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Replacement Windows: The Ultimate Guide

Replacement Windows: The Ultimate Guide

When it comes to home improvement, replacement windows may not seem as glamorous or exciting as a new kitchen or bathroom. But believe it or not, upgrading your windows can have a profoundly positive effect on your home, personal comfort, and energy bill. Ready to dive in and learn all about it?

Chances are you’ve never seriously considered windows in your home unless they’re broken, cracked, or significantly failing to keep the chill out. Out of all the improvement projects, replacement windows isn’t always the sexiest but is highly crucial for both aesthetics and functionality in a home. Welcome to one of the most informative, straightforward and reliable sources of information about replacement windows. Whether you’re new to the concept or have been thinking about making the change, this article will be of great value to you.

Replacing older, inefficient windows is the fastest, easiest and most cost-effective ways to make a home more comfortable while lowering utility bills. Thanks to advances in glazing technologies, a professionally installed replacement window project is an especially smart choice. In this post, we’ll explore the top energy-efficient window options and benefits of hiring seasoned installation pros to handle the job from start to finish.

When Do You Need Replacement Windows?

Let’s begin by understanding when you might need replacement windows. Windows last for about 15-30 years. Beyond this point, they start to show signs of wear and tear. Here are some indicators that your windows might need replacement:

  • Difficulty in opening, closing, or locking the window

  • Noticeable drafts even when the windows are closed

  • Condensation or fogging appears on or between the glass panes

  • The window frame is soft to the touch, indicating rot and decay.

However, it’s not all about functionality. Sometimes, you might just want to replace old windows because they no longer fit your home’s aesthetic or aren’t as energy efficient as newer models. In such cases, a facelift is all they need.

Why You Might Need Replacement Windows

So, let’s set the stage and talk about why you might need replacement windows. Imagine you’re cuddled up on the sofa, a cup of hot coffee in hand, and you can feel an arctic breeze coming from your timeless, decades-old windows. Well, as charming as these antique windows might be, that’s a sure sign they need to be replaced.

Energy Inefficiency
Old windows often allow drafts and heat loss, which result in a massive rise in energy bills. Got a mystery increase in your latest electric bill? If your energy usage suddenly spiked despite cooler weather, it may be time to upgrade to high-performance replacement windows. New energy-efficient models help lower bills by sealing air leaks and retaining conditioned air indoors.

Visual Demise
Let’s not even talk about windows that are no longer visually appealing. Yes, character and history are great, but peeling paint and rotten wood frames? Not so much. If they detract from your otherwise beautiful home, it’s time for a replacement. Aging windows can detract from curb appeal beyond repair. Rather than tolerating windows dragging down an otherwise lovely home, upgrade to low-maintenance replacement styles. 

Age and Wear
Older windows, especially wooden ones, will start to deteriorate over time due to the effects of weather, sunlight exposure, temperature changes and more. The seal fails, moving parts like locks and sashes get stuck, and insulation performance decreases significantly. Replacing with energy-efficient models ends constant repairs, protects interior environments from drafts, and retains home value.

High Utility Bills
Struggling with higher than expected heating/cooling costs despite attempts to minimize usage? Old leaky windows are probably to blame for losing more conditioned air than necessary. Modernizing with efficient ENERGY STAR models such as vinyl substantially cuts warmth loss, lowering thermostat setpoints and monthly bills too.

Broken Glass
Cracked or broken window panes from age, weather damage or accidents compromise both insulation and security until repaired. High-performance fiberglass or vinyl models improve livability with solid insulation allowing uniform temperatures room to room. 

Warping and Binding Issues
Over many years, wooden frames can start to twist, warp or bind making windows difficult to operate smoothly. Friction and drafts increase. This repetitive movement causes frames to buckle or bind making sashes challenging to painlessly open and close. Hassle-free vinyl replacements maintain crisp operation indefinitely.

Outdated Style
Does dated window design diminish an otherwise stylish home exterior? Replacing with architectural styles fine-tuned to enhance curb appeal boosts beauty and value. Tasteful updates harmoniously blend activity and lifestyle inside while enticing discerning buyers outside with impeccable first impressions.

Safety and Security Concerns
Decades of exposure weakens conventional window construction, creating unseen avenues for unlawful entry. However, modern high-performance dual-pane glass reinforced with high-density vinyl strengthens barriers protecting what matters most. Homeowners gain the comfort of recognizing families remain undisrupted from intrusions thanks to products engineered with lifetime security as a priority.

Code and Regulation Changes
Some jurisdictions require minimum standards for energy efficiency to be met. Old single pane windows fail to cut it anymore.Cut costs and stay compliant by upgrading to handsome replacements boasting superior insulation abilities for the lifetime of ownership. 

Window Improvements Tie into Other Projects
Comprehensive home renovations offer unique opportunities to transform exterior living spaces all at once. Updating siding, doors, additions and more provides simple access for also swapping outdated windows in one coordinated project. This simplifies tasks while reducing disruptions versus piecemeal work. Homeowners maximize curb appeal, comfort and value with designs thoughtfully chosen to complement each other aesthetically and functionally for years to come.

Poor Functionality
Old windows compromised by time and weather no longer slip smoothly open and closed, inviting fresh air inside with ease. Battling stuck panes just to exchange stale indoor conditions becomes a chore neglecting more enjoyable activities. Who looks forward to such unnecessary exertion each sunny morning or evening? Replacing with advanced ventilation systems tailored for lifetime fluidity at the touch liberates homeowners to leisurely appreciate views in comfort once more. Conditioned air regulation becomes effortless, preserving interior peace that enhances quality living.

Types of Replacement Windows

Now that we’ve covered why it might be time for a window facelift, let’s chat about different types of replacement windows. It’s kind of like online dating for windows. You’ve got a lot of options out there, but it’s all about finding the perfect match for you and your home.

Vinyl Windows

Like your favorite record, vinyl is a classic. These windows are known for their superior insulation, affordability, and low maintenance. With inherently low conductivity, vinyl frames provide outstanding insulation. Durable vinyl comes in various colors to complement any style. They’re the comfy sweatpants of the window world – reliable, comforting, and they just make sense.

Composite Windows

These are like the hybrid car of replacement windows – made from a blend of materials, typically wood and plastic. They offer excellent durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.

Wood Windows

Ah, wood windows – the OG of the home world. They come with a warm, authentic appearance and good insulation properties. However, be ready for the occasional spa session; these beauties need some pampering (read: maintenance) to keep looking their best.

Aluminum Windows

Aluminum windows are preferred for their slim profiles and contemporary aesthetic, but they have poorer insulation properties. 

Fiberglass Windows

Lastly, fiberglass windows are quite strong, with the capacity to withstand extreme temperature swings. They’re low maintenance like vinyl and can be painted like wood. The dense composite material of fiberglass gives it rigidity yet insulating capacity comparable to vinyl. It holds up well in all climates.

Low-E Glass

This high-tech glazing option applies a microscopically thin, virtually clear metallic coating to trap heat within multi-pane units. Any window gains with Low-E.

Gas-Filled Windows

Filling the narrow cavity between panes with inert gases like argon enhances insulation far better than just single or double pane alone. Expect huge energy savings.

Triple-Pane Glass

For ultimate efficiency, windows with three panes sandwiching two Low-E coatings in a gas-filled design significantly outperform double paned options especially in harsh zones.

How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows

You’re surely thinking now, “How on earth do I make the right choice?” Just like picking the perfect pizza toppings, it’s all about personal preference, and let’s not forget the budget.

Consider Your Home’s Style

You wouldn’t wear flip flops to a formal event, would you? Well, choosing windows is similar. Consider the architectural style of your home. Match your new windows to its character for a cohesive look.

Take Climate into Account

Living in the tropics or battling bitter winters? Your local climate plays a crucial role in your decision. You’re not going to want the same windows in Alaska as you would in Florida.

Don’t Forget Energy Efficiency

We all love a good deal. If we can get those energy bills down while we’re at it, that’s just the cherry on top. Look for ENERGY STAR® labels on your replacement windows. Windows with low-E glass coatings, gas fills between panes, thermally improved frames will lower energy bills the most.

Installation Type

Will you need new frames/jambs or just replacement sashes that insert into existing frames?

Budget

Get quotes from 3 reputable companies to compare total costs factoring materials and installation labor. We will beat Hoe Depot, Lowe’s and Andersen Renewal – Guaranteed.

Style

Coordinate replacement windows to match your home’s architecture such as traditional double-hungs or contemporary sliders.

Warranty

Replacement window warranties typically range 10-25 years. Make sure installation is covered too. We warranty material and installation. 

Once you’ve weighed these key factors, we recommend getting on-site measurements and quotes from licensed contractors before making your final window selections. Proper professional installation is key to enjoying your investment for many years.

How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows Installer

Remember, folks, a replacement window is only as good as its installation. Think about it, you wouldn’t ask your dentist to fix your car. When it comes to window installation, leave it to the pros. Sure, DIY has its place (hello, funky coffee table), but installing windows properly is fundamental to their performance.

Windows are the eyes of a home. Through them, we see the world, and they help frame how we perceive our surroundings.

Just remember, embarking on a journey to find the perfect replacement windows might seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. This is your chance to give your home some fresh style, boost energy efficiency, and maybe even save some cash. So, pull up your sleeves, don on your decision-making cap, and get ready to dive into the window wonderland.

Here are some tips for choosing the right professional window replacement installer:

  • Get referrals. Ask family/friends for referrals of installers they trusted for quality work. Positive word-of-mouth is huge.

  • Check reviews. Browse online reviews on sites like Google Business Profile, Yelp or check the installer’s social pages to see what past clients say.

  • Verify certifications. Look for installers certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label assures code compliance on windows for proper training credentials. The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) certifies that the product meets rigorous performance standard. ardinal glass LoĒ³-366 provides the highest level of year around comfort and energy savings.

  • Ensure license and insurance. Check that the installer holds the proper state contractor’s license and carries liability insurance in case of accidents.

  • Request quotes from 3-5 installers. Comparing multiple estimates side-by-side lets you gauge reasonable pricing for materials, labor and timelines.

  • Consider experience level. Choosing an installer solely focused on windows rather than a general contractor means expertise specific to your project.

  • Check for manufacturer affiliations. Partnering installers ensure warranty validity and may offer better technical support if issues arise.

  • Ask about timelines and communication. Reputable installers provide time and budget expectations up front with ongoing order status updates.

  • Inquire about post-installation service. Quality installers offer maintenance tips and warranty service appointments to ensure your windows keep performing.

  • Ask for warranty details. We stand behind our materials and workmanship with a limited lifetime warranty.

Doing thorough research on an installer lays the foundation for a smooth, professionally executed window replacement project that delivers beautiful, energy efficient results for many years ahead.

 

How Much Should You Spend On Replacement Windows

The amount you spend will vary depending on window size, material choice, glass features and more. But as general rules of thumb:

  • Best replacement windows for the money: Stick to brands selling Energy Star qualified vinyl windows, which provide great value and performance for $350-$500 per window installed.

  • Best windows for home renovation: Plan to spend around $350-$500 per installed window to get a noticeable improvement in insulation, noise reduction and curb appeal.

  • Labor cost to install vinyl windows: Expect to pay approximately $100-150 per window on average for professional installation by a reputable company. Multiple window jobs may lower this rate.

Is It Cheaper To Replace All Windows At Once

Yes, replacing windows as a full home project typically brings savings compared to single window replacements over time. Some benefits to replacing all windows in one job include:

  • Labor cost to install vinyl windows: Replacing in batches allows installers to work efficiently, saving approximately 10-20% compared to piecemeal replacements.

  • Consistency: Choosing the same window type and configurations prevents a mix of styles down the line that can look out of place.

  • Warranty coverage: Manufacturers often offer better warranty terms for whole home jobs vs individual windows.

Who Has The Best Prices On Windows

While lowest initial cost is enticing, quality and longevity are most important for a product you’ll rely on daily. Some price leaders for premium vinyl windows include Milgard, Pella and Builder’s Choice brands typically priced higher:

  • Average cost to replace windows in a 3 bed house: Around $18,000 – $30,000 installed, depending on specific windows, options and regional installation pricing. Getting multiple quotes is wise.
  • Andersen & Pella cost to replace windows in a 3 bed house average: $30,000 – $40,000
  • Dede Windows cost to replace windows in a 3 bed house: Around $15,000  installed, depending on specific windows, options

How Do I Choose A Good Window Company

Look for a company with great reviews and a stellar warranty:

  • Best replacement window brands: Look for a dealer offering higher performing energy efficient options from brands like Milgard, Window World or Pella.

  • Reputation: Check reviews on Google, BBB and social ratings to verify proven customer satisfaction.

  • Warranty: Life assurance coverage of materials, installation workmanship and functional components provide longterm protection.

  • Experience: At least 10+ years in the industry installing replacement windows professionally.

  • We are a direct manufacturer to consumers = cheapest & best pricing

  • We are manufacture the windows

  • Other companies (Andersen & Pella) mostly use dealers & subcontractors which increases the cost substantially 

  • Dede Windows: Price, short lead time = faster & cheaper installation 

Who Are The Best Replacement Window Companies

Industry leaders known best for professional installations, strong warranties and fair pricing include:

  • Window World
  • Pella – expensive
  • Renewal by Andersen – very expenicie
  • Marvin Windows and Doors
  • Milgard Windows & Doors
  • Best place to get windows: Schedule quotes with multiple top local dealerships highly rated on major review sites. Comparing ensures the best package for your project needs.
  • We are a direct manufacturer to consumers = cheaspet & best pricing

  • We are manufacture the windows

  • Other companies (Andersen & Pella) mostly use dealers & subcontractors which increases the cost substantially 

  • Dede USP: Price, short lead time = faster installation 

  • Same rating to all the above: Pella, etc

Benefits of Custom Windows

Here are some key benefits of investing in custom replacement windows for your home:

Unique Window Styles

Custom windows allow for beautifully distinctive styling tailored precisely to your home’s architecture. From shaped tops to special mullion configurations, you get exactly what fits perfectly.

Top-Notch Materials

By choosing premium materials like solid wood, fiberglass or composites during the design phase, custom windows provide unequaled longevity, strength and energy performance your home deserves.

Superior Quality

Each detail of custom windows receives careful handcrafting, precise fitting and quality assurance testing that mass-produced stock units lack. They become true works of craftsmanship.

Functionality Upgrades

Special customization opens up possibilities like bigger views, operable venting, remote motorization controls or egress wells for safety and convenience.

Enhanced Value

Replacing with custom windows improves resale appeal exponentially by highlighting architectural uniqueness and confidence in long-term investment returns.

Custom Fit Comfort

From perfect sizing adjustments to seamless installation within odd-shaped window openings, custom windows create comfort and curb appeal unparalleled by off-the-rack alternatives.

Peace of Mind

Rigorously tested and installed under meticulous standards, custom ensures utmost efficiency, reliability and structural integrity to delight homeowners maintenance-free for decades.

Let’s discuss your home’s needs and budget to explore how elegantly custom replacement windows might upgrade your living spaces through exceptional style, performance and value. Their distinctive qualities create an everlasting impression for years to come.

Why Vinyl Windows Are The Best Replacement Windows

Here are some key reasons why vinyl is often considered the best material choice for replacement windows:

Durability

Vinyl stands up incredibly well to all weather conditions without rotting, cracking or peeling like wood can over time. It won’t ever need to be painted either.

One of the defining advantages of vinyl windows is their extraordinary durability able withstand all types of weather without issue. Vinyl is produced from a rigid PVC resin composite that won’t ever crack, rot, split, warp or peel like wood windows tend to over 15-20 years or more. Its density provides structural integrity equivalent to other materials. Vinyl also stands up well against Mother Nature’s fury – it won’t corrode, rust or pit from UV rays, saltwater exposure, hailstorms or high winds like competing products can. This equates to no maintenance painting or sealing every few years either. With sturdy construction from premium vinyl compounds and quality manufacturing, today’s replacement windows are built to last the lifespan of a home with minimal deterioration.

Energy Efficiency

Vinyl’s highly insulated cellular construction makes it naturally energy efficient to help lower year-round home cooling and heating bills significantly. Not only is vinyl an ultra-durable building material, but it also excels at energy efficiency through its inherent insulating properties. Thanks to billions of tiny air pockets trapped within the vinyl matrix, it naturally restricts conductive heat transfer better than any other window choice. In fact, independent lab tests prove properly installed vinyl replacement windows can reduce unwanted heat gain in summer by up to 40% while lowering winter heat loss as much as 25-50%. This translates directly to large monthly savings on home cooling and heating utility bills year-round – savings that keep piling up longer than the initial investment. Vinyl frames also accept double or triple pane insulated glass units better than other alternatives for boosted R-values up to 6-10 times greater insulation than single pane windows

Low Maintenance

One of the standout perks of vinyl replacement windows is their extremely low maintenance needs once professionally installed. Unlike wood alternatives that require intermittent refinishing, vinyl merely needs an occasional gentle cleaning with mild soap and water. No painting, sanding or application of harsh chemical strippers ever. This time-saving perk allows homeowners to effortlessly retain pristine appearance indoors and out. Even more impressive is vinyl’s unbeaten resistance to staining, scratching or other cosmetic deterioration over time to continue looking new for decades. With no cyclic upkeep costs, vinyl windows provide years of worry-free, fuss-free enjoyment at an unequaled value. With its dense, impervious surface, vinyl windows simply need an occasional rinse with soap and water. No sanding or sealing like other materials require.

Weathertight Protection

Vinyl forms an extremely durable and resilient barrier between the indoors and outdoors. Its dense composite construction forms an air and water tight seal around each window frame that safeguards interior living spaces. Homeowners appreciate how vinyl seamlessly keeps exterior noise, pollen, pollutants and other allergens from penetrating inside, while also preventing warm or cool air from escaping through unwanted drafts or leaks. This weathertight protection ensures maximum comfort is maintained within the home.

Enhanced House Value

Custom vinyl replacement windows take a home’s curb appeal and resale value to the next level. Their handcrafted stylings perfectly accent any architectural style with sleek yet classic aesthetics. Discerning buyers notice the attention to detail and commitment to energy efficiency with low-E glass and thermally-improved frames. Moreover, custom vinyl carries minimal future costs thanks to life-long impervious durability never needing paint or repair. This confidence in decades of prudent maintenance-free performance empowers homeowners with assurances that maximizing their real estate investment. Custom vinyl windows shine on move-out day due to unmatched returns.

Customization Through Elegant Styles & Finishes

Whereas other common window materials may offer a narrower palette, vinyl provides an incredibly diverse array of stylish design options. From traditional single and double hung sash configurations to contemporary casements in seemingly limitless artful shapes – vinyl allows customization to complement any architectural period or aesthetic preference. Choose from basic easy-clean smooth exteriors or simulate woodgrains inside and out in rich variegated tones of colonial white, mahogany, taupe or bronze. Specialty patterns mimic stone, brick or even wicker textures too. With such variety, vinyl ensures the perfect personalized fit for brightening up both historic homes and modern abodes alike.

Cost Effectiveness Yields Returns on Investment

When considering the material and installation costs required for different window types along with their competitive lifecycle expenses, vinyl provides remarkable long term savings for homeowners. Though initial pricing may match or moderately beat some other solutions, vinyl multiplies this value through its non-corrosive endurance saving future replacement and repair fees. Energy conservation returns also compound annually. Pairing this with leading non-prorated lifetime limited warranties backing the product and labor provides years of costs covered should any rare issues arise. Not a single other material provides such comprehensive protection or eliminates the need to budget ongoing refreshes every few years. Over a typical 25+ year vinyl window lifespan, the cost effectiveness advantage compounds remarkably.

Whether considering aesthetics, upkeep requirements, energy conservation benefits, or overall affordability – vinyl simply surpasses all other replacement window options thanks to its intrinsic strength, imperviousness to the elements, customizable styles, and assured long service life. With proper sourcing from accredited window manufacturers, today’s PVC composite windows represent the pinnacle of long lasting value, comfort, and curb appeal enhancing improvements. Their enduring quality has cemented vinyl as the definitive material choice of homeowners seeking excellent returns on renovation investments for decades to come.

What our client says

Discover the Power of Real Testimonials
Scott A.
Scott A.
It's like a typical movie, I was playing catch with my son and one thing lead to another and I threw the baseball through one of our windows. It was funny in the moment but I was worried it'd be an expensive replacement. Luckily I found this new company to do it for cheap, and fast! It was an easy process and they took care of it right away as if the accident never happened.
Samantha Sims
Samantha Sims
I just want to say thank you to everyone at Dede Windows and Doors for their help. We had a bad break in and needed a new window put in. They came out as quickly as possible and handled everything for us. Not only where they fast but they did the work for a very affordable price. I'm so grateful to them for all they did. This is definitely the best company out there for any kind of window or door replacement you need. They're the best!
Krista Gonzalez
Krista Gonzalez
Dede Windows did a replacement of all the windows around my house. It was a big project and they had to do a lot of precise measuring. I can't praise their work enough. They really impressed me from start to finish. I also thought their prices were great. We got a few quotes but these guys were by far the most affordable. I would say that I look forward to working with them again but I know their work will last me for years to come.
George King
George King
I needed to have my sliding glass door replaced. I hired Dede to take care of it for me and I'm really glad I did. They are such a wonderful team and were helpful in every possible way. I thought their prices were excellent and they took care of the replacement extremely quickly. I also thought it was great that they cleaned up after themselves and left my home exactly the way they came to it. I'm so happy with these guys. I would give them more stars if I could.
Elvira Coock
Elvira Coock
If you need a window replacement, you have to go with these guys. I used the and it was an excellent experience. The entire team was hardworking, kind, and very fast. The window installation they did for me was handled quickly and they did beautiful work. I don't have a single complaint. I'm so glad that this si the company I chose to work with. They deserve way more than 5 stars.
Delger Bayaraa
Delger Bayaraa
“Had a wonderful experience with Dede Windows and Doors. We needed new windows for our recently bought house. I had been shopping around for windows and sliding doors for quite some time and could not find the one that met our needs, choices and budget. I am truly glad finding Dede Windows and Doors. They visited our place and took the measurements with their installer guys and the sales rep was very knowledgeable about te products and explained all the best qualities and advantages of their vinyl window lines. Read more on our Yelp Page!

Our mission

Our mission is to provide our customers with high-quality, energy-efficient replacement windows that not only enhance the beauty of their homes but also help save on energy bills. We believe that every homeowner deserves the best when it comes to replacement windows, which is why we offer a wide variety of styles, colors, and designs to choose from.

At Dede Windows and More, we take pride in our commitment to providing exceptional installation services. Our team of experts has years of experience and will work closely with you to ensure that your new windows are installed to your satisfaction. We guarantee that our installation services will be hassle-free and completed in a timely manner.

Our vinyl windows are manufactured with the latest technology to ensure that they are energy efficient and long-lasting. They are also designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and require minimal maintenance, making them a practical and cost-effective choice for homeowners.

Why choose us?

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The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label assures code compliance on windows and doors.
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The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) certifies that the product meets rigorous performance standard.
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Cardinal glass LoĒ³-366 provides the highest level of year around comfort and energy savings.
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We stand behind our materials and workmanship with a limited lifetime warranty.