New windows keep out the noise, cold, and heat, and they can improve a home’s appearance. But they’re expensive and require a substantial amount of construction work.
An “insert” or “frame-in-frame” replacement uses your existing frame, preserving interior and exterior trim. You can choose from stock sizes or a custom insert. Visit Website to learn more.
A window’s frame is arguably the most important element of the entire window, providing structural rigidity and a definitive aesthetic. The choice of frame material is a significant factor when making a replacement window purchase, as it will impact cost, energy efficiency and maintenance. The best window frames are constructed of durable materials that can withstand the elements and will last for years to come.
A frame can be made from wood, vinyl, aluminum or fiberglass, and each provides its own unique look. Wood frames offer a natural beauty and classic design that can be difficult to replicate with other materials, while vinyl offers low maintenance with a smooth surface that’s easy to clean. Aluminum is a modern alternative that’s both strong and lightweight, while fiberglass frames are extremely energy efficient and durable.
Frames can be built for new construction or for existing windows during a replacement project. They can be installed using a nail-in, a nail-on or a flush fin method. Nail-in frames are typically used for new construction projects. They can be built for either new or replacement windows and are usually built with a nail-in stud wall. Nail-on frames are a more versatile option for existing homes. They can be used for both replacement and new construction and are built with a nail-on stud wall, either on the interior or exterior of your home.
The window frame also includes the sill, or cill, which sits along the bottom of the window and is used to seal the opening. It can be topped with a trim piece or skirt to protect it from moisture, dirt and debris. The trim is often used to complement the color and style of the window and can be matched to the trim around doors in the home.
The most popular window frame material is wood, which is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. It has a timeless appearance, good insulating properties and is available in many different finishes to match any architectural style. While wood is an excellent choice for homeowners, it does require extensive protection from the elements and regular maintenance to avoid rotting and insect damage. In order to reduce the frequency of these maintenance tasks, wood frames are sometimes clad with aluminum or vinyl to increase durability and provide long-term weather resistance.
Glass
Window glass is a key component in how your home looks and functions. It is essential in maintaining the appearance and structural integrity of your windows and maximizing energy efficiency. Window glass is also the best barrier for preventing harmful UV rays from entering your home, which can have health consequences.
When choosing replacement windows, it is important to consider who manufactures the glass and what their reputation is for quality. If a company does not disclose this information or tries to deter you from researching it, that is a red flag. You can learn a lot about the quality of the window glass from online reviews and by searching for the brand name on the Energy Star label.
Glass replacement is a cost-effective option that can be used to repair single-pane windows or to replace double or triple pane insulated glass units (IGUs). It’s an ideal solution for homes with older, damaged windows in historic buildings that need to preserve the original architectural elements. It’s also an excellent choice for windows that need to be glazed in order to reduce condensation.
The best glass is made from a high-quality formula that provides superior durability, low-emissivity and light transmittance. It also comes with a weather-resistant seal that prevents water from seeping into the frame and causing moisture damage.
It’s also important to select glass with an appropriate thickness based on your specific needs. For example, you may choose to install thicker glass that will provide more insulation and lower your energy costs, or thinner glass that is designed for safety and security purposes.
In addition to insulating and reducing the amount of visible light entering your home, window glass can also protect against heat, cold, noise, dust and rain. It is also important to select glass that is treated with a special coating that helps reduce the amount of harmful UV rays entering your home.
It is important to know that replacing just the window glass will not be as effective as an entire replacement window, especially if the issue stems from issues with the window frame. It will only be a short-term, temporary fix for problems like air leaks or condensation between the window panes.
Insulation
The window is one of the most common places for heat loss in a home. A poorly insulated window or gaps around the frame can allow cold air to leak in during the winter and hot air to escape during the summer, robbing your house of energy. Gaps around windows can also provide access to moisture, causing mold and rot. Adding insulation and sealing these cracks can improve indoor comfort, reduce your utility bills, and extend the life of your window.
A good start is to replace any worn or damaged weather stripping or caulking that may be allowing air and moisture to enter your home. These sealants can be purchased from any home improvement store and are relatively inexpensive. There are several different types of caulking available, including silicone, latex, and paintable varieties. The type you choose will depend on the type of surface and its application. A caulking gun makes the job easier and provides a cleaner result.
You can also purchase foam strip insulation to fill any cracks or gaps. This product can be slid under the bottom of a double-hung window, and it prevents cold air from entering the house during the winter while also blocking warm air from escaping during the summer. Some people also use cling film to insulate their windows. This material can be applied to the inside of the glass and sealed using tape or the heat of a hair dryer.
Insulating film can be another cheap option for temporarily reducing energy costs until you can afford to upgrade to new replacement windows with a higher R-value. This type of plastic window film reduces solar radiation by reflecting the sun’s rays and absorbing the light that passes through the window. It can also help protect carpets and furniture from fading caused by UV exposure and hold in warmth during the winter. It can be installed using kits that include double-sided tape and a clear adhesive. Some kits also include a window tint that can be applied to the interior of the window to control solar radiation and reduce glare.
Installation
Whether it is a full frame replacement or pocket installation, it is important that the window be installed level and plumb. This will prevent energy loss through air leaks. The installer will use shims to ensure that the window is properly seated in the opening. These shims will also help prevent the window from bowing after installation. In addition, the installer will seal and caulk around the window as well as add insulation on both the inside and outside of the frame. This will promote optimal performance of the window as well as save the homeowner hundreds of dollars per year in energy costs.
Before the window is installed, the installer will lay drop cloths on both the inside and outside of the house to protect against dust and debris. In addition, they will wear eye protection and protective gloves. If they are replacing an operable window, the old sash will be removed first. They will then remove the parting stop, cut the sash cords and take out the sash weight pulleys and weights. The bottom sash will be lowered and the new window will be set into place. They will then install the new sash and reinstall the weather stripping.
If the window is a full frame replacement they will install the new window and brickmould together. This type of installation is typically done in older homes and new construction will use a different method.
The installer will also check to make sure the window is square before nailing down the sash and brickmould. He will use a level to do this and also hook his tape measure on the top of the window to keep it in place while he checks for square. He will also use a screw gun to install the sash and brickmould because nails can pull out of the wood. He recommends using GRK cabinet screws as they are the best in this application.
After the windows are installed, the installer will make a final inspection to make sure it is level and plumb. They will then fill any gaps less than 14 inch wide with elastomeric caulk. Anything wider than that should be stuffed with foam-rubber backer rod and then filled with low-expanding spray foam. After the foam has cured, the interior stop molding can be reinstalled and the window can be painted or stained as desired.