Advice on When It’s Time to Replace Windows

By Brad Flannigan

Warm weather really calls to attention the many things that need to be done to keep the exterior of the home in good condition. Homeowners often find that when they tackle that spring cleaning chore of window washing, they run into problems. Mainly, they can’t open the window properly, find that the “fogging” can’t be removed by cleaners, and discover the wood frames are showing signs of rot.

Callen offers other signs that it’s time to consider window replacement.

• Sticking windows: Difficulty opening and closing or windows are painted or nailed shut and impossible to open. This is the most obvious sign you need a window replacement.
• Windows that need to be propped open: The balance is the mechanism that keeps the window up when you open it. When the balance fails, the window no longer remains up when opened and can slam shut, posing a serious safety hazard.
• Condensation/Fogging: This is a sign that water vapor or even rain or ice is able to penetrate the seal. When you see damp spots by the seal after a storm, this is a sign the window is losing its ability to be a barrier between the external elements and your home.
• Noise: Hearing the sounds of traffic, noisy neighbors, or even the sounds of nature.
• Drafts: You should never feel or notice cold air seeping in. Your cooling and heating systems will have to work harder to compensate for infiltration, resulting in higher energy bills.
• Warping: Wood windows can warp as a result of exposure to moisture of the elements. Poor seals can lead to flooding in rain events, diminished durability, and even window failure.
• Hardware: Rusty, too tight, or too loose.
• Single-Pane Windows: Old single-pane windows are not constructed to keep out drafts and damaging UV rays.
• Appearance: Chipping, deterioration, water stains, or an outdated style that doesn’t blend well with the rest of the house.

“Choosing replacement windows is an important decision because you want your new windows to not only save money and keep your home free of drafts, but also you want them to be easy to clean and operate, be virtually maintenance free, durable, and enhance the home’s beauty and character,” said Brad Flannigan, exterior product specialist for Callen.

Installation options include both full frame replacement and insert replacement. With a full frame installation, the entire window, sashes, frame, stops, and interior casing are removed down to the framing studs. Full frame replacement allows for a complete restoration of the opening and addresses any problems that may be occurring behind the casing.

An insert installation starts with the sashes and stops of the existing window being removed, while the interior casings and frame of the existing window stay and the new window is installed into the frame of the existing window.

“When choosing a replacement window, visiting a Design Center is very helpful because you can get an idea of the professionalism of the staff and the scope of options available – not just what you may view in a sample book, but in actually seeing how it looks. I have found that some homeowners want a certain style of window, but after visiting our Design Center and seeing all the options, often ask if they can change out a casement window for an awning, or a double-hung for a glider. The answer is yes – the possibilities are numerous,” Brad said.

Callen’s exterior product specialists can help you determine the best option for your window replacement. Call Callen, the leading remodeling company in Brookfield, to schedule an in-home consultation.