Replacement Windows in Virginia by
The Window Replacement Company
Replacement windows take the place
of existing windows when they have become deteriorated, drafty or
non-functional. However, replacing original windows on older houses can cause
irreparable harm. In many historic preservation districts, window replacement is
only an option of last resort. New replacement windows may greatly decrease
energy loss and outside noise, compared to a single-pane window.
The addition of a storm window to a single-pane window can often outperform some
replacement units. The majority of newer replacement windows carry the "Energy
Star" rating for home efficiency, and may be custom ordered to meet the
customers preferences, both functionally, and aesthetically. While most
replacement windows are used in residential applications, there are numerous
commercial applications as well, such as storefronts, offices, and workshops.
Replacement vs. new-construction windows
Replacement windows should be distinguished from new-construction windows.
New-construction windows have a "fin" along the outer frame. This fin provides a
surface so that the window can be nailed in from the outside of the home before
the application of siding. Unfortunately, new-construction windows may be of
inferior quality as builders continually try to keep costs low. Replacement
windows have no such "fin". This allows them to be installed with minimal
disruption to the existing trim/siding. They are set into place in the existing
window frame and nails or screws are driven into the window from the inside of
the window jamb.
Installation may be done from the inside by the removal of the inside
trim, or from the outside by the removal of the outside "stops". Outside
installation requires either replacing old stops with new ones, or a custom
metal wrap, but can be useful if the inside trim is too precious to be
disturbed. All windows should be sealed inside and out with a high quality
silicone caulk.
Materials
Replacement windows are available in several materials including wood,
fiberglass, aluminum-clad wood, vinyl-clad wood, vinyl, or recently, a composite
of wood and plastic. Vinyl is a very popular choice as it is the least expensive
and now comes in many pre-molded colors. This also appeals to those seeking
low-maintenance lifestyle, such as condominium owners, senior citizens and
lower- or fixed income families.
Most installations are completed with a custom metal "wrap", which acts as an
added barrier against the elements. PVC-coated aluminum comes in a myriad of
colors and requires no painting. Solid vinyl exterior trim is also an option.
Screens can be full-sized, half-sized or retractable. A variety of materials,
from aluminum to durable vinyl/fiberglass "pet-screens", are available.
Benefits of replacement windows
Replacement windows can increase the resale value of newer homes (post-1970).
Replacement windows are sometimes less expensive to install than actually
replacing the original window. This is primarily due to the compromise in
quality, as replacement windows are rarely equal to the integrity of older wood
windows, which were commonly constructed of old-growth woods. Insulated glazing
is one feature that helps save energy. The distinguishing feature being a second
layer of glass, or a "double-pane." This second pane creates an air pocket,
which is the "insulation" referred to in marketing materials. Another benefit is
the option of adding "low E" plastic film, which cuts energy costs up to 30% by
greatly reducing temperature transference. Other options include triple-glazing
(a third pane of glass), higher quality spacers between the panes, which reduce
the failure rate that allows "fogging" or condensation to form between the
panes, and sealing gases between the panes that have higher insulative qualities
than air, such as argon or krypton gases.
Replacement windows constructed of synthetic materials, such as vinyl, composite
and fiberglass, may be limited in the types of paints they will accept. However,
most synthetic windows are selected by owners who do not plan to repaint their
windows. Aluminum-clad and wood replacement windows may be repainted with any
type of paint.
"Double-hung" windows are the most common traditional window. They have an upper
sash and a lower sash, both of which slide up and down in the window opening.
"Single-hung" windows appear as "double-hung" windows, but their upper sash is
fixed in place and does not slide.
Most "hung" models now feature "tilt-in" sashes for easier cleaning of the
exterior surfaces. "Casement windows" swing out similar to a door and are
typically operated using an interior hand crank.
Sliding windows, or "sliders", are sometimes used in openings that are wider
than they are tall.
Non-operable or "fixed" windows are common in larger openings such as picture
windows. Replacement picture windows can often be custom manufactured to fit
large or irregular openings however at a cost premium.
For restricted budgets, smaller replacement windows can be used in the existing
window opening, with plastic trim strips used to infill the resulting gaps. This
is considered a lower quality repair and most reputable contractors will be
reluctant to perform this type of work, as it is likely to compromise both
architectural and resale values in most neighborhoods.