High-quality and well-maintained windows can last for up to 30 years. However, your windows’ life span and condition depend on external factors outside your control. As a homeowner, you will need to replace your windows at least once if you remain in the same house for over 20 years.
The Role Your Windows Play
Windows are an important addition to your home for many reasons. The addition of windows in a home simultaneously makes it more bright and cheerful. It also saves us money on utility bills by providing abundant natural light during the day.
Providing light isn’t the sole function of windows, however. They are also an extra safety measure in a home. When a door is accidentally locked or there is a fire, windows are the first thing we turn to as an escape route. Any contemporary home design must factor in safety during an emergency, so windows are absolutely necessary for both aesthetics and the safety of your home.
Signs of Window Damage
Some signs of window damage are more visible than others. There are more subtle signs of window damage that any homeowner should be made aware of, including:
- A drafty home: If your home feels drafty in certain rooms or has rooms that are colder than others, there is likely a hidden air leak.
- Increased noise: Older windows or low-quality glass can mean that your windows don’t reduce outside noises the way they should.
- Mold and mildew: If your home has mold or mildew on the interior, your windows could be the cause. Any gaps around the edges can allow for water to get inside when it rains or snows.
Window Replacement Materials
Have you decided that window replacement is necessary but are unsure what to do next? There are a wide variety of window replacement options to consider before making a final decision about the best choice for your home:
Vinyl Windows
If you decide to go for vinyl windows, ensure they meet Energy Star® standards. Windows help to conserve energy, so if the authority on energy conservation gives them a thumbs-up, then you’re good to go. Any reputable window installation company will include a warranty on the glass breakage, so make sure you include this on your criteria too.
Vinyl windows are a low-maintenance option because they are energy-efficient and easy to care for. They don’t need to be painted, stained, or refinished. If you’re someone who likes to save time on home maintenance, vinyl windows are a smart choice.
Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass windows are another low-maintenance option that can withstand extreme temperatures. They are usually more expensive than vinyl, so bear that in mind when you’re contemplating what windows to buy. However, fiberglass windows are created to more closely simulate the appearance of wood, so if you want the look of wood without the maintenance, fiberglass is a strong contender.
Wood/Clad Wood Windows
If the aesthetic appeal of your home is a top priority, it’s difficult to match wood or clad wood windows. If you want to achieve a classic look, this type of window really accentuates the beauty and craftsmanship of a more traditional home. Wood windows are also excellent insulators, so they are beautiful and practical at the same time.
Velux Skylights
Velux skylights are a great way of adding light to a dark room because they are designed to be installed in the roof or ceiling. This means that you can improve the overall appearance of a room without incorporating spacing for wall windows into the mix.
The Benefits of Window Replacement
Installing or replacing your home’s windows comes with many benefits. Windows have the power to really help the interior and exterior of your home blend together. Some other benefits include:
- Increasing your home’s value and safety
- Improved energy efficiency
- Easier cleaning and maintenance
- Ease of use
- Better curb appeal
Choose Beyond Exteriors for Your Home’s Window Replacement Services
A new set of windows can transform your home, and hiring professionals with the experience and expertise to properly install your windows is a must for the best results. Beyond Exteriors proudly provides homeowners in Northern Virginia and the surrounding area with expert window services.
Our team of professional installers has a long-standing reputation for outstanding workmanship and reliability, ensuring that your home’s comfort and safety needs are always met.
