Replacement Windows

You’re ready to make changes to your home.  What do you do?  What considerations are there?
 
First and foremost is budget.  Identify the amount of money that you have available to change your windows.  This will enable you to better identify the type of windows to look at be they wood or vinyl.

Next, are you planning on keeping your home or selling, and if so, how soon? What do you want your new windows to do for you?  Provide easier cleaning access or better air circulation or be more energy efficient?  Perhaps it's only to make a decorating statement or to give you a more scenic view?

If you are replacing older aluminum or single pane windows, factor in a cost savings of 30% to 40% on your heating and cooling bills.  In most cases, the savings that you realize from energy costs may pay for your windows within three years.

Once you decide on your window requirements, what next?
Do you want window frames of vinyl or wood?  Do you want single (one moveable pane) or double hung (both moveable panes)?  You can choose a casement window or bay or put a brow on the top.  Perhaps a decorative grill or tint for that decorative statement?  What is the warranty on the widows that you have chosen and is it transferable if you plan on  selling?

Any time that you are building new, you defray labor cost because it is new construction and there is no tear-out cost.  As long as your changes are made before the new home is framed, your window changes will have minimum effect on labor costs.  Talk to your General Contractor at the earliest possible time.  Make the changes as soon as you have firmed up your ideas so as not to impact the overall schedule of construction.