Home Window Replacement is Top 3 Exterior Improvements, Time to Replace Yours?

How do I know when it's time to replace my home windows?

When Fall and Winter weather starts ganging up on the those summer days, a person can learn a lot about their home if they know what they are looking for. Have you ever seen the windows in your home start sweating (condensation)? This may or may not be an issue related to your window's efficiency. A common misconception is that a window that sweats should be replaced, when in actuality you might just have a very humid house. If there is fogging in between window panes, this could indicate a faulty seal. When you walk by your windows do you feel a draft? If yes, you probably need to have someone come out and look at your windows.

Home window replacement can seem like a daunting task, but we are here to help. Josh, resident window and doors expert at TrueSon Exteriors & Interiors, Columbia Missouri says homeowners should answer some questions before they jump into a window replacement project.

• How old are your existing windows?
• How long do you plan to be in your home?
• Are you looking to improve the appearance of your home?
• Do you want to increase the size of the windows in your home?
• What type of functionality are you looking for in a window? Fixed or Picture vs. Operational Windows?

In short, there are plenty of reasons to look into having your windows replaced, but if you are considering an upgrade, let us help guide you!

How long do home windows last?

Most window professionals believe a quality window should last 15-20 years. Getting straight to the point, windows haven't aged well in the past. The technology in just a short amount of time has really improved over the last 10-20 years. Even the cheapest windows made today are likely better than that 20-year-old window I your home. Improved energy efficiency and build quality are one thing, but even the best windows simply wear out over time.

Should I replace my windows if I plan to sell my home?

Believe it or not, the internet can be a wonderful resource. Take, for example, the various cost vs. value reports like the one Zonda releases yearly that can be found at places like www.remodeling.hw.net. Their data supports that window replacement is No. 3 for greatest return on investment for homeowners for exterior projects (replacing garage door is No. 1 and replacing siding is No. 2).

While the initial sticker shock of buying all new windows might be difficult to get past, replacing windows brings a 69% of cost recovered on resale which is really good. And you are likely to see real savings on your utility bills with new windows. Do you plan to stay in your home for a while? I mean no disrespect to the next owner of your home, but I'm not sure you'll get your return if you plan to move within a year or two of replacing windows.

Will replacing home windows make my home more energy efficient?

My wife drives a Prius. And one time she caught air jumping some damned railroad tracks - somewhere rural Missouri (true story). That was intense! It felt so wrong, yet so right at the same time. I'm not sure where I'm going with this, but maybe just to say "I get it". And as much as I didn't want her to buy a Prius initially, I have grown really fond of being able to drive anywhere in America on a full tank of gas. Windows are a great way to improve the energy efficiency of your home therefore extending the mileage of your paycheck.

Did you know if you live within the city limits of Columbia, Missouri you are eligible for a free residential energy assessment? Someone will come to your house for an onsite visit. They will look at your habits, equipment and structural issues so you can figure out just how good (or bad) your windows and doors are performing. They do this really cool air-tight test that checks for drafts in your home. You can find more information by calling them at (573) 441-5528.

Does my home insurance cover the cost of replacing windows?

We generally see windows being covered out of pocket by homeowners. Barring any natural accident of the weather-related variety, windows aren't typically covered under home insurance if they are just "old". Normal "Wear & Tear" isn't a category insurance generally covers. Insurance won't take into account the efficiency of your window, or the quality of the window in most cases.

Does a Home Warranty cover the cost of replacing windows?

This is a great question! The simple answer is, all home warranties vary. It would be best to check with your realtor or facilitator of your Home Warranty.

What type of window material should I choose?

There are generally 3 types of windows: vinyl, fiberglass and wood. Here are some things to consider for each:

Vinyl Windows

• Most cost-effective and budget friendly option
• Low-maintenance (painting not necessary and easy to clean)
• Avoid cheaper grade "recycled vinyl" products because they tend to fade or off-color

Fiberglass Windows

• Incredibly strong and durable reducing the risk of seal failure, long-term stability
• Withstands large temperature swings, outstanding resistance to outside elements
• Will never rot or corrode, resists chipping, chalking and fading, never repaint them

Wood Windows

• Long-lasting durability
• Natural beauty with intricately crafted designs and detailed craftsmanship
• Most customizable designs to achieve your desired aesthetic

What should you look for in a home window?

There are several factors here that one should consider. We highly recommend being diligent in your research if you are considering replacing windows. You will want to find a window brand that has been in the business for a while. A quality window will have a solid warranty but a warranty is no good if a company doesn't stay in business. You should find a company that puts their windows through rigorous testing, especially if you experience all the seasons in your area. What happens when it's 75 degrees one day an 30 the next? There are several manufacturers that fit this mold, but let me tell you why TrueSon Exteriors & Interiors likes to use Pella Windows and Doors.

TrueSon is an Elite Platinum Pella Certified Contractor Window Installer

The fact that TrueSon Exteriors & Interiors is an Elite Platinum Certified Contractor puts us in the top 1% of Pella's sales, nationwide. This means Pella values the work we do and they want to help maintain that relationship with us. Since 1925(you read that right), Pella has been one of the leading residential and commercial window and door leaders in the industry. Pella has been awarded more than 150 product and design patents which tells us they are always on the cutting edge. Pella is backed by one of the best warranties in the window and door business with a limited lifetime warranty which pairs well with the TrueSon Installation/Labor warranty.

The bottom line is that Pella is a brand that will always be there for your biggest investment. Whether that means finding a part for a window, new technology to keep up with the demand of energy efficient products, or trying to find that stylish look that Pella is also known for. It means that if you do your window or door business with TrueSon, you're going to have a quality product with a phenomenal warranty also backed by a labor warranty in a local company you can trust! Contact us today through our easy-to-use contact form!

Hurricane Clip - Construction Term or Band Name?

The actual meaning: Metal straps that secure the roof rafters and trusses to the top horizontal wall plate.

Verdict: I can't get the image of my wife jumping things in her Prius out of my head. "Hurricane Clip" is the perfect rap name for someone that has reached a certain level of street credit in the Prius game. "Hurricane Clip" spitting bars and jumping cars.

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