A draft, broken glass, or difficulty opening a window usually means one thing: your windows need replacing. This can be a troublesome affair, depending on how many windows need replacing, where you need to put them, your skill level, and what kind of design/style you want for your home. While replacing them can be fast and efficient, making them look less dull and drab is challenging. By hiring professional help, you can get the best of both worlds with a clean installation and an aesthetically-pleasing design that will only enhance your home’s interior design. Here’s a quick rundown of how to go about replacing your windows in style.
Decide on your new window design style
Deciding on a new window design is fun but can be a slightly challenging endeavor due to the large variety available. Each window style offers various benefits and unique attributes for your home, such as increased airflow, excellent aesthetics, or improved energy efficiency. Here are few of the most commonly used window types:
- Single windows are the standard window on most homes, consisting of two vertical panels. The lower panel slides up to allow air through. You probably have several of these in your home.
- Bay windows are usually a combination of three or more windows curving out from the exterior of your wall. They offer maximum light, additional space in your home, and a larger view.
- Bow windows are similar to bay windows but are curved and use more glass. They typically consist of four-to-six windows instead of the bay window’s usually three.
- Double-hung windows are among the most common window types, with two vertical panels that move up and down.
- Case/Casement windows are more oversized windows that open like doors.
- Awning windows are vertically-mounted with a hinge at the top. They fold up on a hinge to allow airflow without letting rain or other debris into the house.
- Palladian windows are fancy, large, and vertical. They usually have small side panels and an arched top and are based on Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio’s work.
- Sliding windows are similar to single windows. They’re horizontally-oriented. Instead of lifting to allow airflow, they slide from one side to the other. They are also quite common in modern architecture.
- Fixed windows are primarily decorative and intended to allow light into the room. They come in various shapes, sizes, and styles. Fixed windows do not open.
One of the most exciting parts of replacing your windows is selecting a gorgeous new design to suit your home’s personality and interior aesthetic. Go for windows that fit your home’s architecture and style.
Understand window finishings
Once you’ve decided on a design, it’s time to determine if you want to add trim, curtains, screens, or other accouterments to your new windows. Adding decorative trim, a window sill, or a functional screen completes the overall presentation while adding additional capability to your windows. Screens are especially useful, as they offer extra layers of protection from the elements, insects, or potential intruders. Reinforcing the trim provides additional weather protection and improves the window’s energy efficiency. It’s best to approach finishing with an eye toward function and looks to get the best out of the installation.
Hire a professional for a better install and finish
Once you know which type of windows you want to install, it’s time to hire a professional. Consider hiring one of the best-rated window companies in Chicago to do your installation and window finishing. With a professional installer, you can rely on their expertise and craftsmanship to complete your installation with ease. They’ll usually bring their tools and materials, so you won’t have to incur the additional cost of supplying them. Since they’ve likely been working in the field for a long time, they’ll complete the job quickly without any lingering issues. Best of all, a professional window company will do the clean-up themselves, sparing you the chore’s time and effort.
Replace multiple windows at one time
Replacing windows can occasionally become a costly project. The cost rises with the number of windows you replace. If you can afford to do them all at once, some experts recommend you should. Don’t think of them as expensive; consider them an investment. Doing them all at once improves energy efficiency while decreasing your energy bill. It also makes the interior look better. Who wants several mismatched windows while awaiting replacements? Ultimately, taking care of them at one time will save money in the long run while improving your home.
Order supplies ahead of the job
Having everything you need for a job ahead of time is never a bad move. Remember that not all vendors will supply the new windows themselves, and you may be responsible for providing them. If that’s the case, you’ll need to ensure you order your windows ahead of the scheduled work. If you plan to go the DIY route, having everything on hand becomes even more vital to your window replacement strategy. Rather than scrambling at the last minute for the right supplies, a little bit of planning will help you have a positive window replacement experience and create the home you’ve always desired.
