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It’s a general rule that partial replacements are recommended when it’s necessary. Maybe, you have broken panes, or some windows do not open and close properly. Here, you can change only the affected windows. Otherwise, you’re better off planning for a complete replacement job.
Exterior remodeling professionals agree if you have the budget, customers are better served by replacing as many windows as they can at once. According to Ganser Company, if the windows in your home are more than 20 years old and showing signs of wear, just start planning and budgeting for window replacement.
But while these replacement projects are common, are they a prudent strategy? Does it save you money? This article will guide you to help you decide if your window installation needs a complete or a partial project. Your circumstances should help you determine which option works best for you.
How to Determine if Your Windows Need to Be Replaced
With basic inspection, you should be in a position to determine when a window needs to be replaced or repaired. Here are signs to look out for on your windows:
- Drafts
If you feel a breeze that wafts into the room even when the windows are closed, it’s a draft problem. Here, you’re likely to be dealing with faulty seals or an overall poor installation. As a short-term measure, you can have that point sealed. Ultimately, you’ll need to have that window replaced by.
- Troublesome Operation
Windows should open and close effortlessly. Forcing them to work means that wear and tear has left them imbalanced, or the frame is damaged. Remember, apart from the normal airing of the house, windows provide a crucial escape route in case of an emergency. A stuck window can block your exit when you need it the most, so you’re better off having it replaced.
- Visible Damage
The most conspicuous signs of damage appear on the frame, particularly wooden frames which absorb water. This then leads to swelling and eventually rotting. Once the rotting process has started, a window replacement is inevitable. Know the condition of your window panes, and watch out for the following signs: cracks, scratches, chips, gaps, leaks and condensation.
- Poor Soundproofing
If you live in a busy neighborhood, soundproof windows preserve your peace and quiet. Going for double or triple pane windows would be a good idea as they do a better job of making sure the outside noise stays outside.
Advantages of Replacing Windows All at Once
- Reduced Replacement Costs
Buying in bulk reduces the cost per unit. The transport costs are reduced, too; you can have all the windows plus the window installation materials transported in a single trip. The labor costs are also economical. Besides, the new windows are durable, and the maintenance costs in the following years will be minimal.
- Reduced Energy Costs
Modern windows are made of materials that improve the energy efficiency of your home. These materials enhance insulation, so your windows retain the warmth during winter and keep out the heat during summer more efficiently. If you change all the windows at once, you get maximum energy saving and your energy bill drops significantly.
- Improved Aesthetics
If you decide to go for a partial replacement and wait a couple of years before the next phase, there’s a chance that the materials/model/styles of windows from the first batch aren’t available anymore. You will then be forced to go for a different style that may not fit well with the previous one.
The condition of the windows will also be uneven. By the time you’re installing the last batch, the first ones could be showing signs of wear already. Your home will end up with a mismatched look which will work against you if you’re selling.
- Increased Home Value
If you’re planning to sell your home, a new set of modern windows will significantly increase its appeal and ultimately its price. According to exteriors remodeling experts, a window replacement project can return up to 70% of its value upon resale. New windows affect the aesthetics of the house internally and externally.
Disadvantages of Replacing Windows All at Once
- Cost
The replacement project will not come cheap. For most people, it takes months or even years of planning and budgeting. Unless you’re planning to sell your house, the cost of the project will set you back a tidy sum, so you need to ask yourself if you’re ready for such an expense.
- Style
Once the job is done, it will take time before you can replace your windows again. During that period, new designs come up every other day. Wouldn’t you want a piece of these new developments in your house? If you replace your windows in bits, you can incorporate emerging trends. It is possible to have different designs blend and complement each other.
- Higher Risks
If the quality of your windows and their installation turn out to be underwhelming, you have more to lose. Your hard-earned money is just about down the drain, and your comfort and safety are compromised. If you’re replacing just a few windows, you can cut your losses by engaging a different window replacement contractor in the next phase.
In the end, the right option for your home will really come down to the exact problems that you’re having with your windows, how effective the existing windows are and what your budget is for the project.
If your windows are leaking energy, are very outdated or are not functioning properly, then a full window replacement is a very beneficial option.
If you just have one window that’s acting up, then the rest may be able to wait until you’re ready to go ahead with a full replacement.
As long as your windows are secure and are not leaving you with high energy bills, and the window problems are not causing serious damage to your home, then you have a bit of flexibility.
If you are in need of new window and door installation, roof repair and replacement or more, Ganser has the answer! With over 80 years of craftsmanship, there isn’t anything we haven’t seen. Between our knowledgeable sales consultants and our experienced crew, we are able to give any customer the answers to solve their problem. No project is too big, too small or too challenging!
Call us today at (608) 699-6492, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.