Spring is the perfect time for change – make a spring clean, reorganise or redecorate your home. This could also be a great time for domestic upgrades like window replacement. However, window replacement is not as easy as it may seem and there are certain things you need to know before you start.
Without further ado, here is our list of top 5 most important aspects of replacing windows:
1. It All Starts With A Plan
This when you decide what has to be done and how much of it you can handle without professional help (if any at all).
At this stage, it is important to investigate the current window and wall around it for the subject of any erosion.
In case there are significant issues with the wall or the construction frame of the window, you might need to rebuild more than just the window itself.
In case you are in this situation, we highly recommend it to get at least a professional advice (or get the whole thing by a contractor).
As soon as you are clear with the current state of the wall and window, with all the tasks and have obtained relevant advice, it is time to proceed.
2. Measurements Matter
Again, depending on the project itself (window replacement or new construction), you would need to measure different parameters.
When replacing windows, measure the internal width of the frame. In case you are going for new construction, you might need to take off some parts of decorative frame sidings to reveal the real width of your current structure. There might be required by the contractors during the booking or they will do everything in several visits.
Also, it is always better to get a smaller number than larger, as you can always fit a smaller window into a larger slot but not the opposite way around. In case you would like to increase your window opening with the new window replacement, be sure to get professionals involved as this will save you a lot of time, efforts and will guarantee you don’t destroy your home completely.
3. Not All Windows Are Inter-Compatible
If you do most of the work yourself, you should research what the compatibility of your current window frame and the new choice is.
For example, it is often impossible to combine different materials in the window.
Be sure to get all the answers before purchasing and installing the new window.
4. Various Types Of Windows
When you know for sure which windows are compatible with your current frame and construction, it is the time to decide what exactly you would like to get.
There is a variety of insulation methods and types to choose from. You can read more about all the different window insulation typess.
5. It Is Not Cheap
Last but not least, be sure to check the prices from several independent sources, get more than three quotes. Both window replacements and new constructions will probably get rather expensive.
Have a word with that neighbour that has been going through home renovation recently and get their advice. As soon as you’ve gone through all 5 points, you are ready to go with your
Home improvements are difficult, but with a bit of preparation and research, your windows will do fine.
Just don’t forget to clean them when you finish.
40 Windows Replacement Tips to Ease Installation and Change
Once you understand the research you need to undertake, the choices you need to make, and the best way to prepare for, and treat your new windows, upgrading the windows and glazing in your home as an absolute breeze.
So what do you need to know before purchasing new replacement windows? Read on for some great tips from Property Solvers – experts at selling houses fast.
Before you order your replacement windows, there are a few tips to take into account right at the start of your window replacement journey.
1. Mind Aesthetic before Installation
Look at your home’s facade. What kind of render does it have? Is it brick? Stone? Pebble dash?
Think carefully about the colours and styles of frames that will complement your home inside and out as well as which windows are compatible with your current frame.
There is a wide range of colours you can choose from – from white uPVC to natural or painted wood.
Furthermore, if you want new window frames that look like wood but don’t require that intense level of upkeep, you can opt to replace with wood-effect uPVC.
There really are dozens of options when choosing the frame alone. You should also think about the colour and style of your interior fittings – such as locks and catches – to make sure they match the rest of your home interior design.
When you replace your windows, there are many grid styles from which you can select. Do you want something that looks traditional or a little more modern – or do you want a grid at all? That’s entirely up to you.
2. Choose the Type of Windows Hinges
You can also choose the way your windows hang.
Styles include double-hung, awning-style, casement-style, fixed, hopper-style, and single-hung. Make sure that the ones you’re about to install do not conflict furnishing, drapery. Lights, and etc.
3. Consider what Glazing your New Windows have
Do you need double or triple glazing?
To increase the insulation capabilities of your windows, triple glazing may be better as it includes three glass panels containing two chambers of air.
This way, you’ll also improve your home’s energy efficiency and block out unwanted noise.
4. Mind Energy Efficiency of your upcoming Window Installation
As we just mentioned, the glazing you use can improve your home’s environmental impact and energy efficiency, so can choosing the right coating.
We recommend Low-E glass, which reflects solar heat and UV rays to prevent them from entering the home in summer. It will also bounce interior heat back into the room in winter to keep spaces warm.
5. Interior Visibility
Do you want more privacy?
Tempered, tinted or obscure glass will serve as protection against prying eyes.
6. Take Surroundings into Account
Noisy neighbours? Children playing ball games? Sun glare at certain times?
You can invest in extra sound insulation in the form of acoustic glass, treat yourself to safety panels or make things easier with tinted coating.
7. Is there a View?
Try not to impede beautiful views by your choice of design. Mullions and grids may lessen the effect of a gorgeous vista – so try to treat your windows like picture frames to capture the outside world in the best way.
8. Consider the Ease of Cleaning
If you’re thinking about cleaning some windows yourself, why not choose windows with a tilt-in setting to make this easier?
9. Think of Changing Doors at the Same Time
You’ll make greater savings over time if you replace all necessary fittings in one go. This also makes it easier to keep track of things like warranties.
10. Will They Fit Into Existing Frames?
If your frames are already in good condition, you may just need to replace the windows themselves, which will be cheaper.
11. Prioritise Safety
Make sure that your windows are lockable and hard to force from the outside or easily opened by children.
12. Lock Options
Decide whether you want a catch, a sash lock or a different type of security mechanism.
13. Do the New Locks Fit the Old Units?
If you aren’t replacing the frames, make sure the locks on the new windows match the ones that are already in place.
14. Window Guards?
If you opt for window guards, make sure they’re easy to open in an emergency and that everyone in your household knows how to use them.
15. Ease of Use
Future-proof your windows by choosing options that are easy to open, such as slider or casement windows to help as you get older.
16. Service Providers: Research
Read up on manufacturers online and look at their reviews. You want great quality – and to avoid pushy salespeople and rip-off artists where possible!
17. What is the Price?
You should get two or three quotes by shopping around for the best price. Always try to haggle the salesperson down to their bottom line.
18. Length and Type of Warranty
Make sure you totally understand the warranty you’re offered with the windows you purchase.
19. Warranty Forms
Check whether there’s anything you need to do – such as fill out any forms – to ensure that your warranty will come into effect with no hitches.
20. Get Insurance
Always make sure that the team undertaking your window installation is insured.
21. Use the Same Company for Purchase and Fitting
Sticking with the same business will prevent confusion and issues with communication.
Once ordered,
22. Store Carefully
If you aren’t fitting them straight away, lay your windows flat in a clean, dry place out of the way and put plastic between each layer of any stack.
23. Children
Keep climbable furniture and beds away from windows to prevent little ones from having any nasty accidents.
If installing windows yourself,
24. Enlist Help
It’s easier to position and affix windows with more than one pair of hands!
25. Check Measurements
Compare the sizes of your old windows and new ones before taking the first ones out.
26. Remember to Measure Diagonals
For a perfect square fit, be sure you’ve measured your windows’ diagonals, height, and width.
27. Remove Old Molding and Rotten Wood
Doing this will help your windows fit properly and will make their seals more effective.
28. Follow Instructions Carefully
Read all the paperwork you receive with your windows before you start to avoid mistakes.
29. Check All Sides and Corners are Plumb and Square Before Fitting
This will ensure each one opens and closes properly. You can prop up each one with blocks and adjust with shims to make them level.
30. Use ALL Screws Provided
If you leave any out, you may compromise your security or insulation.
31. Add Insulation
Your windows are a major part of ensuring your home retains heat, so this is extremely important.
32. Seal All Joints
This will improve security and help keep the heat in and the damp out.
Once installed,
33. Keep Windows Locked
Don’t just close your windows – lock them to keep them airtight and exclude drafts and moisture.
34. Clean Windows Regularly
Windows look better and last longer if they’re regularly cleaned!
35. Find a Window Cleaner
It’s far easier and safer to search the local area or online listings for someone who provides this service rather than taking it on yourself.
That’s why at Shiny Window Cleaning we take it to an level of art. We offer professional residential cleaning, commercial window cleaning, rinse and wash of conservatories, as well as expert gutter cleaning.
36. Be Careful When Cleaning Screens and Mesh
These items can be easily damaged. If you’re not sure how to do it, it’s best to rely on a professional.
37. Never Pressure Wash
Pressure washing windows will damage them. Use the proper equipment!
38. Keep Documentation
You need to know when your windows are going out of warranty. They may come with specific operational or cleaning instructions too, so keep all of your paperwork.
39. Keep Keys Secure
Losing your keys can become costly – if you can’t open or lock them properly, you’ll need to hire a locksmith. It’s also adds extra stress to selling your house, as the buyers will expect you to provide keys for all locks.
40. Repair Damage Immediately
Speak to a glazier or other professional immediately if any window becomes damaged, as this will cause problems with your security and insulation.
Final words,
Window replacement is tricky and we hope our tips and advice have shed some light over the matter. To remove and isntall will reqiure solid know-how or being able to handle the risk. When poorly replaced, your windows could cause a number of issues in the long term and that’s why professional advice is always a must.
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