Don’t Let Your Money Fly Out the Window
What’s a home without windows? They flood your space with natural light and let you enjoy the beauties of the outside world. When open, they allow for circulation. When closed, windows trap your home’s heated or cooled air while keeping rain and animals out. However, when any part of your window is damaged, it’s no longer as energy efficient and can lead to moisture issues within the home. Unfortunately, many homeowners, put off by the cost of window replacement in Seminole, TX, choose to ignore window problems altogether. This ought not be so.
While professionals generally recommend replacing all the windows within the home to save on labor and materials costs, we understand that doing so is not economically feasible for all our clients. That’s why, when you work with Schmitt Roofing and Construction for window replacements in west Texas, we’ll never pressure you to purchase a service you neither need nor want. Instead, we aim to understand your preferences and budget and then present viable solutions for your home. Seminole, TX locals, give us a call at 432-955-5335 to learn more about our services, and keep reading to learn how to tell if you need a new window and about the different window options available to you.
How can I tell if it’s time to replace my windows?
It is obvious that a window with a cracked, shattered, or chipped glass should be replaced. However, this is not the only time window replacement is necessary. When you start noticing moisture inside your windows, your windows are beginning to fail. Condensation, mold, or pooling water on the window sill are all reasons for concern. Double pane windows are held together by a special seal, and with time, that seal hardens and cracks. Cracking is especially common in vinyl windows, where the window frame expands in the warmer months and contracts during the colder ones. These cracks give way to leaks and unsightly mold and mildew growth. Windows that are difficult to open and close may also be in need of attention.
If you feel cold air coming in through your windows, your window’s energy efficiency is lacking, and it’s time to consider replacing it. Cold drafts are common if a window is improperly sealed or if it is a single pane window. Similarly, if your windows are not providing much of a sound barrier between your home’s interior and the outside world, replacing your windows can help reduce sound transmission. Choosing a thicker glass and ensuring that windows are properly insulated can help minimize outside noise in your home.
What kinds of windows are there?
When considering a window replacement in Seminole, TX, it’s important to think about where and how the window will be used.
Casement windows feature a side hinge and open outward. Sometimes called “crank windows” due to the crank with which you open them, casement windows provide uninterrupted natural light and maximum ventilation. These windows are an excellent feature in kitchens (burning bacon, anyone?) and in bathrooms to let shower and bath moisture escape.
A sash is the part of a window that slides and keeps glass panes together. Window sashes fit within window frames. Single-hung windows have a fixed sash at the top and an adjustable sash at the bottom.
Double-hung windows have two sashes in a single frame. The top or bottom sash alone can be opened, or both can be opened at the same time. When a user opens both sashes at the same time, cool, fresh air flows in through the bottom sash while warm air escapes through the top sash.
Picture windows don’t open. Instead, they provide unobstructed views and can be gorgeous features if ventilation is not a concern. These windows can also be installed in hard-to-reach places to provide a little natural light.
Those seeking an energy-efficient window should consider the Low-E window. Low-emissivity (low-E) windows have a microscopically thin, clear coating. The coating reflects heat and reduces the amount of infrared and ultraviolet radiation coming in while still preserving the amount of incoming light. The film on low-E windows also reflects interior temperatures back within the home and allows homeowners to enjoy energy savings.
Choosing the Right Frame for My Window
When you replace your windows, you can choose from a range of materials for your window’s frame. Fiberglass window frames are hardy and can hold large, heavy pieces of glass. They are low-maintenance and can be painted (though they don’t require paint). Because fiberglass doesn’t expand and contract as much as other materials, this type of window frame works well in most climates.
Aluminum frames are another strong yet lightweight option. This window frame has a sleek appearance and really emphasizes the glass and the views it offers. Aluminum frames are often used in multi-panel glass walls that facilitate indoor/outdoor living. However, aluminum frames are susceptible to corrosion and may not be the best in coastal cities.
Vinyl frames are crafted from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), but not all vinyl frames are created equally. When choosing this type of frame, it’s important to choose one from a reputable manufacturer. Vinyl window frames are not susceptible to rust and are relatively easy to maintain. They don’t require staining, paint, or refinishing, and can be recycled when no longer needed. They’re also the most affordable window frame.
Choose Schmitt Roofing and Construction for your Window Replacement in Seminole, TX
There are many different styles and options when it comes to replacing your window. Choosing which is right for your home and budget can be tricky, so let us help. The experts at Schmitt Roofing and Construction are well-acquainted with some of the best windows in the industry and can help you make a decision that you can appreciate now and for years to come. Give us a call at 432-955-5335 to learn more about our window installations in Seminole, TX, or to discuss our financing options. We look forward to working with you.
