All You Need to Know About Home Window Installation

A wooden window

Whether you're replacing your home's windows or getting new residential windows installed, you likely have a lot of questions about the process from your residential window repair and installation company.

Here's all you need to know about home window installation.

Step 1: Research

Like any home improvement venture, start by getting accustomed to the project's basics. In the case of home window installation, familiarize yourself with different types of frames like vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass, and glasses like double pane, insulated, tinted, etc., and various installation methods.

After that, evaluate how each type of frame and glass impacts your home's energy efficiency and then decide on the product you're going to use.

Installation

The window replacement and installation process requires you to choose between stud-to-stud, brick-to-brick, or retrofit installation.

The stud-to-stud or brick-to-brick process requires you to remove the entire frame of the window. While this process is more expensive, it ensures a firm seal.

A retrofit installation requires you to replace just the windowpane and not the frame. This means that the original window fixture will remain installed. Regardless of the installation process you opt for, hire a professional residential window glass repair service.

An apartment with big sliding windows and beautiful view

Energy Efficiency

Windows adds to your house's aesthetic value, but they're equally important in managing your home's energy efficiency. Therefore, if you're thinking about getting new windows installed, it's recommended that you use products certified by Energy Star. These window products come with an ER-rating that shows the overall efficiency of the windows along with their U-value. U-value indicates the amount of heat they will escape through the window.

Energy Star windows are usually sorted based on categories. Therefore, be sure to check these ratings before hiring a window installation company.

Style

It's very important to decide on a window style that complements your home's interior and exterior's overall aesthetic. Double and single-hung windows, casement windows, bay windows, and awning are some of the commonly installed window styles.

If energy efficiency is your top priority, we recommend that you get casement windows as they're energy-efficient. However, a downside of these windows is that they are expensive, so choose what fits your budget.

Window installer

Frame & Glass

The last step in your research is to choose an appropriate glass and window frame. Both these features can impact the rating of your window's efficiency. However, windows made from any of the materials mentioned below can be certified by Energy Star.

Aluminum frames: They're sturdy and easy to maintain, but they aren't energy-efficient and often unsuitable for cold climates.

Wood frames: They're energy-efficient and durable, but they require regular maintenance.

Vinyl and combination frames: They're both easier to maintain and energy-efficient compared to wooden frames.

Fiberglass frames:They're the sturdiest of them all and offer the best energy efficiency. They're easy to maintain but are the most expensive among all options.

After frames, determine the type of glass you want for the windows. Gas-filled, glazed, and glass with insulating films are some of the common options. We recommend consulting with a home window replacement service.

Step 2: Hire a Professional Window Installation Service

Once you've done the research and decided on the type of glass, frame, and installation process you want to go for, it's time to find an installation service. Ask your friends and family for referrals.

After deciding on a company, browse its website, read its reviews, and look at their portfolio. When you've shortlisted a few service providers, enquire if they have a valid license and insurance to do the job because you don't want to be liable for any loss. Lastly, ask them for a quote and choose the company that best fits your budget. 

Residential glass installers

Step 3: Prepare for the Installation Day

To prepare for the window installation day, you must take safety measures to ensure your home's protection. To do that, move the furniture that's in the way of the windows, including curtains and blinds. In addition, move the outdoor furniture and cover other valuable items that can't be moved like heavy pots and floors.

Different Methods of Window Installation

Window installation methods are of two kinds—full-frame installation and pocket installation.

Pocket installation: In this process, the existing window's sash is taken off and then replaced with a new window within the existing frame. This installation process is cheaper and quicker but limits you when it comes to window style.

Full-frame installation: In this process, the installers will remove the whole window frame and trim and replace it with a new window, trim, frame, and insulation. As this method requires a lot of work both inside and outside the house, it costs more than pocket installation.

Old windows

FAQs Regarding Window Installation

How long does it take to install windows?

The time it takes to install the windows varies on the type of installation, the number of installs the client wants, and the windows' size. The estimated time of installation is communicated to the client before they purchase the service.

Will the installation cause any disruption?

Disruption and noise depend on the size of the project. People aren't required to vacate the house during the window installation process.

While the pocket installation will cause minimal disruption, the full-frame installation will cause more disruption as the window installers will work both inside and outside the house. The latter installation process may also make more mess, but the installers will clean up after they're done working. 

Window installer tightening the screws of the window

How to prepare my house for window installation?

Trim the shrubs and other plants that may get in the way of the installation process. It's best to clear the interior work area of fragile items and cover furniture with plastic. If you have children or pets in the house, it's best to keep them away from the worksite.

Is it worth installing new windows?

To determine if window installation is worth it, answer the questions below:

·         Is window cleaning a hassle?

·         Do you want to increase your home's value?

·         Are you worried about high utility bills?

·         Is the glass cold or hot to the touch?

·         Are your windows broken or hard to operate?

What are the advantages of window replacement/installation?

Here's how you'll benefit after installing new windows:

·         Effortless cleaning

·         Decreased energy bills

·         Minimal Maintenance

·         Increased resale value

·         Improved curb appeal

·         Ease of use

Will the installers take the old windows away?

Yes, the installers will take your old windows away unless you want to keep them.

About Quality Window and Glass Repair LLC

Quality Window and Glass Repair LLC is a full-service residential window glass repair company in Germantown, MD. They offer same-day and low-cost window repair services for all types of residential glass needs—from glass doors and windows to tabletops and bathrooms. Their team has experience in frameless glass door repair, sliding glass door repair, insulated double pane glass, and foggy window repair. Get in touch with them for an affordable estimate.

 

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