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'Window shop' for your home
This year, as people stay closer to home, try a home-improvement project that involves little effort, makes your house more beautiful and efficient, and can provide benefits for years to come -- replacing your windows.
Beauty, comfort and energy efficiency are excellent reasons to replace old windows. When windows are old, leaky and don't work properly, they can also be frustrating to operate.
Replacing old windows is easier than you think. The following considerations should help make your project as easy as opening a new window.
Choose windows that are energy efficient.
Traditionally, poorly performing windows and doors have been the weak energy link in homes, often accounting for up to 40 percent of a home's heat loss during the winter. Make sure you choose windows with energy-saving benefits. Two simple ways to check a window's energy efficiency and performance are to look for an Energy Star label and a label from the National Fenestration Rating Council, known as NFRC.
Choosing Energy Star- qualified windows can reduce your energy bills by 15 percent, according to Energy Star. Plus, homeowners who purchase and install qualifying Energy Star windows and doors in 2009 may be eligible to receive a one-time credit of up to $500 on their 2009 federal income tax.
The NFRC label shows a window's U-Factor, which tells how well the window keeps in heat. U-Factors generally range from .20 (most energy efficient) to 1.20 (least energy efficient). The lower the number, the better the window retains heat. In colder climates, a U-Factor of .30 or lower is recommended to get the most energy efficiency from your window.
Choose low-maintenance windows.
Today, homeowners can choose from several framing options, including wood, vinyl and composite frames. Because ongoing maintenance can be daunting, many homeowners are looking for windows that require little or no maintenance.
Window frames made from composite materials can be a good option for homeowners who like the look and strength of wood but also want the low-maintenance features of vinyl. Because of the unique blend of materials, composite windows do not need ongoing staining or painting to maintain their natural beauty, saving you time and money.
In addition, today's window technologies offer a new generation of low-maintenance glass that reduces dirt buildup and water spots on the exterior when activated by sunlight. This improves your view and makes cleaning easier.
Choose a company that provides installation and a warranty.
Quality installation is a critical component of any successful window replacement project. Even the highest quality windows will underperform if installed incorrectly. Make sure to hire a professional installation company, as it is a key part of the window-replacement process. Try to use one company throughout the entire window-replacement project. It is preferable for a company to have a warranty on both its products and installation.
Eliminating uncomfortable drafts and unsightly windows is a great way to start the year. Armed with the knowledge to make the right window-replacement decision for your home, you can easily make your home more beautiful, comfortable and energy efficient.
-- Courtesy of ARAcontent
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