Your old windows may seem okay to you, but by current standards, they may be costing you big time. Replacing your windows can help save money in the long run. Both your energy bills and the money you spend on window repair will reflect those new windows. Here is how your windows may be costing you money.

Over Time, Gaps Open Around the Frame

Window frames and panes are sealed in the wall with caulking. When that caulking gets older, it can crack and even chip in some places. Those leave little gaps that let drafts through. Your heating system will have to work harder to keep the place warm if cold air keeps seeping in, and the same goes for your air conditioner in summer as the cold air leaks out. All that working harder leads to higher bills and a stressed heater and air conditioner. Replacing the windows with new sealant eliminates those drafts. Yes, it’s always possible to keep caulking around the windows and adding that plastic film in winter, but why deal with that when new dual-pane windows would cut off the drafts for you?

Single-Pane Window Types Offer Less Insulation

Single-pane windows do not provide a good level of insulation against cold or heat. There is a lot of thermal transfer between the interior of your home and the outdoors, and when the temperature difference between the two is big, then the effects on how comfortable your home feels to you will be even bigger. This also affects your heating and cooling in a way similar to how those caulking gaps do, except you can’t really fix the transfer through a single-pane window. Installing dual-pane window types gives you better insulation that cuts down on thermal transfer. When you replace all your windows with new dual-pane versions, you could save money and increase the lifespan of your windows. According to Energy Star, replacing single-pane windows with double-pane windows can save you between 21% and 31% on heating and cooling costs.

Older Windows Malfunction More

As time goes on and the windows get older, the tracks can attract dirt that blocks the panes from moving smoothly. The locks can malfunction, the glass can even be broken, and so on. Older windows have just had more time for things to go wrong. Those new windows may seem costly up-front, but they’ll save you from all repair costs.

If you’re interested in replacing your old windows with new ones, call us at Discount Window and Door to learn about our selection of window types. With our free quotes, you’ll know exactly how much you can expect to pay for your replacement windows.

When it comes to home windows, homeowners often wonder if they should repair or replace them. It’s not always an easy decision. A cracked pane of glass or a malfunctioning window may be fixed with repairs, while older and lower-quality windows may require replacement. When deciding whether to repair or replace them, you have a few things to consider.

1. Cost

Cost is an important factor when determining whether to repair or replace your windows. In general, repairs are usually cheaper than replacements, but this is not always the case as each situation is unique. For example, if a window frame needs to be replaced due to mold or rot, then replacing the entire window might be the better solution. It might also save you money on repairs in the long run.

2. Quality and Efficiency

The quality of your windows also plays a role in deciding whether to repair or replace them. If you have older and lower-quality windows, it might be better to replace them with new, energy-efficient windows. Replacing standard windows with energy-efficient windows and doors that meet the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Star program lowers energy bills by 7 to 15%, according to www.energystar.gov. This means you can save money on your energy bills over time by replacement instead of repairs.

3. Timeframe

Repairs can be quicker since only small parts need to be fixed or replaced. Replacements, on the other hand, require more time due to measurements and installation. If you need a quick solution, you might lean towards repairs. With proper planning and available time, window replacement can provide greater savings in the future.

4. Professional Assistance

No matter which option you choose, always seek professional assistance. Repairs and replacements require special tools and expertise to ensure the job is done correctly. Hiring a professional repair or replacement service can help you decide whether repairs or replacements are necessary and how to get them done safely.

Cost, quality and efficiency, timeframe, and professional assistance are all important factors when deciding whether to repair or replace your windows. Ultimately, repairs may seem cheaper, but a replacement can yield greater savings in the end. Contact our team today at Discount Window and Door for your window upgrade needs!

Whether you’re building a home or remodeling, you have a lot of choices to make. If you want to make sure you’re getting every detail of your home right, here’s what you need to know about interior doors.

Sizes

If you’re replacing your old interior door with a new one, sizing is important. According to SF Gate, most interior doors are between 28 and 32 inches in width. Interior doors are typically about 80 inches tall as well. If you’re not confident in your ability to accurately measure the size of your interior door, you can always have a contractor do it for you.

Door Type

There are two types of interior doors: pre-hung and slab. Pre-hung doors are the easiest to install because they’re preinstalled in a frame, so all you need to do is prepare a doorway in your home for a new door. Slab doors include a door without hinges, handles, or a frame. Slab doors are a bit harder to install, but they’re more customizable since you can buy them unfinished.

Handing

Handling refers to which side the door handle is on. If you’re replacing an interior door in your home, you probably want to look for a new door with the same handling. If you’re buying a new door, make sure the handling and swinging direction of the door work for the space where you’re installing it.

Materials

Interior doors are made of all sorts of materials, including wood, engineered wood, and PVC. Take a moment to compare some of the different materials and look at the pros and cons of each option. Choosing the right door materials helps you get the weight, durability, and aesthetic you want.

Finishes

Interior doors are available with all sorts of finishes. You can get a primed door that’s ready to paint, or you can get a completely unfinished door. There are also stained floors and prefinished floors if you want an easier option.

Whether you’re remodeling your home or building your dream home, you want to get all the little details right. The best interior doors are durable, stylish, and easy to install. If you need help choosing the right interior doors for your home, contact Discount Window and Door and we’ll take care of the rest.