Selecting the right window
When choosing windows for your house, many factors should be taken into consideration. Windows can be made from many materials, such as wood, vinyl, and aluminum. Most windows come in various shapes and sizes. Single-hung windows are the most common type of window sold today. They are easily recognizable by their operating hardware.
Tools used during Installation and Maintenance
This is a list of some tools that are used when installing window replacement.
- Phillips Head Screwdriver – Used to remove the old screws from your windows and frames and place new ones.
- Putty Knife or Stripper tool – The putty knife is used to scrape off any excess caulk once the windows are in place. A stripper tool can be used instead if you don’t have a putty knife on hand.
- Paint Roller – Used for evenly applying caulk around framing and edges of your interior window trim. This will prevent any gaps from forming between the two surfaces.
- Tape Measurer – Use it to measure windows and frames before and during installation.
- Utility Knife – Used to cut/trim the caulk after it dries. Make sure you don’t use the end with the replaceable blades because grease in your hands will make them slip right out of that little socket.
- J-Channel Pliers – Used for setting up J-channel around doors and windows. Many times these come with your j-channel material, so be sure to check if this tool is included.
- Hammer – Used to remove old window frames and install new nails in new window frames. Some people also like using a claw hammer for prying away stubborn caulk residue.
- Stud Finder – Used to locate the studs of a wall so that you can securely attach your window frame with nails or screws. Many times, window frames will be placed directly over electrical wiring, and using them as long nails for attaching the frame is not a wise option if it poses an electrical hazard.
Types of Windows
Windows come in lots of different shapes and sizes. You have to keep your home in mind when choosing windows, as well as the style you want for each room. The first step in determining a new window is to know what material they are made of and how they open. This will save you time shopping around for the right windows.
After that, you need to consider which design will compliment the architecture of the home. Consider the amount of natural light that comes into your home throughout the day and the colors that would work best in each area. With all this information with shopping for a window should be more accessible.
The most commonly used windows are casement and double-hung. Casement windows open with an outward hinge that can be opened by hand. Double-hung windows have two sashes hinged at opposite ends that slide up or down into their frame, allowing air from both the top and bottom sides of the window.
Window Replacement Cost
It is not obvious to understand how much money you’re going to need for window replacement. The first thing you want to do is take the number of windows in your home and add 10% to that number. That’s the absolute minimum amount you’re going to have out of pocket when it comes time for window replacement, but fortunately, it’s also a good rule of thumb for most people as far as pricing goes.
With any home improvement project, it’s crucial that you get several estimates before making any big decisions. You should expect to pay more if there are complicated aspects to your job or if the person doing the work is known for quality craftsmanship.
What to Consider When Replacing Your Windows
Replacing windows is a big decision. It’s not something that needs to be done as soon as possible, so you can take your time in deciding what type of replacement window will suit your home and lifestyle the best. When considering the cost of having your old windows replaced with new ones, always remember that you usually get what you pay for – although there are some exceptions to replacement windows.
If replacing all of the windows in your home seems like an unaffordable option, or if you’re looking for one or two new ones for a specific area (such as your kitchen or living room), think about installing leftover stain glass instead. Excess stain glass is made from existing pieces of glass and can be incorporated into regular-sized windows, allowing you to have the look of a traditional stained-glass window without the high cost. For more information, ask our experts on window replacements.
