If you live in an older home and you have the original windows, then you most likely have had thoughts on repairing or replacing them. You may remember the saying “throwing good money after bad”…..well this certainly can apply to your approach to windows and doors.

Whether you are contemplating repairing or replacing your windows, call in experts and make sure you get at least 3 opinions or estimates. Beware of the quick fix, which in most cases just adds to the overall cost in the long run. Typically your first clue that there is a problem is a draft coming around or through your windows and doors. If you contact a specialist in the replacement window and door market, they should be able to tell you upon visual inspection whether or not the old windows are worth saving.

Repairing windows: If your windows are in good condition and operate smoothly, you may be able to upgrade the weatherstripping, caulk the exteriors and if you still have a draft, you can remove interior casings. We suggest expanding foam insulation that will fill all cracks and voids and also create a vapor barrier.

Repairing doors: If your doors are in good condition, you may be able to replace the weatherstripping, or add some if there isn’t any there now. You can also replace the “sweep,” which is an adjustable shoe that fits under the door. The best type has a triple mohair brushed bottom. They are adjustable to your floor and do not get brittle and crack in the cold. Again, you can caulk the exteriors and remove interior trims and foam insulate the cavity between the door frame and the studs in the wall.

Replacing doors and windows: If the consensus is they have to go, again get at least 3 quotes and focus in on quality as well as cost. Another saying which is true: “you get what you pay for.” When you have your quotes, narrow them down to two options. At this point, it is imperative you physically go to the prospective showroom or factory and see what you are getting for the dollar. Pay special attention to the weatherstripping and the overall frame structure, as well as the hardware. The locking system is critical not only to security, but also to how well the window will seal to keep the elements out.

Glass makes up to 85% of the overall window, and is especially important. There are many tinted glass options available, but the best bang for your long-term dollar is to go with glass called “Low-E, Argon gas & super spacer.” This is short for low emissivity, a microscopic metallic oxide spray (almost invisible) that is applied to the glass. This is coupled with the argon gas, an insulating gas injected between the panes and the high density superspacer, the spacer bar that separates the outside glass from the inside. When you combine these three elements you double the insulating factor from regular double picture window glass. Of course you can even go higher with triple glass with Low-E, argon and superspacer. It effectively quadruples the R-Factor (insulating qualities) and in both cases, in layman’s terms, it reflects out the heat in summer and retains the heat in winter.

Installation: As important as getting a high quality window or door, you must also be very aware of the installation method, as well as the people installing them. Make sure they completely remove the entire frame and clean all old insulation back to the rough stud opening. Ask ahead of time about any potential problems that may come up. Most reputable companies will automatically replace any rotted wood under old windows if necessary, but you should ask in the quotation process if they charge extra for this.

If you are cutting or enlarging an opening, make sure you know what the cost will be to re-route electrical if it comes into play, rather than wait for the surprise on installation day. Some companies have their own hourly or salaried employees (the best way to go), but most have contractors or as it is called in the window business, “piece work” installations, meaning the more they put in on any given day, the more they make. There are certainly many excellent contractors available, but the hourly paid installers are part of the factory direct package, meaning less incentive to rush the job, as well as only one call to make should any issues arise. Lastly, most companies will furnish you with a tip sheet as to what to expect and what your obligations are in regards to the installation day. It seems like a lot to digest but the less left to chance, the better your experience will be, and you can soon enjoy the comfort and security of your purchase.

This article was provided by Western Windows. Western Windows in Calgary, Alberta can be reached at 403-291-3035, or visit us online www.westernwindows.com .