The difference a window can make in a room is absolutely stunning – and when that same window starts to look old or gets a big crack right up the center pane, it can also bring the room down with it. Broken or outdated windows can leak heat, costing you more money down the road, and if they’re particularly shabby, may bring down the value of your home as a whole.
Replacing your window is an easy way to rectify all of these issues. New innovations in energy efficiency and fresh designs mean that no matter what kind of replacement window you choose, your home is more than likely to benefit from it. However, if you’re still unsure as to what kind of windows you want – or if you’re ready to change out your windows at all – there are four good questions you can ask to help narrow your options and choose the right replacement windows for your home.
Is it the Right Time for Replacement Windows?
First things first: do your windows need replacing? Some have obvious signs of wear and tear, such as warped frames, peeling paint, and cracked or chipped glass panes. Others may be invisible to spot, but you’ll notice the difference on your heating or cooling bill. If your charges have been steadily increasing, regardless of the weather or your usual habits, there’s a good chance that your windows aren’t conserving as much energy as they originally did.
Full-Frame or Retrofit?
A retrofit window installation means that your new window would be placed into the already-existing window frame. This is easily the fastest option for replacing your windows, but what if the frame itself is damaged by water or age, or if you want to put in an entirely new style of window altogether? In that case, you’ll likely need a full-frame installation. As the name suggests, this replaces both the window and its frame, interior trim, exterior bricks and support, and new jambs.
While a full-frame replacement is definitely more expensive than a retrofit, due to the number of items being replaced, it’s also a great way to drastically change the look of your home for a relatively low up-front cost. Window alterations tend to generate around a 90% return on investment when it comes to curb appeal. Of course, if you like the look of your home as it is and the window frame is still in great shape, the simplicity of a retrofit might be all you need.
What are Your Goals for Your Replacement Window?
You wouldn’t know it by looking at them, but windows work hard every day. Figuring out what role you want your new replacement window to fill can make it easier to narrow your choices down. For example, do you want your window to:
- Showcase the natural beauty of the outdoors?
- Help conserve energy and save you money on heating & cooling bills?
- Improve how your home looks?
- Provide easy and efficient airflow to your home?
- Open easily and smoothly for home members who have challenges with mobility?
If your goal is to be able to better enjoy the sight of that maple tree in the backyard, your replacement window will likely feature a large, clear pane of glass to show off your backyard like a living picture. If you want to get some air in the kitchen while you’re cooking, the glass won’t be as important as the ability to tilt the window in or out as you need.
What Kind of Budget are You Working With?
One of the biggest and easiest mistakes to make is to begin shopping for replacement windows without a definitive budget in mind. The cost of replacement differs depending on where the window is, what it’s made out of, and what style of installation is required.
As a general rule, you should expect to spend between $400-$1200 per window (again, bear in mind that larger bay windows will be more expensive than sliding, single-hung, or bedroom window replacements). Many suppliers, like Kempenfelt Windows & Doors, will offer you a free estimate of your costs before you commit to the project. This allows you to make a decision you can be confident in, and avoid any unwanted surprises later down the road.
Kempenfelt Windows & Doors has been Barrie’s favourite window and door company for over 21 years, and we take pride in making sure our customers enjoy the best windows for the best prices. We have two showroom locations, allowing customers to closely examine their selections before installation. If you’d like to learn more about our selection of replacement windows, call our Barrie location at (705) 737-1554 or our Newmarket office at (905) 895-1554. You can also contact us online.
