The United States Department of Energy claims that a home’s windows are responsible for 25 to 30 percent of that home’s heating and cooling energy use. The quality of these windows can greatly affect yearly energy costs.
Some signs that it’s time to replace your windows include high energy bills, rotting window sills, and windows that are difficult to open or close.
If you are experiencing these issues, learn more about window replacement and window installation below.
Types Of Window Frames
Before making an appointment for window installation, take a moment to research the different types of window frames and their energy efficiency. These different types include:
- Composite
- Fiberglass
- Aluminum/metal
- Wood
- Vinyl
Of these options, aluminum and metal frames are the least energy efficient because they are energy conductors. This is unfortunate, as they are among the cheapest and most durable options.
Wood window frames look lovely and are decent natural insulators, but they require the most maintenance of all these options. Wood can also be quite expensive.
Composite window frames are cheaper than real wood, but they require less maintenance and usually have greater structural integrity. They often insulate better as well.
Among all these options, fiberglass and vinyl may be the most energy-efficient. The best type is a frame with a hollow cavity that can be stuffed with insulation.
Types Of Window Glass
Window glass or glazing is even more important than the window frame. The three main types of glass and glazing options are insulated, low-emissivity coatings, and spectrally-sensitive coatings.
Insulated windows are commonplace now. Most windows are double-paned, at least.
In addition to purchasing insulated windows, you can choose to coat the glass. You may choose between a low-emissivity coating or a spectrally-sensitive coating. You can even opt for gas fillings between window panes to further improve the energy efficiency of the window.
Window Installation
Once you choose the type of window you want, it’s time to hire a professional for window installation. If the new window is the same size the cost of the window itself should be more than the cost of the labor.
Window installation costs must cover the rate of the window replacement professionals. Typically, they earn about $40 per hour. It shouldn’t take much more than one hour to replace one window.
Of course, if the homeowner wants to increase their window size, the time and difficulty of window installation go up. This means the price goes up too.
Also, window installers often charge more to replace skylights and windows on high floors as these are more difficult and risky to replace.
Getting Windows Replaced
Window installation is the easy part. The hard part is deciding on the right window frame and window glass to match your budget and aesthetic. Make sure to keep energy efficiency in mind as you research and shop.
If you are looking for high-quality window replacement in Chehalis, Washington, contact us today.