replacing old windows with new ones that maximize light and provide views of the surrounding landscape. These windows also help to keep the air in a home more stable, which will save energy. Natural light is known to stimulate the brain and create a positive mood, making it important for an office or a living space. Window replacement in West Covina will allow homeowners to enjoy the beauty of their property.
There are two types of replacement windows available: fixed and sash units. Fixed windows are those that do not have moving parts and are often called single-light or double-light windows. Sash units, on the other hand, are those that have movable windows – either sliding or slidable – and usually consist of two lites (or panes) each. There are several different options for window sashes, including double-hung windows and casement windows.
Muntins and mullions are the pieces of wood that sit in between window panes to make a cross-like pattern. Some muntins and mullions are decorative, while others actually support the panes. Whether they are real or faux, when these parts get damaged it is important to call your local Mr. Handyman to repair them.
Increasingly, value-conscious consumers are no longer captive to standard fat white synthetic frames that shout “replacement window.” Instead, they can choose from a variety of durable composite frames with wooden appearances. Homeowners can even replace the sashes, which are the parts of the windows that hold the glass, with narrow profiles for a more Colonial-style look.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a key feature to consider when choosing a replacement window. A window’s ability to retain and conserve energy depends on its frame material, glazing type and insulating properties. At Window World, we recommend vinyl windows for homeowners because they offer superior insulation compared to other materials, such as aluminum and wood. We also recommend double- or triple-pane glass as opposed to single pane. Single-pane windows allow heat to escape during the winter and air to enter during the summer, increasing your heating and cooling costs. Double or triple-pane windows will keep your home more comfortable year-round, reducing energy consumption and saving you money on utility bills.
A good way to determine the energy efficiency of a window is to look for the ENERGY STAR label, which is used by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to help consumers identify energy-efficient products. ENERGY STAR certified windows have been tested to ensure they reduce heat transfer and meet a certain climate zone’s requirements for insulation.
ENERGY STAR windows are typically more efficient than non-certified windows, but the exact amount of savings you will realize will depend on where you live and the type of window you choose. Generally, replacing old inefficient windows with new Energy Star windows can save homeowners 12 to 13 percent on energy bills.
To maximize the energy efficiency of your replacement windows, select Low-E glass with an argon gas fill, which helps reduce energy loss by keeping the window closer to room temperature. Argon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that offers excellent insulating properties and has a lower thermal conductivity than air. It is also a safe and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional krypton or mercury vapor fills.
Another option is to install awnings or exterior shading, such as shutters, on the outside of your home to block out sunlight and limit heat gain. In addition, you can add weather stripping and caulking around the frames to reduce air leaks. Lastly, it is important to hire a professional window replacement contractor that specializes in installation and can ensure proper insulation and sealing.
Installation
If you’re replacing an existing window, it is important to properly install the new window. This is critical to ensuring that the window will seal and operate correctly.
Ideally, the window should be installed from the inside of your home. This minimizes the amount of exterior work needed and allows for a neater installation. However, in some situations, especially with full frame replacements and specific window types, it may be necessary to install the window from the outside.
Before beginning the installation, the window opening should be cleaned thoroughly and any repairs made. If the sill is rotted, it should be replaced. It is also a good idea to clean out any dust or debris that may have collected in the frame opening. Next, a sheet of flashing tape should be applied to the nailing fin. This will shed water that may get between the exterior sheathing and the window, keeping it away from the house and preventing moisture damage.
The window should then be inserted into the opening and secured with shims. Using a level, check that the window is both level and plumb (square) in the frame opening. If it is not, the windowsill will not be able to seal properly and moisture may leak into the home. Once the window is in place, use shims to adjust it as needed, being careful not to shim too much.
Lastly, apply a bead of exterior caulk around the edge of the window and press it firmly in place against the flashing tape. This will help prevent moisture from seeping into the frame and damaging the wood and insulation. It is also a good idea to caulk the interior trim molding and any jamb extensions that may be needed to fully secure the frame in place.
It’s important to choose a window that is the same size or slightly smaller than the existing window. This will ensure that the existing frame will not be removed and the structure of the home is not compromised. Lastly, it’s important to purchase the windows before tearing out your old one, this will allow you to promptly close up the opening.