Window replacement offers great benefits to homeowners, from reducing the costs of energy bills to increasing the home’s resale value. The right windows also protect you and your family from external elements.
Even though window replacement holds so many benefits, you may end up missing out on them especially if you don’t seek professional advice. There are different ways of replacing windows. How you replace your window may affect its durability and overall outcome. This article discusses the different ways of replacing windows and factors to consider when replacing your windows.
Approaches To Window Replacement
Pocket Window Replacement
The pocket window replacement is the simplest method of replacing a window. The old wood frame will not be discarded. Instead, your contractor will install a full window unit into the old frame. However, the sashes will be replaced with an insert.
Suppose your house is an old one with solid wooden frames that are not rotten. Then pocket window replacement may be a good option for you. It’s also perfect if you don’t want to tamper with the interior and exterior trim. You don’t have to repaint the exterior trim. And just like you may have guessed, the pocket window replacement is pocket-friendly.
They also require less labor and are available in tilt-cleaning.
Sash-only Replacement
The sash-only method also allows you to use the old window frame. However, they must be in good condition. It’s used to replace the lower and upper sashes and the old jamb liner system. The sash kits come with jamb liners and new sashes to ease installation. You can get the packs in all-wood or aluminum clad.
If your window has a double-hung opening, then you can use the sash-only replacement approach. It’s also perfect for homeowners looking to preserve the historical appearance of the area.
Full-frame Window Replacement
For the full-frame replacement, you will be removing the entire old window. This includes the exterior trim, casing, sash, and the frame. The only thing that would be left is the initial stud pocket. Although it requires hard labor, the approach is ideal if you have the old and rotten frames, trims, or sills.
Most of the vinyl windows in modern homes use the full-frame replacement method. With this method, you don’t have to worry about losing your glazing. You can also insulate the window frame to save cost on energy bills further.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Window Replacement Method
With the different ways of replacing windows, deciding the right window replacement method for your home may be challenging. However, below are some of the factors that can help you make the right choice.
- Your Home’s Architecture
Before you choose the right replacement method, consider the architecture of your home. For example, the sash-only method works well for traditional and historic buildings, while the full-frame replacement works for contemporary houses.
- Installation process
Ensure you know the installation process before you decide on the best method. While some methods are easy and require no hard labor, others require expertise and can’t be done with the DIY approach. Therefore, ask your supplier for confirmation.
- Maintenance
The lifespan of your new windows depends on how well you’re able to clean and maintain them. However, different windows require different maintenance approaches. For example, the sash-only replacement comes with tilt-cleaning, which makes it easier to maintain.
- Your Budget
Before you start your window replacement project, ensure you have a set budget. This will help you to work within your budget. Inform your contractor about your budget and specifications. Your contractor will work within your budget and choose the right approach for you.
- Expertise
You need to consider the expertise and experience of your contractor before you choose a method. While there are window replacement methods that can be done with little to no experience, some require a high level of expertise. For example, if you’re choosing the full-frame window replacement, you must ensure your contractor is well-experienced.
- Timeframe
The process of installation of different replacement methods differs. If you’re in a hurry, communicate with your contractor so they can choose a method that can be quickly completed.
Choosing the right method when replacing your window matters a lot. If you’re still unsure of the best method, then involve a professional contractor. They have the experience and knowledge to help you make the right choice. They will also inspect your old windows and make the right choice based on their findings.
