3 Things to Know Before You Buy Replacement Windows

Technological advancements have made window replacement one of the most appealing home improvement projects because it promises a huge array of rewards. These include enhanced beauty both inside and outside the home, improved energy efficiency that can potentially lower energy bills, and less time spent on window maintenance. However, simply replacing your outdated windows won’t necessarily provide you with the return on your investment that you’re hoping for. If you’re planning to replace your home’s windows, here are three things to keep in mind before you buy:

Vinyl Frames Are Great, But Not All Vinyl Windows Are Equal

Vinyl-frame windows are often touted as the ideal choice for homeowners who want exceptional energy efficiency and low-maintenance benefits. However, it’s not enough to simply replace your aluminum- or wood-frame windows with vinyl alternatives. Look for windows with frames constructed from premium virgin vinyl—not recycled plastic pieces—if you want to get the best value for your investment. Thick, high-grade vinyl will be more weather resistant and provide better insulation against outside temperatures.

Energy Efficiency Varies by Climate

A window that meets ENERGY STAR^® certification standards for the southern United States, where excessively warm temperatures and home cooling costs are the top concern, won’t necessarily pass muster in regions where brutally cold temperatures dominate for much of the year. It’s important to ask whether the replacement windows you’re considering are designed to be energy efficient in your neck of the woods before you buy them.

Window Installation Expertise Is Critical

No matter how great the replacement windows you select, they will perform as promised only if they’re properly installed. Unfortunately, many home improvement stores will sell you replacement windows and then entrust their installation to subcontractors who may or may not follow the manufacturer’s installation specifications. This can lead to a host of problems that can undermine the return you receive on your investment, so you’ll want to ask about the qualifications of your installers before you buy any company’s replacement windows.

At ABC Seamless of Cheyenne, we take pride in providing the ideal replacement windows and expert installation services for homeowners throughout southern Wyoming and northern Colorado. Contact us today if you’re planning a window replacement project in our service area and you’d like to learn more.