The expert contractors here at Carolan understand that window replacement can feel like a huge undertaking, but it doesn’t have to. With some planning, the right contractor, and a realistic budget, replacing your windows in New Jersey is an easy way to increase your home’s value, curb appeal, and energy efficiency all at once. Selecting the right product, installation method, and contractor will ensure you have a worry-free and price-effective project.
In this article, we’re going to offer some window replacement tips and tricks that we’ve learned over the decades serving Northern New Jersey.
So you’re thinking about replacing your windows–here are some of the most important aspects to consider:
1. What are your biggest goals in replacing your windows?
Typically, customers are looking for a few things when replacing their windows:
- Increase the energy efficiency of their home
- Improve the look of their home, both inside and out
- Maximize their home value and curb appeal
Keep the balance of these in mind when selecting a window manufacturer. You should always ask your contractor for information about the energy efficiency of the proposed new windows, as well as ask to see, if possible, a couple of homes where the product has been previously installed.
2. Do I need my windows replaced using the standard replacement or new construction method?
There are two options for getting windows, standard replacement, or new construction. The replacement method entails fitting a new “replacement” window into the existing frame of an original window. This is a very common and more economic option, but you must make sure your contractor plans to insulate any hollow pockets around the replacement window.
The new construction method entails removing the trim and installing the window either in the old frame or in a new opening.
3. The State of the Original Windows
When you’re thinking about replacing your windows, there are a few questions you need to answer about the original windows in order to figure out the best strategy:
- What is the condition of your current windows?
- Are they original to your home, or previously replaced?
- Are they wooden or vinyl?
If you have stained wooden windows and trim and prefer to keep that look, you have two options: a range realistic wood laminates offered by Sunrise Vinyl Windows on the one hand, and pre-finished wooden replacement by Andersen, Pella, Marvin, on the other. Typically, vinyl replacement is a more economic option, while wooden replacement is best for those looking to most closely replicate what they have now, but in a more energy efficient form.
If your windows are original, you’ll need to know if they are large enough to accommodate a replacement application (which slightly reduces the glass size). Because of the Narrowline Frame from our manufacturer, Sunrise Windows, most of the time the answer to that question is no. Sunrise’s frames minimize one of the larger drawbacks to replacement windows, which is thick unappealing frames. The frames on Sunrise Windows are narrower than others on the market, and they are double contoured to add curb appeal and depth.
If they have been previously replaced, think about if you could benefit from the Narrowline Frames of Sunrise Windows–and if you’re not sure, feel free to call us at (973) 857-1555 and we can help advise you.
4. Do I need the window trim replaced inside or out?
When installing windows using the replacement method, typically the trim does not need to be disturbed. If your trim is in bad condition on all or some windows, or if you would like the trim painted, ask your contractor for a price ahead of time.
Some window install situations, call for the new construction method, which will always require re-trimming and thus added cost.
Next Steps
All in all, our best advice when thinking about replacing your windows in Northern New Jersey is to plan ahead! Know what you are trying to achieve, and work with your contractor to make it happen. If you have specific goals or concerns with your window replacement, make your contractor aware of them so you are all on the same page. And when you’re ready to get started, give us a shout and we’ll be happy to provide a free quote.