Is It Time to Replace Your Windows?

January 24, 2020

Windows, simple pieces of glass, wood or metal that separate our homes from the outside. They are meant to keep us safe, warm and dry and, often time, we don’t think about them … until there is a problem. A small window issue can be a BIG problem! Drafty windows can cost your average home hundreds of dollars, from increased heating bills, over the course of winter.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that you’ll save between $126 to $465 a year by replacing single-pane windows in your home. Depending upon how many you have to replace, you may see savings after even one year or two!

New, updated windows can increase your home’s air flow, provide better insulation, provide beautiful, natural lighting and increase the curb appeal of your home.  

Four reasons you should consider replacing your windows.

  1. They are looking rough. If your windows are damaged, warped or broken, it is time to call the experts at Dick’s Roof Repair. Our team can inspect your home’s windows and provide you with a FREE estimate on either replacing or repairing your windows. If your windows fog up, are drafty or sticking when you open or close them, replacement might be your best option.
  2. If your energy bills are “through the roof,” replacing your windows could be a solution. Drafty windows can cause your energy bills to be about 10% to 25% higher, according to Energy.gov.
  3. Makeover time! If your home’s curb appeal needs some updating, new windows can be the perfect “face lift.”
  4. Two words: Wisconsin Winters! Wisconsin’s weather can wreak havoc on your windows, especially in the winter. The effects of constantly changing weather, from balmy 40 degrees to gale force winds and subzero temperatures, can slowly erode away your windows appearance AND effectiveness.

Our suggestion for replacing your windows:

When it comes to replacements, our experts recommend full-frame replacement windows – this takes the old window out all the way to the original framing. This allows our team to inspect the opening for rot, decay and/or damage. We will then remove the existing trim (saving it for re-installation later) and repair or replace the window’s damaged areas. Then, we install the new window and apply non-expanding foam fill between the window and the frame, to help seal the window and address any areas of potential drafts. The final steps include caulking the window and re-installing the trim. To keep your new windows looking beautiful from the outside, exterior LP trim or aluminum wraps can be included.

The other option is to remove the existing sashes from the old window frames and leave all the interior trim. New windows can be installed to fit inside the existing window frame. This allows for the old beautiful or perhaps historic trim to remain, although this option will reduce your glass size and increase the frame size.  For better insulation, this application includes non-expanding foam-fill between the window frame and new window. It also includes proper aluminum/LP trim wrap to exterior to keep your home looking sharp all year long.

Dick’s Roof Repair is proud to work with amazing window vendors, from Pella Doors & Windows, Simonton Vinyl Windows, Alliance Vinyl Windows, and Therma Tru Doors.

Don’t wait until spring to start thinking about your home’s windows. Contact the Dick’s Roofing team today for your FREE estimate and to get your home scheduled in 2020.