When you’re looking for a new home improvement product, what’s one of the first questions that come to mind? How much does it cost? Owning a home can be expensive, so knowing the price is one of the most important pieces of information to have when thinking about renovating.
There are many aspects of a window that factor into the price. Most window estimates include the removal of the old windows and installation of the new. But, there are other aspects that a homeowner might not think about.
* What energy package is available? There are several options to choose from when deciding on an energy package for your windows. The State of Connecticut requires at least 1 coat of Low E (Low-Emissive) on glass for replacement windows. The homeowner can also choose other options, such as a combination of Low E and Argon Gas or Krypton Gas or Double Low E and Argon Gas or Krypton Gas. Be sure to ask your contractor about the differences, so you choose the correct energy package for your home.
* What style of window should I purchase? There are several styles of windows available. Double Hung windows are said to be the most common style. However, there are also sliders, casements (better known as “crank out” windows), picture windows or picture window units, bays and bows, basement hoppers or awnings. There are also garden windows and specialty windows, like octagon or trapezoid shapes. Different styles mean different measurements which in turn may mean different pricing. Make sure to ask your contractor which styles may be the best fit for your home. Everyone wants their home to look good… for a reasonable price.
* What color window should I purchase? White is typically the most common. It adds a fresh, new look to any home. But, there are other options, other than plain white. Some options may include two tone finish with white on the outside and brown on the inside or reverse, with brown on the outside and white on the inside. Wood windows are also an option for those who currently have wood and want keep the same look and character of the home.
* Does the glass need to be tempered? Tempered glass (also called “Safety Gla
ss”) is required in many home situations for one main reason. It is much stronger than regular glass and does not break in the same way. Where as regular glass shatters, tempered glass breaks into small pieces, leaving less risk for injury. According to the International Code Council (ICC), tempered glass must be used for bathroom shower doors, any windows installed in a shower, any areas that may contain a sauna or hot tub, in any barrier walls made of glass or any windows that are within certain inches of a stairway or landing. Basically, if there is a chance of slipping or falling through the glass, it must be tempered. Safety first!
* Will my windows cost more if my home has Lead? If your house was built prior to 1978, your home may have lead base paint. There is a short lead test, called a “scratch test” that your contractor MUST do to indicate if lead prevention is necessary. The cost of your window installation may increase due to lead safe procedures. Make sure that your contractor is Lead-Safe Certified and knows the regulations and procedures involved in keeping your home safe and sound!
Fun Fact: United Inch is a unit of measure used by home improvement companies to determine the size of your window. United inches is calculated by simply adding the width of the window to the height. For example, a window with a rough opening size of 24″W X 36″H would equal 60 UI.
Advanced Windows Systems, LLC would be happy to help with any of your home improvement needs. Contact us at 860-829-8044 or 1-800-841-6544 to schedule a FREE in home estimate TODAY! Check us out on facebook and twitter too!
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