What is the Difference Between New Construction and Retrofit Installation?

When you decide you are ready to get replacement windows near San Francisco, CA, you’ll find that there are many decisions to be made. You’ll need to choose what kind of frame material you want, which style of windows you want, and more. You might not realize that the actual installation process can vary as well, and according to your needs, you might need either a retrofit installation or a new construction installation. Each of these comes with its own benefits and costs, and you’ll have to speak to your installer about which one is a better option for you.

Retrofit Installation

Retrofit installation is going to be the less involved process of the two, because it uses structures that are already in place. With retrofit windows, you are actually keeping the window frame, while replacing the glass inside it. If the frames are in good shape, then it may not be necessary to replace the entire thing. Your contractor or window installation expert can help you figure out if retrofit windows will work in your home. This can be a way to save money for the homeowner, and can be done without any damage to the existing frame. It’s also a good option if you don’t want to change the appearance of your windows too much, or if you want to keep the original materials that were used, which is sometimes common in older homes.

New Construction

New construction installation is definitely a more involved process, which requires skill and experience in window installation. It involves the removal of the old frame, and the installation of an entire new window. This can sometimes require removal of some of the construction materials of the house, and it will generally appear somewhat different than the original windows. If you want to change the size or shape of your windows, or you want to upgrade to new window frame material, new construction is likely your best bet. Additionally, if your window frames have begun to rot or have warped beyond repair, you will need to get new construction windows installed in your home. The disadvantage to new construction is that it is more labor-intensive, and will likely be pricier than retrofit windows. However, sometimes it is necessary to have an entirely new window installed. Additionally, if you are replacing all the windows in your home, you may want them all to have a consistent appearance, which is easier to do with new construction.

When you’re ready to start looking into replacement windows near San Francisco, CA, you may need to make a decision between retrofit and new construction installation. While retrofit is less intrusive and labor-intensive than new construction, it is not always a viable option. Additionally, if you want to change the look of your windows completely, you will have to go with new construction windows. Depending on your budget, the existing window frame quality, and the opinion of your installer, you should be able to come up with a plan to move forward.

Do You Really Need to Replace All Your Windows at Once?

Getting replacement windows near Richmond, CA, is a big investment into your home. Depending on what materials and styles you purchase, it can become a significant expense. It’s not always necessary to replace all your windows at the same time, but in some cases, it may be advised. You’ll need to look at the condition of your windows, as well as your own budget, to help you decide the best way to go about it.

The first thing you’ll need to consider is what kind of shape your windows are in, and why you have decided to replace them. If you have found that there is significant moisture buildup in your home, or you feel major drafts around your windows, it’s better to get them replaced as soon as possible. This way, you can avoid high heating bills and possible damage to your home and health from mold and mildew. In this case, if many of the windows are not functioning properly, you may want to consider a faster timeline for installation. However, if there are only a few that are causing problems, you can focus on getting those replaced first. This will be unique to each home, and you can ask your contractor for advice on what windows need more urgent replacement.

Some people choose to get replacement windows purely for aesthetic reasons. Perhaps they are doing major overall upgrades to their home, or maybe they purchased the house to flip and sell. In either case, you would likely want to get all the windows replaced around the same time, to keep a more consistent look throughout your home.

The next thing you’ll want to consider is your budget. Windows are not cheap, and although there are different materials that come at a lower cost, it can still add up to be a significant expense. This is a major reason why people sometimes choose to have their windows replaced over a longer time period, rather than doing it all at once. It allows you to budget your money out, and not have to spend a large amount of money all at one time.

Something else to take into consideration is the disruption to your daily life that window replacement can cause. Having construction crews coming in and out of your home can be very disruptive, and you may wish to minimize this as much as possible. If that’s the case, you could have your windows done slowly, room by room, to lessen these interruptions. On the other hand, you might want to get it all taken care of at the same time, so that it is completed as quickly as possible and you and your family can get back to normal.

As you can see, there is no set schedule or timeline for getting replacement windows. You can take all these things into consideration when deciding how to schedule the installation of your replacement windows near Richmond, CA. That way, you and your installer can come up with a plan that works for your budget and lifestyle.

How Have Window Glass and Materials Improved Over the Years?

Windows have long been an essential part of any home or building. They provide natural light to the interior of a home, and they also provide a way to allow fresh air into the home. There have been many upgrades in technology when it comes to the materials used for replacement windows near Berkeley, CA. Many of these changes make the windows safer, more efficient, and longer-lasting.

Window Glass

Windows today must be made with tempered glass, which is stronger than regular glass. It is also safer to have in your home because if a tempered glass window breaks, it will break into small, easy-to-handle pieces. Before tempered glass, a broken window would result in large, dangerous shards of glass. Today’s windows are also typically given a Low-E coating, which stands for low-emissive. These coatings help to block some infrared and UV rays from entering your home, while still allowing visible light through. They are a transparent coating, which can help lower the transfer of heat from inside your home during the winter, and they help to reflect heat outside during the summer, keeping the temperature cooler in your home.

Double and Triple-Pane Windows

For a long time, windows were made with a single pane of glass. Now, they are typically always made with at least double panes. The pocket of air between the two panes acts as an insulation barrier, helping to maintain the temperature inside your home. It is often filled with argon or krypton gas, both of which are harmless gases that provide even more insulation. Triple-paned windows are more common in areas with very extreme climates, particularly places that reach very low temperatures during the winter. These provide excellent insulation, keeping the heat inside your home better than any other type of window.

Frame Materials

Wood has been the most commonly used material for window frames for centuries. It is still frequently used, but many people are opting for clad-wood windows, which offer better protection against the outside elements, while still having the beautiful wood appearance inside. However, there are several other options now for window materials, such as fiberglass and vinyl. These materials are becoming more and more popular, due to their lower cost and their durable qualities. Fiberglass and vinyl windows can be expected to last for a long time without warping or becoming compromised, and they both provide excellent insulation for your home. They come in a variety of colors, and fiberglass can even be painted and manufactured to resemble wood material. Having this variety of options allows you to make a better choice when it comes to window materials.

These are just a few of the ways that window frame and glass materials and technology have improved in recent decades. The general trend is to improve energy efficiency, as well as increase longevity. When you need replacement windows near Berkeley, CA, be sure to ask your installer about what kind of materials they offer, and which might be best for your budget and home. That way, you can be sure that your home will be as efficient as possible, saving you money in the long run.

Planning a Budget for Replacement Windows

When you get new windows installed in your home, it can be a big investment. There are many things you’ll need to take into consideration when planning your budget and what kind of windows you want. Ask your provider of replacement windows near San Francisco, CA, to help you come up with a plan that works for your tastes and budget.

The first thing you’ll need to consider is the type of materials you want for your windows. There are several different options here across a range of prices. The most inexpensive option is vinyl windows. These are sturdy windows that are energy-efficient, and they come in a variety of colors. Next would be fiberglass windows. These are usually a step above vinyl windows in price, but also in function. They are lightweight and sturdy, and they’re known for being resistant to the elements and changing temperatures. They’re good insulators for maintaining the temperature in your home, and their structure allows for them to have a smaller profile. Finally, you have wood or wood-clad windows. These are often more expensive, and many people choose them for aesthetic reasons. They can be very attractive, but also require a bit more maintenance to keep them lasting for a long time. Similar to fiberglass windows, wood window frames can be painted any color you like, allowing you to match them perfectly with the rest of your home.

The next thing you’ll want to consider is the type of window glass you want. This may vary throughout the different windows in your home. Most windows today are double-pane glass, which has two layers of glass with a layer of gas in between them. They are effective at insulating your home from the temperatures outside. If you live in a colder climate, you may want to spring for triple-paned glass. These are typically heaver and more expensive, but they provide the ultimate protection from the cold winter air, and they’re the most sound-proof as well.

One thing you’ll want to discuss with your installer is a sort of schedule. Some people may want to budget out their installations over a longer period of time, so that they do not have to spend such a big chunk of money at once. Others want to get it all done at once, so they’re not having to deal with construction crews coming in and out of their home multiple times. Most window installation companies are very accommodating to your needs, and they will work with you to come up with a plan.

Make sure that you take advantage of the free in-home consultations that most installers of replacement windows near San Francisco, CA, provide. This way, you can speak with the different companies and get quotes on their pricing, as well as getting a feel for the type of service they will provide. Then, you can look at all your options and choose the company you feel the most comfortable with. Soon, you’ll be on your way to having beautiful new windows installed in your home.

Easy-to-Miss Signs that You Need Replacement Windows

Getting replacement windows near Richmond, CA, is not likely to be something you’ll need to do more than once in your life. It’s a significant investment in improving your home, but it’s worth it in the long run if your windows are old and not functioning properly. There are a few things you can look out for that tell you it might be time to consider replacing your windows sometime soon.

First of all, a big indicator of improperly functioning windows is the presence of moisture in or around the window frames or panes. For instance, in a double-paned window, you may see droplets of moisture buildup between the two glass panes. This means that their seal has likely cracked or otherwise become compromised. If you haven’t noticed any moisture inside, then it’s still early, and you have time to plan. However, if you begin to see frost build up inside your windows in the winter or notice a mildew film around your window panes, you’ll need to act a little more quickly. Mildew and mold buildup is common where there is persistent moisture. These growths can cause health problems for you and your family, and if left to grow unchecked, can even damage or ruin your personal belongings. It’s essential to thoroughly clean and remove the mold, but you must also address the root of the problem.

Another sign that your windows are no longer performing properly is if you feel a cold draft in the winter. This means that you are leaking heat near your windows all the time, and in the summer, your air conditioning will also be less efficient. This can cause your heating and cooling bills to be higher than they should be. With replacement windows, you can increase the energy efficiency of your home, saving you money in the long run as well as improving your impact on the environment in general.

If you start to notice your windows becoming difficult to open or close, or if they slide shut much too easily, this is a signal that they have likely warped over time. This is a normal occurrence, and happens after years of exposure to the elements, changing temperatures, and moisture outside. Wood frames are especially vulnerable if they aren’t properly cared for, and even if they are, it can still happen. The result of this is inconvenience for you when it comes to using your windows, and it can also lower the energy efficiency of your home. When you begin to notice these problems, you may want to come up with a plan to begin replacing your windows.

All these signs are indicators that your windows may be getting old or past their prime. Finding a company to provide replacement windows near Richmond, CA, shouldn’t be hard to do, and you can come up with a plan that fits your budget and lifestyle. Many people want to take it one room at a time, so that they can plan out their spending over a longer period. Others want to just get it all done at once, so they don’t have to worry about construction crews coming in and out of their home. Either way, you can work with your installer to come up with the right path forward.

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Replacement Window Installer

When you’re getting window replacements near Berkeley, CA, it’s important to do due diligence when you’re choosing an installation company. Just like with any other home improvements or services for hire, you want to be sure that you’re going with a company that has a stellar reputation for quality craftsmanship and professionalism. There are some questions you can ask and details you can find out so that you can have confidence in the choice you make.

The first thing you’ll want to do in your research is to find out what kind of experience the employees at that company have. Look for places with many years of combined experience in window and door installation, and a carpentry and construction background can be helpful too. You want to be sure that the people you’re hiring know what they’re doing before they start working on your windows. Also, ask if the company is insured, bonded, and licensed. Any reputable window installation company will have these qualifications, and they are an additional way for you to have confidence in their abilities.

Next, you’ll want to find out whether they use their own in-house installers, or if they use subcontracted workers. The difference here is mainly in the consistency of work and the amount of training. Most places who use their own employees will have a higher and more consistent standard of quality that they expect from their workers. Subcontractors may not be as dependable for high-quality work, or they may lack inconsistency in certain areas. Find out whether the in-house craftsmen are factory-certified, as well. Having factory-authorized installations often results in a longer warranty, and better overall craftsmanship.

You may want to ask the company for examples of their past work, as well as some testimonials from customers. You can often find these on their website, and they give a better idea of the type of service and quality you can expect. You may also want to type their name into a search engine to see what other reviews may be found online. This will help you get a broader perspective on the type of work they are capable of.

One thing to try and avoid in a window installation company is pushy salesman. Everyone has a budget and particular tastes for their home improvements. Having a pushy salesman try to talk you into purchasing something more expensive or something that you don’t particularly want, is not helpful or beneficial to you. Make sure that when you are talking to them, they listen to your needs and ask the right questions. You will feel more comfortable during the experience, and they will be able to serve you better. Steer clear of any companies that make you feel pressured into a purchase that you aren’t sure about.

These are some basic guidelines to follow and questions to ask when shopping around for a company to install your replacement windows near Berkeley, CA. Make sure to keep these in mind, so that when you make your decision, you can do it with confidence. That way, you will be likely to be satisfied with the work being done to your home.

Taking a Closer Look at Fiberglass Windows

Fiberglass window frames are a relatively new type of window on the market. Depending on your budget and your needs, fiberglass windows might be the right choice for your replacement windows near San Francisco, CA. They are sturdy and durable, and they last for a long time without warping or changing shape. They also provide excellent insulation, and are a good choice for a more energy-efficient home.

Fiberglass is made using polyester resins and glass strands, which are molded and cured using heat. This is a very basic explanation, but this process creates a material which can be molded into any shape and texture, and the resulting object is very resistant to damage or change. That’s what makes fiberglass such a useful substance when it comes to window frames. Windows are consistently subjected to environmental stress, changing temperatures, and prolonged moisture. They need to be resistant to these things in order to keep them out of our homes. Fiberglass can last for many years without losing functionality, and they are good at helping to maintain the temperature in your home.

In addition to their tough nature, fiberglass windows are versatile in their appearance, as well. They can even be molded to have a convincing wood texture, which many people find attractive for their homes. Unlike vinyl, fiberglass can easily be painted any color you choose, meaning it is endlessly customizable to match the rest of your home. Fiberglass windows can also be made with a smaller frame size in general, increasing the glass coverage and light that can be let in. Many people find this smaller profile to be a desirable look for their windows.

As mentioned earlier, fiberglass is a great material for insulating your home from the outside elements. Around the world, people are beginning to prioritize their energy efficiency more and more. Not only does it lower your heating and cooling costs, but it also is better for the planet in general. Saving money by having efficient windows is a great way to lower your environmental impact while improving your monthly budget.

One thing you’ll have to take into consideration with fiberglass windows is that they are generally going to be pricier than a material like vinyl. Most of the time, fiberglass prices sit somewhere between vinyl and wood/clad wood when it comes to price. If you have the budget to spend a little bit more money on your replacement windows, you’ll want to consider fiberglass for your frame material.

It’s important to do your research and know what you’re paying for when you’re doing home improvements. Your installer of replacement windows near San Francisco, CA, can show you what kind of windows they have available, and they can talk to you more about which materials will be right for your home and your budget. Be sure to take a look at their past work to get a better idea of how certain windows may fit into your home. That way, you can feel confident in your choices, and you’re likely to be satisfied with the end result.

Why Replacement Windows are a Good Investment

Whether you’re looking to sell your home, doing home renovations, or trying to increase the energy efficiency of your household, replacement windows near Richmond, CA can be a worthy investment. Some people choose to do all their windows at one time, while others take a more leisurely (and affordable) approach of going room by room. Either way, it can affect the value of your home, as well as improve your home’s energy efficiency.

In terms of energy efficiency, new windows can make a big difference in your home’s heating and cooling bills. Older windows likely won’t have as good of a seal from the outside, allowing outside air and moisture to enter your home. In the wintertime, this can feel like cold drafts around your windows. In the summer, it can become apparent by rising energy costs due to inefficient cooling. Having new windows installed can make a difference on your heating and cooling costs, as well as allowing you make your house “greener” and lower your environmental footprint. In this day and age, it’s apparent how important it is to be aware of our impact on the world around us.

Because of these benefits associated with new windows, the value of your home can actually go up after replacing your old windows. In every home, eventually, the windows will need replacing. If you’re trying to sell your house, this is one thing you can advertise to potential buyers. They will appreciate having one less thing to worry about paying to fix in the coming years. As a result, you can ask for a higher price on your home, and get a better value in the long run.

Brand new windows are also very effective at keeping moisture from entering your home. Prolonged moisture in your home can lead to mold and mildew growth over time. These are different types of fungi that thrive in persistently damp conditions. They can cause allergic reactions in members of your household, and some types can even emit dangerous toxins that cause extensive health problems. If mold is allowed to grow on your belongings or within the structure of your home, it can become difficult if not impossible to remove without professional help. It can also stain or ruin the items that it grows on. While you can clean smaller areas of mold growth yourself, taking measures to prevent this from happening again is necessary as a homeowner. Replacement windows are one way to keep moisture from accumulating in your home.

If you’re thinking about getting replacement windows near Richmond, CA, give your local installation company a call to get a free in-home consultation. They can go through and help you come up with a plan that fits into your budget and lifestyle. Their trusted manufacturers have extensive catalogs for you to browse, allowing you to choose fittings that match the look of the rest of your home. Call them today to get started on raising the value of your home, while lowering your heating and cooling costs!

Why You Need to Keep Moisture Out of Your Home

Having a home requires a certain amount of maintenance and care. It’s important to pay attention to certain things because they can end up causing significant problems for your family and your belongings. One example of this is moisture and mold buildup in your home. There are multiple sources in your home that can cause this, and one of them is your windows. In this case, getting replacement windows near Berkeley, CA, may be necessary. If you notice moisture accumulating in between your window panes, frost on the inside of your window during the winter, or a layer of mildew or mold around your window frames, this is a definite indication that something needs to be done.

The biggest problem that can occur with moisture in your home is the growth of mold and mildew. These are both closely related types of fungus, which thrive in damp conditions. Mold spores can come into your home through doors and windows, but they won’t be an issue unless there are areas where moisture is continually present. While this can occur around ductwork and in other areas of your home, it can also happen when windows no longer have their original seal.

Over time, a window’s seal can fail due to fluctuation in temperature, and general aging. One of the first signs that this is happening is when you start to notice moisture buildup between the panes in your windows. In the winter, you may notice that frost is building up around your windows on the interior of your home. You might even start to notice a thin, white buildup on your window frame. These are all indications that your windows are allowing moisture to enter your home. If you allow mold and mildew to flourish in your home, it can cause allergic reactions in your family, resulting in sniffling, sneezing, itchy skin, and other hay fever-like symptoms. It can even emit serious toxins, which can cause further damage to your family’s health. Mold can also destroy the surfaces on which it grows over time, and even if you clean it off, you may never be able to return the items back to their original state.

When mold growth happens, it’s possible to clean it using a detergent or biocide like bleach. However, you must also address the source of the moisture. In this case, we are talking about windows that are insufficiently sealed against the outside. Often, window replacement is your only option. You’ll want to consider what kind of framing material you choose, with fiberglass and vinyl being excellent repellants to moisture. Wood is also a popular option, and it’s made more resistant to the elements by utilizing cladding on the outside.

If you’ve noticed any mold or mildew around your windows, it’s best to talk to a professional right away. Your provider of replacement windows near Berkeley, CA, can give you an in-home consultation for free, and they’ll guide you through the process. Give them a call right away, and get your home back to being a safe and comfortable environment.

Try to Avoid These Mistakes When Getting Replacement Windows

Upgrading your home with replacement windows near San Francisco, CA, is a big investment. The newly installed windows should last for decades to come, and they will raise the value of your home while lowering heating and cooling costs. It’s worth doing due diligence to make sure that you’re not making any of these common mistakes in the process of getting the work done.

Don’t Try to Do it Yourself

Even if you are a handy, do-it-yourself type person, installing windows is best left to the experts. It requires years of experience to properly fit a window into the side of a house, and any mistakes made can result in an undesirable finished product. You want your new windows to be perfectly installed, allowing no moisture or unwanted drafts to enter your home. Often times if someone tries to install their own windows, they end up calling the professionals anyway. This can add more costs if they have to do extra work to fix your mistakes. It’s best to just trust the experts here.

Don’t Hire the Cheapest Company You Can Find

There are plenty of opportunities to shop around for contractors and window installers, and it’s a good idea to do a little research before choosing one. If you just go with the cheapest one right away, you may not get the best quality work. Make sure you read through reviews and testimonials, and find out what their customer base seems to think of them. Take a look at any examples of past work that they have done to get an idea of what type of work you may receive. You may also want to ask family and friends who they have hired in the past, and if they had a good experience with them. There are plenty of options out there, so make sure you choose one that will provide excellent customer service and quality craftsmanship.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

When you’re hiring someone to do work on your home, you want to make sure that they are fully qualified to do the job. Find out if they are properly licensed and insured, as every reputable contractor should be. Ask whether they hire construction crews internally, or if they have in-house staff to do the work. Ask them about their combined experience. And if you have any questions about the product itself, how the process works, or anything else, make sure to ask! You are putting time and money into this investment, and you want to be as informed as possible.

These are just a few guidelines to help you have the best possible experience in shopping for replacement windows near San Francisco, CA. Make sure to hire a respected and reputable installation company. Don’t try to do the work yourself. And don’t be afraid to ask questions. Make sure that you do your research before committing to have the work done. Ask your local contractor about getting an in-home consultation, and get started on the journey to having new windows in your home.