If you’re like most people, your windows are probably starting to show their age. They may be drafty and leak air, or they may have cracked glass that is hard to clean.
Although replacing old windows can seem intimidating at first, it doesn’t have to be.
Replacing your old windows with new ones will not only improve the look of your home but also add significant value when you decide to sell in the future.
In this article, we’ll discuss mistakes with replacing windows that many homeowners make and how you can avoid them.
1. Selecting the Wrong Type of Window
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is selecting the wrong type of window for their home.
There are many different types of windows available on the market, so it’s important to choose one that will be best suited for your needs.
For example, if you live in a cold climate and you want to replace your old windows with new ones that will better insulate your home, then you should select a window with an R-value rating of at least R-12.
If you only need to replace the glass rather than get a full window replacement, consult with a glass repair service.
2. Using the Same Windows You’re Replacing
Another common mistake homeowners make is using the same windows they’re replacing. This can be a big mistake, as the new windows may not fit properly into the existing window frame.
In order to avoid this problem, it’s important to measure your window frames carefully and select windows that are the correct size.
If you’re not sure how to do this yourself, consult with a professional who can help you measure your windows correctly.
3. Choosing Windows Based on Price
One of the mistakes homeowners make when replacing old windows is choosing their windows solely based on their price.
While it’s important to choose a window that fits your budget, you should also look for one that has good insulation and provides energy savings.
In addition, you might want to consider investing in double-pane or triple-pane glass if your home tends to get very cold during the winter months.
This will not only cut down on drafts but help keep heat inside so that you don’t have to increase your heating bill by turning up the thermostat.
Although most people associate expensive items with higher quality, this isn’t always true of replacement windows.
It’s best not to limit yourself based on price alone and instead focus on the window’s features and benefits.
4. Not Factoring in Your Location
When selecting replacement windows, it’s important to take your location into consideration.
Windows that work well in one climate may not work as well in another. For example, if you live in a hot climate, you’ll want to select windows that have a low U-factor rating.
This will help keep the heat out during the summer months and keep your home cooler.
In contrast, if you live in a cold climate, you’ll want to select windows with an R-value rating of at least R-12.
Failure to factor in your location when selecting replacement windows can lead to problems such as increased energy bills and drafts from the window.
To avoid this, be sure to consult with a professional who can help you select the right windows for your home.
5. Not Considering Your Home’s Design
Another mistake homeowners make when selecting replacement windows is not considering their home’s design.
Windows come in many different shapes and sizes, so it’s important to select ones that will complement the look of your home. For example, if you have a traditional-style home, you’ll want to select windows that have a more traditional look. On the other hand, if you have a modern-style home, you’ll want to select windows that have a more modern look.
Failure to consider your home’s design can result in windows that don’t match the rest of your home or look out of place. To avoid this problem, be sure to take into account the style of your home when selecting replacement windows.
6. Not Paying Attention to the Windows Security Rating
Another mistake homeowners make when replacing their old windows with new ones is not paying attention to the window’s security rating.
If you want your home and family to be safe, it’s important that you select a replacement window with a good U-factor and one that provides maximum protection from intruders.
In addition, if your windows don’t have locks installed on them or are difficult to lock in place, consider adding these features before selecting your replacement windows so that you can rest easy knowing that no one will break into your home when you’re away.
Failure to pay attention to the security rating of replacement windows can leave your home vulnerable and increase its chances of being broken into by thieves looking for an easy target.
To protect yourself and your family, be sure to take the security rating of replacement windows into account.
7. Being Tricked by a Salesperson Into Buying the Wrong Windows
Lastly, one mistake homeowners make when replacing their old windows with new ones is being tricked by a salesperson into buying the wrong window.
This can happen if you don’t have any knowledge about replacement windows or what to look for before meeting with a professional installer of these products.
For example, some contractors might use high-pressure tactics in an attempt to convince you that your home needs certain types of replacement windows without doing much research first on whether they’re right for your house and budget.
To avoid this problem, be sure to read online reviews from previous customers who may have received similar services from the contractor in question, as well as the different types of replacement windows.
Being tricked by a salesperson into buying the wrong windows can be costly and result in you having to replace them again in the near future.
To avoid this, be sure to do your research before meeting with a professional installer so that you know what to look for and what questions to ask.
Avoid These Mistakes With Replacing Windows
As you can see, there are many mistakes with replacing windows. Avoiding these mistakes can help you save time and your hard-earned money.
Do you want to learn more about replacing old windows or other home improvement advice? If so, check out more of our articles.
