Residential Window Replacement
When your windows start showing signs of age, such as drafts, condensation, or difficulty closing and opening, it's time to consider replacing them. Investing in this improvement project can significantly improve energy efficiency while restoring and enhancing aesthetic appeal.
At Local Glass Repairs LLC, our high-quality replacements create a tighter seal, preventing air leaks and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature year-round. By upgrading your windows, you can also reduce solar heat gain, protecting your other belongings, like furnishings, from fading.
For expert residential window replacement services, call (206) 778-5763.
Signs You Need a Window Upgrade
Over time, your windows can deteriorate, compromising their functionality and aesthetic quality. Timely replacements allow you to maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient space. If you're experiencing frequent drafts or noticing condensation between panes, it's likely time for a replacement.
Here are a few other signs you need you need a window upgrade:
- Drafts or air leaks
- Difficulty opening/closing windows
- Warped or rotting frames
- Fading or peeling paint on window frames
- Outdated or damaged hardware
- Excessive exterior noise infiltration
- High energy bills due to poor insulation
- Visible cracks or holes in the glass
Window Replacement Process: What's Involved?
Replacing windows in your home is a multi-step process that incorporates your needs and concerns from a detailed initial consultation to ensure a seamless and successful project.
Here's what you can expect throughout the window replacement process:
- Window selection: You'll choose the type, material, and style of windows that best suit your home's design, energy efficiency goals, and personal preferences.
- Preparation: We'll take precise measurements and prepare the window openings for installation, ensuring a proper fit.
- Removal of old windows: The existing windows are carefully removed, typically starting with the sashes (the moveable panels) and then the frame itself, which might require unscrewing it or carefully prying it loose from the wall opening.
- Installation: The new windows will be securely installed, ensuring proper sealing and insulation for optimal performance.
- Finishing touches: Interior and exterior trim work will be completed, providing a polished and seamless appearance.
- Final inspection: We'll examine how your windows are secured within the openings, how they open and close, and whether the sealing and caulking are sufficient.
Types of Windows: How to Choose Yours
Different windows are known for their durability and functional or aesthetic specifications.
Here are a few window types and their key characteristics:
- Single-pane: Single-panes consist of one layer of glass, which can be ideal for sheds or basements where insulation isn't a priority. They're a budget-friendly option but typically not as energy-efficient.
- Double-pane: An extra pane provides good insulation and noise reduction. It's the standard choice for most homes, offering a balance of affordability and efficiency.
- Aluminum frame: Lightweight and great for large windows or doors, aluminum frames provide a modern aesthetic but conduct heat and cold easily.
- Vinyl frame: Affordable, low maintenance, and a great insulator (which can lower energy costs), vinyl's downside is that it may not be suitable for certain architectural styles (traditional or period-specific styles).
- Fixed window: Fixed windows provide unobstructed views and natural light, ideal for scenic locations or rooms facing the sun. However, they can't open to let in the fresh air.
- Operable windows: These windows allow for better ventilation and fresh air. They're also available in various styles (casement, slider, awning) to suit your needs and space.
- Low E-coating: This material, containing invisible layers of metallic oxide, improves energy efficiency by reflecting heat in summer and retaining heat in the winter (works with single or double panes).
Why should you replace your windows?
A study conducted by the U.S. Department of Energy found that inefficient windows are accountable for nearly 30% of energy loss in residential homes. Are your windows responsible for 1/3 of your monthly energy bill? If your windows are more than a decade old or if you have single-pane windows they might be.
Reduce monthly utility bills
Your air conditioning system works hard to keep your home cool in the summer. If your home has inefficient windows your air conditioning system is working overtime. Give your air conditioner a break this season by upgrading your old, drafty windows to energy-efficient, double-pane windows. Double pane windows can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills as well as keep the interior of your home at the proper temperature.
What Are the Key Features of Energy-Efficient Windows?
Energy-efficient windows are designed to keep your indoor temperature comfortable while using less energy. Many old, damaged, or traditional windows are like sieves for heat, allowing free flow in and out. Energy-efficient windows combat these issues by creating a more significant barrier to heat transfer.
Here are some of the features that these types of windows typically have:
- Multiple panes of glass (double or triple-pane)
- Low emissivity (Low-E) coatings that reflect heat
- Insulating gas fills like argon or krypton between the panes
- Warm edge spacers that reduce heat transfer around the glass perimeter
- Durable, insulated frame materials like vinyl, fiberglass, or wood
- Tight weatherstripping and seals to prevent air leakage
Increase curb appeal
Not only will new windows fulfill practical needs, but the right windows can improve the curb appeal of your home tremendously. To honor the tastes of our Burien clientele, Local Glass Repairs LLC offers many types of windows, available in a variety of materials, shapes, and sizes. When it comes to window selection, we employ all of our expertise to match your new windows with your home’s architecture. Here are some styles of windows to consider:
- Casement windows
- Tilt-in windows
- Double & single hung windows
- Bay windows
- Radius windows
- Slider windows
- Awning windows
- Garden windows
What Are the Advantages of Casement Windows?
Casement windows, known for their hinged design that swings outward like a door, allow for excellent air circulation and a wider opening compared to sliding windows. They come in various sizes and can be combined in multiples to create large window displays.
Here are some of the advantages of these windows:
- Superior ventilation and airflow
- Unobstructed views and natural light
- Tight seals for improved energy efficiency
- Easy operation with a crank mechanism
- Enhanced security with interior locking mechanisms
- Versatile design options for various architectural styles
- Low maintenance and durable
How Do New Windows Improve Security?
Enhancing security is one of the benefits of replacing old or damaged windows. Newer, more modern windows have stronger frames and reinforced locking mechanisms, making them more resistant to force.
Worn-out frames can be weaker and more easily pried open, while brittle glass may shatter with minimal force. You can choose to install windows that come with impact-resistant glass options like laminated glass, which is much harder to break compared to single panes.
Here are some other ways that new windows can enhance security:
- Improved locking mechanisms
- Stronger window materials
- Integration with home security systems
- Enhanced visibility and natural surveillance
- Upgrading to more secure window styles (non-operable, casement windows)
Window Maintenance for New Installations
When you install new windows, performing regular maintenance tasks specific to the type of windows you have will allow prolong their functional and visual qualities.
Here are some window maintenance tasks to consider:
- Regular cleaning
- Use a soft cloth or brush to gently remove dirt, dust, and debris from the window frames and tracks.
- Clean the glass with a mild soap and water solution or a dedicated window cleaner for the best results.
- Lubrication
- Apply a small amount of lubricant (such as silicone-based or manufacturer-recommended) to the moving parts of operable windows, like hinges and tracks.
- Once a year should suffice for most windows, but for ones you open/close frequently, consider applying lubrication every six months.
- Weatherstripping Inspection
- Check the weatherstripping around the window frames periodically for signs of wear or damage.
- Replace any cracked, torn, or missing weatherstripping to maintain an airtight seal and prevent drafts.
Your choice for residential window replacement in Burien
Bring more sunshine into your Burien home with Local Glass Repairs LLC. We have provided Burien and neighboring communities with quality residential window services for many years. With some of the best prices and warranties in the industry and unmatched customer service, you can count on us for your upcoming window replacement project. For a free estimate, give us a call today! We look forward to discussing the many cost- and energy-saving benefits that come with Local Glass Repairs LLC windows!