Window restoration is a transformative process that breathes new life into aging windows, preserving their historical integrity and increasing their energy efficiency. It also adds value to a home. On window installation day, you’ll need a caulking gun, a power drill, and a pry bar. If you’re installing renovation windows, you may also need a putty knife and safety glasses.

Insulation

In order to prevent heat loss through windows, it’s important to properly seal and insulate. This also reduces the amount of moisture that seeps into walls, which can cause rot, mildew, and mold. Insulating your windows is an inexpensive home improvement project, and it can save you money on your energy bills. You can use mineral wool or foam insulation to fill in the gaps between frames and the window. However, make sure not to compress it as its insulating qualities will be diminished.

Aside from insulating your windows, you can also improve their performance by installing double- or triple-paned windows. These can be glazed with different gases such as argon or krypton to block out harmful ultraviolet radiation and reduce the transfer of heat from inside to outside. Insulated windows can also help keep the temperature in your home consistent, resulting in energy savings. Depending on your budget, you can even choose windows with Low-E coatings.

Security

A major renovation that can recoup up to 75 percent of the costs when it’s time to resell, new windows are an excellent investment for homeowners. They increase energy efficiency and improve the overall aesthetic of a home. They also come with a range of security features that make it harder for burglars to enter the house. Some of the key security elements that are included in replacement windows include laminated and tempered glass, reinforced frames and sashes, and multi-point locking systems. This makes it more difficult for potential burglars to gain unauthorized entry into the house, and they are effective deterrents.

Burglaries don’t just cost money; they also deprive families of peace of mind and diminish a home’s comforts. Installing new windows renovation with security features is a good way to keep your family and belongings safe. However, remember that these additions don’t guarantee that your house will never be broken into. There are always ways for burglars to break into homes, even with the best security measures in place.

Aesthetics

Window frames and colors play a major role in shaping the aesthetics of a home. They can harmonize or contrast with paint colors and create balanced or dynamic ambiances. New windows are also considered one of the top home improvements for increasing value and recouping the investment upon resale. The material of the frame, size, and shape, and the number of glass panes all influence the price, durability, and energy efficiency of windows. JELD-WEN offers many options to help meet your needs and budget including single or double-hung, casement, sliders, bay or bow, awning, and picture (fixed pane) windows.

Aesthetics should not be overlooked because your window renovation project will affect the way you and your family use your space. Having functional and visually appealing windows will improve your quality of life, and make your house stand out in the neighborhood. So when it’s time to sell, your home will be more attractive and attract more potential buyers.

Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient windows can greatly reduce your home’s energy bills, thereby improving the comfort of your home year-round. Older windows are prone to air leakage and let the cold outside, forcing your furnace and AC system to work harder to keep your house at an even temperature. Newer technology prevents the warm or cooled air from escaping and makes it easier for your HVAC system to maintain the right temperatures. This also helps reduce your carbon footprint by lowering the demand for power generated from fossil fuels.

Replacing your windows with more energy-efficient ones can take a couple of years for the initial investment to be completely covered by the monthly savings, but many local governments offer rebates and incentives for this type of renovation. Additionally, potential home buyers are increasingly looking for energy-efficient features in a property. This is because it can significantly reduce their utility bills and carbon emissions. In addition, homeowners who incorporate energy-efficient windows in their renovation projects can enjoy increased home value.

Conclusion

Restoring original windows is better for a historic building than replacing them. It’s less expensive and less invasive, plus it adds value to the property. Give the sash and frame a light sand with fine grit to roughen it up slightly to create a good base for painting. Clean away the dust and repeat as needed.