5 Types Of Exterior Doors And Their Qualities

exterior doors

When considering how best to lower your home’s energy bills, the issue may lie within the windows and doors that you use. Although about 15% of your home’s wall space is taken up by windows, you also need to prioritize energy-efficient exterior doors. Both doors and windows can possess sealing issues that can ultimately result in heat escaping from your home. This will trigger an overworked response in your HVAC system and ultimately lead to higher energy bills.

Therefore, when it comes time to replace your exterior doors, you need to consider the different types of doors carefully. While you should make sure that you invest in doors that you like on an aesthetic level, it’s important to prioritize doors that will last for the long term, while also tending to your energy needs. With that in mind, let’s look into some of the different types of styles that you should consider when shopping for replacement doors.

1. Steel Entry Doors

Let’s consider first steel entry doors, as these may be somewhat less familiar to you than other types of exterior doors. This is something to consider if you’ve previously experienced security issues with your home and are worried about your entry door being broken into or damaged again. Steel entry doors certainly can create a more secure home, and can also add a certain level of intimidation to potential intruders once they realize what they’re dealing with.

Steel doors are also more able to withstand severe weather. If you want to invest in doors that will last for a significant amount of time, steel doors are among your best bets. They usually come with foam core insulation, therefore locking in heat throughout the year. You could either invest in a door that looks like it’s made of steel or one that has been finished in a different color, with a wood grain effect.

2. Wood Doors

We often assume that most exterior doors are made of wood, when in fact the reality is that most exterior doors are made to look like they’re made of wood. That’s because homeowners love the appearance of wood, even when it isn’t necessarily the best option on a practical level. While wood doors can be very sturdy, they’re not without their weaknesses. They can be susceptible to rotting, warping, and expanding due to moisture which of course means that they often don’t last as long as other types of doors.

Wood doors are also more expensive than most other types of doors and require regular maintenance in order to maintain their appearances. Wood doors need to be painted or stained every few years. Depending on where you live, they may actually need to be tended to even more often.

3. Fiberglass Doors

Fiberglass doors are popular alternatives to wood doors and have actually been growing in favor within recent history. They do not rot, warp, or expand and can be modeled after wood doors in appearance.

Like steel entry doors, fiberglass doors often come with foam core insulation, and they’re resistant to scratching or denting. If a steel door seems too heavy or intimidating, you may want to consider investing in a fiberglass door instead.

4. Sliding Patio Doors

Needless to say, entry doors are not the only types of exterior doors on the market. You may alternately need to consider the best investments for patio doors. Sliding patio doors are popular for a reason. They can come in aluminum, wood, vinyl, and operate on rolling tracks that make them easy to manage.

Though sliding doors can be energy efficient, this often depends on the materials from which they’re made. In this sense, aluminum and vinyl are often the best choices.

5. French Patio Doors

The advantages of French patio doors are clear. They create a sense of elegance, while at the same time allowing a good deal of light. These patio doors are not necessarily as convenient as sliding doors, but can greatly enhance the appearance of a home.

Keep in mind that when choosing a door, you should make sure that you’re taking into consideration its durability, the location in which you live, and its aesthetic appeal. With that in mind, you’re bound to make the right choice.

5 Steps to Take If Your Windows and Doors Are Inefficient

sliding glass doors

So you’ve lowered your air conditioning and heating needs, you’ve made sure that you don’t keep any lights on unnecessarily, and you’ve made an effort to turn off electronic devices when they aren’t in use. But your energy bills are still higher than you anticipated. What are you doing wrong?

In many cases, the issue lies with your doors and windows. Quite often, cool and hot air can escape through windows and doors. This leads to your HVAC system overcompensating in order to make up for the loss, which can ultimately result in your energy bills rising. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that that air leaks around your windows and doors can add up to 10% to your heating bills. Therefore, you should consider how you can best cut down your energy bills through your doors and windows. Is it possible that you would lose less energy if your sliding glass doors were updated? Should you consider different types of replacement windows? Let’s explore the different options below.

1. Have Seals Inspected

You should consider having the seals for your entry doors and windows inspected before you move forward with any replacements. It’s possible that the seals themselves could be mended before you spend on any outright replacements. Although sliding glass doors are attractive, some of them may have seals that are less secure. Therefore, you should see if your doors and windows are even capable of sealing properly first, as this could be the issue you’re dealing with.

2. Consider the Materials

Different door and window materials offer different results in terms of energy efficiency. For example, wooden frames may be more prone to rot, which ultimately results in more air escaping your home. Vinyl is a different material that you should consider for both windows and doors. Vinyl offers a certain level of insulation that traps heat within the home whether you’re using sliding glass doors and French doors. Metal frames are similarly energy efficient, as are fiberglass frames. You should keep this in mind as you begin updating the doors and windows within your home.

3. Think About Age

Did you invest in an older home? It’s possible that your windows and doors, regardless of their types or the materials from which they are made, need to be updated. Certain materials do last longer than others. As previously mentioned, wooden frames can be more prone to damage and rot, which would mean that they need to be replaced sooner than metal, vinyl, or fiberglass frames. If you can determine your door and window frames are more than 20 years old, you should consider having them replaced sooner rather than later.

4. Change the Style

It’s possible that you may be better off with different styles of windows and doors. If your French doors need to be replaced anyway, you may want to think about replacing them with doors that will better accommodate your energy needs. If you invest in sliding glass doors that are designed to be energy efficient with locking air chambers, you may be able to lower your energy bills significantly. For that matter, this is a great time to consider updating the appearance of your home.

5. Invest in Energy-Efficient Frames

Of course, you don’t have to change the style of your doors and windows in order to update them. Keep in mind that you can simply have them replaced with energy-efficient versions of the same styles.

You have options available as a homeowner if you want to lower your energy bills. The cause of the issue could be much simpler than you think or it could require you to replace your windows and doors entirely. No matter what the issue may be, approach it carefully and don’t jump to conclusions.

4 Benefits Of Buying Aluminum Windows

aluminum frames

So you need to replace your windows. There are a lot of reasons why you may have come to this decision, and not all of them have to do with your windows becoming suddenly damaged. Window damage can build up over time, and for that matter can be the result of windows being improperly installed, or the wrong window types being used for the wrong purpose. Not all types of windows are right for residential purposes, remember. Another reason why you may be considering new windows is that your energy bills are higher than you might like them to be. One of the best ways to save money on windows is to simply install new ones that are better fitted and more energy efficient than your previous windows. Now, if you’re considering new windows, you should certainly think about windows with aluminum frames for a number of different reasons. But if you haven’t used aluminum windows before, those reasons may not come to you immediately. Let’s look into the benefits of aluminum windows, and why all homeowners should consider them.

1. Lasting Power

When you really think about it, windows take quite a beating. We depend on windows to protect us from the cold and the rain, and it’s no wonder that some materials end up breaking down more quickly than others. It’s key that you own windows that are suitable for a variety of different types of weather, not only to keep you safe but to ensure that you don’t switch out your windows prematurely. This is why windows with aluminum frames are so appealing. Aluminum is quite durable, certainly more durable than wood and other materials. It can stand up to the elements for years, and even decades. Not only does this save you time and energy; over the years, it will also save you money that you would otherwise spend on prematurely replacing your windows.

2. Design Variety

Certain types of materials used to create windows just aren’t right for all types of windows. Therefore, you might not be able to commission windows made of the same material, from the same company, for all of the windows in your home if there are different window styles throughout the house. This is not only inconvenient but often costly, causing you to spend more as your source different types of windows made of different materials. This is why a lot of people choose to have their windows made with aluminum frames. Aluminum is flexible, and therefore can be shaped to accommodate a variety of different designs. For that matter, this metal is also strong, despite its flexibility. It can therefore accommodate large panes of glass as well.

3. They’re Easy To Clean

Dirty windows can quickly go from annoying to unsightly. It’s all too easy for dust and dirt to cake on window frames, even if you’re able to keep the glass window panes clean. You’ll quickly notice that on wooden frames, dust can actually smudge deeply and become incredibly difficult to remove, resulting in you taking hours to clean your windows. Aluminum frames are much easier to keep clean in this sense, requiring little more than a quick wipe down.

4. Cost Efficiency

The pricing for windows with aluminum frames is usually fairly competitive, keeping them within budget for a lot of different homeowners. But the cost efficiency of these windows really kicks in when you have them over time. Aluminum windows help lower your energy bills, which is where windows tend to become more expensive without a lot of homeowners even realizing it. It’s estimated by some that heat gain and loss through windows are responsible for about 25% to 30% of all residential heating and cooling energy usage, which of course means that windows have a lot to do with your energy bills running up. Aluminum windows actually come with a thermal break, which essentially reduces or prevents thermal energy from flowing from one conductive material to another. This enables aluminum windows to hold in or trap heat much better than windows made from other materials.

There are so many reasons why aluminum windows are superior; these are just a few. But they must be considered by those who are shopping for new windows.

4 Signs That You Should Replace Your Windows

window types

Your windows won’t last forever. As much as a lot of us rely on our windows as basic parts of our homes, we don’t always check to see if they need to be replaced. In fact, many of us buy homes without even checking to see how old the windows might be. Windows do have a lifespan, with the typical residential windows lasting around 15 to 20 years. Fortunately, replacing your windows doesn’t have to be as much of a pain as you might think. A lot of companies that sell different window types also sell doors, which means that if need be you can replace several different products at once. With that being said, you may not need to replace your windows due to old age. You may want to change the look of your windows in order to have a more aesthetically pleasing home. Perhaps you want to upgrade your windows in order to make them more energy-efficient and lower your bills over time. No matter why you’re looking for new windows, you have options. The most important thing is knowing when to replace them. Let’s look into that below.

1. They’re Hard To Close

The last thing you want is a drafty window, and at first, you may blame yourself for not properly closing your windows. But the fact is that a draft isn’t always your fault. Perhaps you have the wrong window types for your home, which means that they aren’t aligning properly. On the other hand, your windows could be worn down from over-use, and therefore more difficult to shut now. If your windows weren’t installed properly in the first place, another reason why they may need to be replaced, they could have balance issues, which would keep you from closing or even locking them properly. If your windows are especially old, they may suffer from rust and rot issues. No matter why your windows are having difficulties shutting, you need to take care of those issues, and that may result in a replacement. Not only does being unable to properly close or lock your window make your home draftier, less comfortable, and potentially less energy efficient, it’s also quite unsafe.

2. Condensation

Condensation may not seem to be much of a problem, especially with some window types over others. Of course, condensation or ice, in general, aren’t necessarily problems. But if that liquid is occurring between panes of glass, it could be indicative of the need for window replacements. The issue is that if this kind of moisture is gathering between panes of glass, it could mean that the seals are failing in your window panes. The reason why those additional panes are there is that they create insulation, which makes your windows energy efficient. Essentially, if the panes are loose or cracked in some way, they allow air to release, which renders your windows inefficient. At that point, you should definitely consider looking into window replacements at the minimum.

3. Damaged Window Frames

You may not think that window frames matter all that much and that the actual glass parts of the windows are more concerning. Now, different window types have different types of frames, but if those frames are damaged, regardless of the types of windows that you have, you could be in trouble. Touch your window frames. Are they soft? Then they may be damaged beyond repair and need to be replaced. If they’re chipped in some way, they could allow for an eventual breakdown or sagging that makes them difficult to use. Of course, soft and sagging windows are also indicative of rot, which makes them ultimately unusable no matter what.

4. Noise Breakthroughs

Cool air isn’t the only thing you need to worry about seeping through your windows. If you’re hearing much more noise than usual, it’s time to look into a window replacement. A noise breakthrough indicates that your windows are either improperly sealed or badly sealed.

There are so many problems that can affect your windows. When properly cared for, they can last for years. But if you don’t take care of your windows, you could be dealing with problems for a long time.

The Many Benefits of Window Replacement

new windows

Although often overlooked, windows and doors are some of the most important aspects of your home. Windows affect almost every aspect of your home, whether you like it or not. If you have new windows, the effects may be positive — but if you have windows that are in need of repair, you might experience some negative impacts.

 

If you need window replacements, do not delay and speak with a professional who can help you find the right fit for you and your home. Are you considering replacing your windows? You should look into this helpful guide that outlines the benefits of getting new windows for your home.

 

Lower Energy Costs

Replacing your windows proves to be one of the most cost-effective decisions you can make. According to Energy Star, replacing your windows with energy-efficient windows that meet federal standards can lower energy bills by 7% to 15%. Not only can that help you live more sustainably, but it can also save you a lot of money on a monthly basis.

 

UV Protection

Natural light is a wonderful thing to have in the home, as it can brighten up any room. But did you know that this can actually cause your furniture to start fading? To fight against UV damage, you will want to get new windows that are specifically designed to block out more UV rays. This can help to keep your furniture looking newer for longer. What’s more, it can potentially protect your skin, as you’re still prone to UV damage when you’re inside!

 

Easy Maintenance

Getting replacement windows will help you save time and money on home maintenance. This is because windows come in a variety of different options and designs that can make things easier for the homeowner. For example, there are easy-clean glass and certain shade options that make windows more low-maintenance than they were before. The less time you have to spend on household chores, the better your life will be.

 

Safer Environment

Quality windows and doors are available with glass that can help to ensure your house is safer. Tempered glass is less likely to cause injury when broken. This is because it does not break off into small pieces. Laminated glass is different and has a polymer interlayer that holds together if broken, which helps to add an extra layer of protection.

 

Noise Reduction

Nobody likes to hear the outside world when they are trying to relax at home. Noisy streets can be difficult to deal with. However, new windows with certain window materials can drastically improve the sound barrier. Noise reduction is often amplified with installing high-quality glass.

 

Curb Appeal

Window replacement does more than just help with energy costs, safety, and noise reduction. New windows can also help to give those who drive past your home a great first impression. This can help to boost the value of your home, which may be beneficial if you are looking to place your home up on the market. Regardless, you are sure to leave a lasting impression on those who visit.

 

Home Value

New windows also help to boost the overall value of your home. Replacement windows ensure that the windows of your home are not only looking great, but they are also working properly. This is often one of the first things a potential buyer will check before purchasing the home, often requesting that the seller fixes up the windows before they go through with the purchase.

 

Our dedicated team of professionals is skilled in all window types and will find you the perfect discount windows for your home. Our team members are waiting to help assist you on your next project when it comes to new windows and doors. So give us a call today.

5 Types Of Windows Every Homeowner Should Consider

windows

Windows don’t last forever. Though residential windows can potentially last for around two decades, eventually everything needs to be replaced, and these are no exception. There are a lot of factors to consider when it comes time to replace your windows, especially if you’re looking to save money. After all, about 30% of a home’s heat is lost through its windows, and the more your HVAC system has to make up for that lost heat, the higher your energy bills become. Furthermore, the appearance of your windows can have a surprisingly major impact on your house’s overall presentation and look. Therefore, you need to consider what you’re doing when you choose new windows. They could very well impact the value of your home. With that being said, let’s look into the different window types that are available.

 

1. Double Hung

 

For most homeowners, the double hung window is the standard. In terms of this window type, both the bottom and the top sash of the window are operable. This means that they are both easier to clean and facilitate better air flow. A double hung window can be made from a number of different window materials, which can potentially affect the overall cost. But in general, these types of windows will cost anywhere from $450 to $600.

 

2. Single Hung

 

A single hung window is also very common, with the main difference being that only the bottom sash is operable. This means that this window is slightly harder to clean and doesn’t let in quite as much air. It really depends on whether or not you prefer double hung or single hung windows on a personal level. One thing to keep in mind: the single hung style is cheaper, coming in at around $170 to $360.

 

3. Arched

 

A lot of people love the arched style because it’s a bit more aesthetically pleasing than typical double hung and single hung styles. These windows aren’t necessarily easier to clean and don’t change the ventilation, but they certainly add a beautiful elegance to your home. It probably won’t come as a surprise that these windows are somewhat mid-range in their typical prices, landing between $325 and $500.

 

4. Bay

 

The bay style window is arguably even more gorgeous than an arched window. This type of window protrudes from the house, which makes it a bit different from what most of us are used to and makes the window style rather distinct. Of course, these windows are much more difficult to install because they require a degree of alteration to the home. You’ll need to hire a specific bay window installer, which means the cost may be higher, usually averaging anywhere from $1,150 to $3,350. Usually, there is a center window with another window on either side at 30- to 40-degree angles.

 

5. Bow

 

A bow window is similar to a bay window, but it differs in some key ways. It’s curved and custom, and it creates a circular area that runs along the home’s exterior. This can actually make your home appear larger than it actually is, which is one reason why a lot of homeowners favor this type of window. Sometimes, the types of panels that you choose to make up the window can drive the cost up further. This makes it, occasionally, more expensive than a bay window. Therefore, the cost of this type of window usually sits between $1,400 to $3,800.

 

There are a lot of different factors that may affect the type of window that you ultimately choose. But no matter what, you need to be careful about your decision. Weigh the cost of the window against the return on investment it may yield, and consider whether or not you need to cut down on your energy bills as well, and how you can possibly choose the kinds of windows that cut those costs. Think, too, about how much time you want to spend on the installation. With that in mind, happy window shopping!

5 Signs It’s Time For New Windows

windows and doors

One of the most important aspects of your home is the durability of your windows and doors. It is estimated that at least 15% of the walls in your home are made up of windows. Old or compromised windows and doors could cause leaks, high energy bills, and lower property value. Additional signs may be excessive outdoor noise, such as road noise, or if you feel a significant draft through your windows, indicating worn out seals.

Replacement windows and doors can also lower your energy bill, as it allows you to keep your home at your desired temperature. This prevents your HVAC systems from overworking themselves and creates a more efficient home.

Windows Are Drafty

Feeling a draft coming through your window is one the most notable signs that your windows may need to be replaced. Drafty windows can cause you to feel cold and prevent your home from being energy efficient and cost effective. Surprisingly, a drafty window can actually significantly affect the overall temperature of your home, further highlighting the importance of window replacement.

Outside Noise Is Highly Audible

Another important sign that it may be time to replace your windows is that you may hear vehicles and other noises outside almost as clear as if the window was open. This could be a sign of a broken or compromised seal, and replacement windows would be recommended. Old and noisy windows can significantly reduce the overall comfort of your home, as your home will rarely be completely silent. This could also be caused by older single pane windows, as newer double paned glass would significantly block noises coming from outside.

Window Condensation

Condensation buildup is also an important sign it may be time to get new windows. This is especially prevalent in double paned glass, as condensation between the two panes could either mean the seals have failed or were not installed correctly by the manufacturer or installer. Compromised seals could also lead to leaks, drafts, and other issues caused by old windows.

Energy Bills Are Higher Than Usual

If you are suddenly receiving higher than usual energy bills, this could be related to insufficient or older windows letting either hot or cold air out of the home. This could potentially cost you thousands if new windows are not installed promptly. Furthermore, you have the potential to increase your carbon footprint due to your HVAC systems either constantly running or running inefficiently.

Window Panes Are Cracked

Cracked window frames are another obvious sign that your windows may need to be replaced. Cracked panes could be the cause of drafts, noise, and condensation, as they have lost most of their integrity. Cracked panes can also have a negative aesthetic factor, as your home may look older or not sufficiently maintained.

It is important to inspect your residential windows and ensure that they are all intact. Old, single paned glass can cause higher energy bills and hinder the look of your home. Although they may initially seem expensive, replacing your windows will deliver you a significant return on investment when either selling your home, or on your monthly energy bill.

How To Choose The Right Front Replacement Door

Your front door is one of the first exterior features that visitors notice about your home. The style and design of your door can provide your guests with a glimpse of your personality and personal taste. Choosing the right size, finishing, material, and accents for your door can help set your home apart within the neighborhood.

Again, old and worn-out exterior doors are easy targets for burglars. The cracks and spaces let cold drafts in, overworking your air conditioning systems.

New replacement doors can increase your home’s security, improve aesthetic value as well as lower your energy bills. But how do you pick the right front door?

Here are three simple tips to help you find the right door for your home.

1. Replacement Door Material

Your choice of material for your door plays a critical role in defining its aesthetics and functionality. The most popular materials are wood, fiberglass, and steel.

Wooden doors and frames are perfect for any home. There is always a wood door that can accentuate any architectural style that you come across. However, the doors may require frequent maintenance as they are susceptible to cracking and warping.

Fiberglass and steel doors are of premium quality, with lower maintenance costs. The materials are also highly durable, resistant to warping, rotting, and cracking.

2. Door Style and Design

The replacement doors you choose will set the mood and tone for your home’s exterior. It is important to take time and choose a door design that complements the theme of your house. You can look for inspiration from the online space. Ensure you get ideas and tips that match your vision for your door. You can also opt to browse the DWD website to explore more options, such as sliding glass doors.

The first step would be to choose your preferred color. Replacement doors come in a range of beautiful finishes. Select a hue that complements both the interior and exterior of your home. You can opt for the timeless beauty offered by painted doors, or perhaps the grain-stained doors that provide a more authentic wood appearance.

For entry doors with a glass option, the glazing you choose may have a profound effect on its look and feel. Choose your favorite glass pattern that provides a balance on privacy and letting in the natural light. Two or three-paned glass panels may have better energy efficiency.

3. Replacement Door Accessories and Features

Most exterior door suppliers provide a variety of fixtures and fittings that accentuate the style and functionality of your door. You can go with a simplistic door handle for a modern, contemporary look or a rustic handle for traditional house models. Take time to choose the best accessories, including door hinges, draught-proofing strips, and locks. Ensure you select a door with a secure lock system to help fortify your home against burglars.

Bonus Tip: Work with Window and Door Experts

It does not hurt to seek a second opinion from replacement door experts as you continue with your search. Quick conversations with a certified dealer, an independent contractor, or a store rep at DWD can help expand your ideas on the most viable options for your home.

Discount Window and Door is a trusted replacement doors vendor in Los Angeles and a certified Milgard dealer. The qualified experts can help you find the right door for your front entrance.

How To Know If It’s Time To Replace The Windows In Your Home

The state of the windows in your home greatly affects its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. It is estimated that up to 30% of a home’s heat during the winter months is lost through ineffective and poorly insulated windows. Similar to windows, doors have a similar effect on heating and cooling systems, as copious amounts of air escape through poorly insulated doors. Furthermore, modern interior doors will increase your home’s market value and add increased efficiency in keeping certain rooms in the house cool.

Benefits of Replacing Outdated Windows

Greater Energy Efficiency

Outdated windows and doors allow hot and cold air to exit your home, therefore, increasing the strain on your home’s HVAC systems. It is critical for an energy-efficient home to have updated doors and windows. Some signs of worn-out windows and doors are excess levels of condensation, as well as strong drafts being present.

Decreases Your Monthly Energy Costs

Similar to many homeowners, you dread receiving your monthly energy bill in the mail, especially during times of extremely hot or cold weather. This is due to your HVAC systems working overtime to either provide hot or cold air to keep your home’s temperature at the desired level.

Outdated and inefficient windows can significantly increase your monthly energy costs, therefore, investing in replacement windows is important to save you significant cash. In many instances, replacement windows almost always pay for themselves through the significant savings in energy costs.

Providing Substantial Curb Appeal

By replacing your windows and doors, you can add significant curb appeal to your home, and greatly increase your property’s market value. This will prove advantageous when selling your home, as the new windows and doors will also stand out to potential buyers. Furthermore, replacing residential windows can add to the comfort and security of your home, as they are oftentimes double-paned.

Replacing Interior Doors

Replacing outdated and dilapidated interior doors will also increase your home’s value. Replacing old doors with modern, smart looking doors will transform your home into a vibrant, contemporary space.

Reduced Maintenance Costs

New windows are practically maintenance-free, and only require regular cleaning to maintain their integrity. Furthermore, new windows will keep excess sunlight from entering your home, and assist in retaining the color of your walls and furniture.

Better Insulation

Insulation is critical to the energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness of your home. Furthermore, new windows come in handy for those living in highly populated, residential areas, as new windows are more effective at preventing excess noise from entering your home.

Why You Should Invest In Quality Windows and Doors

When investing in windows and doors, it is important that you purchase a quality, double-paned glass for increased insulation. Furthermore, quality windows and doors have a higher chance of providing you with a return on investment, as they will last longer and be more effective at reducing energy costs.

Investing in quality windows and doors is important, and it is critical to purchase them from a reputable manufacturer, such as Milgard windows. Milgard produces quality windows and doors, proven to reduce energy costs and lower monthly energy bills.

The replacement of outdated windows and doors is important to the energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness of your home. New windows oftentimes pay for themselves, as the reduced energy costs allow homeowners to have the peace of mind that their home is well insulated and efficient.

When Should You Replace The Windows In Your Home?

As a homeowner, you may often wonder when to replace your old drafty windows that contribute to high energy costs and inefficiency. In fact, drafty and uninsulated windows contribute to 25%-30% of the energy used by your home’s HVAC systems.

It is important to know when to replace the windows in your home, and to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly. It is also important to purchase the correct type of window for your home, including aluminum casement windows, and modern double paned windows for increased insulation. Some of the most popular contemporary windows are the aluminum window series.

Ideally, you should replace your windows every 15-20 years for the most efficiency, and lowest energy costs. However, you may have to replace them sooner if you feel drafts or condensation.

When To Replace The Windows In Your Home

Modern day, double paned windows should last up to 20 years, therefore, investing money in quality, energy star rated windows will save an exponential amount on your electric bill for years to come. Although windows are designed to last up to two decades, it is important to check your windows regularly to ensure that they are working properly.

Experiencing A Draft Through The Window

If you feel a draft near your windows, replacement windows may be on the horizon. If you feel a draft through the window, be sure to also check the window frame for any significant gaps. If any of these issues are present, it may be time for replacement windows.

Experiencing High Energy Bills

If you are experiencing increasing energy bills month after month, this may be due to outdated windows, as either the cold or hot air, depending on which season it is, is escaping through the windows. This leads to your HVAC systems working harder, and utilizing more energy to get your home to the desired temperature.

Experiencing Condensation On Your Windows

Condensation is one of the key factors in determining whether your windows need replacing. This oftentimes means that the seals insulating the panes are either broken or damaged, causing condensation from the different air temperatures on the inside and outside of your home. If you are experiencing excessive condensation, it may be time for new windows.

Most Efficient Replacement Windows For Your Home

It can be a painstaking process for homeowners to decide which type of windows would best suit their home. There are many types of windows to choose from including an aluminum window series, which are contemporary windows for those who enjoy keeping up with the latest technologies. Furthermore, there are various manufacturers, such as the Milgard aluminum casement windows, in their aluminum window series, which feature contemporary style and energy efficiency.

No matter which type of window you choose for your home, it is important to ensure that they have a high energy star rating, and are guaranteed for at least twenty years in order to receive the maximum return on your investment.