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Drive through any neighborhood in Northeast Florida built before 2000 and you’ll probably see windows that are outdated, unattractive, and provide poor energy efficiency. For example, many homes built more than fifteen years ago featured single-pane windows with aluminum frames. They once were state-of-the-art, but they’re not anymore. Another popular style from the last century was jalousie windows with glass louvers. There are also many old casement windows which no longer close all the way.
Four
Ways to Determine Whether it’s Time for New Windows
1.
Take a good look from outside. Along with
the condition of the lawn and the paint or siding, the windows are one of the most
important contributors to the curb appeal of any house. Windows can enhance the
appearance of a home or they can detract from it and make the home look run-down.
The difference between houses that have modern windows and those that do not is
very obvious.
2.
Take a look inside. If you consistently see
moisture on the inside of your windows, it’s an indication that your windows need
to be replaced. In addition, old windows don’t provide protection
from the sun’s
ultraviolet rays. This can result in fading in carpets, rugs, and furniture. Upgrading
to more energy efficient windows can reduce this type of fading and extend the life
of household items.
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3.
Check for drafts. During the winter months,
it’s very easy to feel cold air coming in through old windows. When it gets hot
out and the AC is running, check outside around old windows to see if cold air
is seeping out of the house, along with your hard-earned money.
4.
Open and close the windows. This should
be easy with windows that are operating correctly. There should be no sticking.
If the windows rattle when you open and close them, they have probably loosened
up over the years. Windows that no longer seal properly allow air to pass
through like vents to the outdoors. Also, the locks should open and close
easily. If they don’t open easily, you probably won’t use the windows for ventilation
very often. If they don’t lock easily, that could create a security problem for
you and your family.
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New windows can dramatically improve the energy efficiency
of a home. Modern windows pay for themselves over time through savings on electric
bills. Also, windows that keep the cold air in during the summer and out during
the winter reduce wear and tear on a home’s AC and heating system. Those systems
are very expensive to repair and replace. When they don’t have to run as much, they
last longer.
Modern
Windows
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| Courtesy of HomeRiteJacksonville.com |
Aluminum was popular for a long time and excellent windows
are still being made with aluminum. On the
other hand, vinyl has become the material of choice for many installations. One
of the nicest things about new vinyl and aluminum windows is that they don’t require
a lot of maintenance. They don’t need to be painted year after year to maintain
a beautiful appearance.
Wind
Protection
Jacksonville hasn’t had a direct hit from a hurricane
since Dora in 1964. On the other hand, residents
of Northeast Florida encounter
tropical storm force winds with alarming frequency. New windows that comply with
current construction codes provide far better protection from high winds than windows
built into many homes in decades gone by. For extra protection from high wind and
debris, impact windows with strengthening material between the panes of glass are
very effective. The cost differential
for many people is well worth it versus the expense of repairing the damage caused
by a storm flooding your home.
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| Courtesy of HomeRiteJacksonville.com |
Noise
Reduction
In addition to reducing energy costs and improving the
appearance of a home, new windows can reduce the levels of noise from outside. Upgraded
windows keep unwanted sound out as well as the weather. If noise from street traffic
or the neighborhood children is bothersome, new windows can make an enormous difference.
The peace and quiet some homeowners experience after installing updated windows
is often a very pleasant surprise.
Select
the Right Windows
There are more choices in windows now than ever before.
Options include aluminum and vinyl, single-hung windows, double-hung windows, casement
windows, and specialty windows. The possibilities aren’t endless, but they can be
challenging to sort out. A professional window contractor will help homeowners select
windows that will make any home more attractive and energy efficient.
Measurements are one of the keys to a good installation. Windows
that don’t fit the openings properly may be prone to warping when the weather changes.
Another important factor for a successful installation is trained and experienced
installers. HomeRite Windows and Doors will get the measurements right and will
install the windows correctly so that they fit perfectly, operate smoothly, and
look beautiful.
In this article, I have
provided some of the key things to help you determine if it’s time to replace
their windows. It is an investment that can pay off in energy saving and add
beauty, value and comfort to their home.
Here are some related
article you may want to also read. Small Windows That Make a Big Statement, How Do You Check for a Leaky House? and Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal.
If you would like to
receive an official factory authorized 30% discount coupon for your
next window replacement purchase, print out this article with the coupon on it
and bring it with you when visiting HomeRite.
Gates Dearen is the
co-owner of HomeRite Windows and Doors in
Jacksonville, Florida. Owners Dearen and Richard Walden have been
serving the building products industry in Florida for over
25 years. They know the products, the industry, the market and what
adds great value to a home. Their approach is somewhat different than
others. They strive to match the homeowner with the
right windows and doors for their home and budget. They know that
some home improvement projects can be a hassle. They strive to make the
process pleasant with first-rate, energy efficient products;
affordable prices; and expert, award-wining installers that
employ the best practices and who respect your home as if it
were their own.
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