Window Replacement 101: What Homeowners Need to Know

Are you a homeowner looking to upgrade your home with new windows? There are a wide variety of reasons why you may be looking for a window replacement, all of which would show significant improvement in the aesthetic appeal and performance of your home. Over time, your window can experience natural wear and tear that can affect a wide variety of factors, including a decline in energy efficiency, your home’s general comfort, and kerb appeal. Whether you’re experiencing a rise in your energy bills, cold draughts, or simply noticing the passage of time in your windows, then perhaps it is time to consider a window replacement.

At Jewel Windows, we have been providing high quality home improvement solutions for many years, which is why we understand the importance of finding the right window replacement for your home. This guide will explore the signs that it may be time for a home window replacement, general cost and budgets for a window replacement, the styles and materials available, and the value of ensuring you have invested in high quality installation services.

Why Replace Your Windows?

There are a number of reasons why you may be looking into replacing your windows, from windows that are showing the signs of ageing or damage, energy bills are on the incline, plans to sell your home in the near future, or a wish to improve the appearance of your windows. Here are a few benefits of window replacement:

Upgraded Energy Efficiency

Particularly if upgraded to double or triple glazing, new windows will provide your home with improved insulation, reducing heat loss in winter months and increasing heat in the summer months. This can result in lower annual bills and a more comfortable living space throughout the year.

Improved Home Value

Making the switch to modern window options can have a significant impact on increasing your home’s kerb appeal, therefore improving its market value. Even if moving out isn’t a vision for your home currently, making the change now can have a positive effect on the attractiveness of your property to potential buyers in the future.

Noise Reduction

Especially for homeowners who live in a noisier neighbourhood, replacing your window panes with double- or triple glazed ones can have a significant impact on reducing noise levels entering your home and creating a more peaceful and comfortable living environment.

Enhanced Security

In comparison to older window designs, new windows often come with multipoint locking mechanisms and frames that contain more durable materials, offering all-around protection for your peace of mind.

Aesthetic Appeal

Replacing old or worn windows with new, modern designs can have an unexpected influence on the overall appearance of your home, especially if your windows haven’t had a fresh look for a while. Windows are like the eyes of your home, which is why a home window replacement can have a remarkable effect on your home’s kerb appeal and general first impressions.

Assessing the Condition of Existing Windows

Evaluating the state of your current windows is crucial before making any decisions on your window replacement. Windows typically have a lifespan of around 15-20 years, which is why beyond this, a home may start to experience a decline in performance. There are a few key indicators that a window replacement might be worth considering.

• Visible Damage - for example, cracked or broken glass panes, or rotting frames.
• Operational Issues - such as opening or closing, could indicate that there is faulty hardware or a warped frame.
• Condensation - Could suggest that there are gaps in the seals, resulting in reduced insulation.
• Increased Energy Bills - Poor insulation can cause draughts, which can lead to higher heating costs.
• Excessive Noise - More external noise can be a result of insufficient soundproofing.

If your home or windows are experiencing any of these signs, you would benefit from a window replacement.

How Much Does a Window Replacement Cost?

The cost of a window replacement can depend on a variety of factors. This includes: the type of materials, window style, the glazing type, and installation. It is essential to acquire multiple quotes from reputable installers and to ask about additional costs to ensure that you are getting the best value for money and the best fit for your home.

Choosing the Right Style and Materials

Selecting the right window style and material can depend on your home’s aesthetic, budget, and desired functionality.

uPVC - this material is a popular choice for UK homeowners due to a combination of its affordability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance properties. Ideal for modern builds.

Aluminium - known for its sleek design and durability, aluminium windows make an eye-catching addition to a home without forfeiting performance. Despite occasionally being a pricier option, its all-round quality and demonstrable improvements to a home’s security, thermal efficiency, and noise reduction make it a wise choice for homeowners. Would be a perfect fit for properties with a contemporary look.

Timber - offering a traditional take on window design, timber windows are a match made in heaven for period properties or for homeowners seeking to add a classic charm to their home. Though they occasionally require more maintenance, when provided by suppliers who guarantee high quality, these add enhanced thermal efficiency, security, and noise reduction compared to an older alternative.

Casement Windows - These are the most popular window options for UK homeowners due to their ease of use and simplistic design. They operate on a side hinge that opens outward.

Sash Windows - Often found in older properties for their vintage design, sash windows are characterised by their vertical sliding panels, which offer enhanced ventilation into a home.

Tilt & Turn Windows - these offer a modern alternative to many other windows, with a versatile design that allows you to tilt inward for ventilation or swing open for cleaning.

Ensuring Proper Installation

Researching your options for window replacement installers is an essential part of the process. At Jewel Windows, we have specialised in window replacement services in and around Surrey for decades. As a FENSA accredited installer of double glazing and windows, we offer a ten-year guarantee on all installations. Our mission is not only to provide high quality products and services, but also to give our customers complete peace of mind throughout their window installation and beyond.

Jewel Windows are Here to Help

Replacing your windows, while a significant investment, will have life-altering benefits to enhance your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. By assessing the condition of your existing windows, having an understanding of the costs involved, selecting the right window style and materials, and ensuring your windows will be installed to the highest standards, you will be able to make confident and informed decisions that will provide long-term advantages to your home. For more information or advice, contact a member of our friendly and experienced team via our contact form or over the phone. If you are ready to take the next step towards securing the perfect window, start an online quote today.