Tips for DIY Window Replacement Projects
Windows give us a view of the outside world while bringing the beauty of sunlight into our home. Windows, however, are much more than just a view. In fact, they help protect us from inclement weather that Mother Nature often deems appropriate, such as rain, sleet, snow, hail, and harsh winter and summer temperatures. Because they work so hard for us, we have to take the time to recognize the signs of a needed DIY window replacement. If we protect our windows, they, in turn, will continue to protect us.
When the inevitable time comes that your windows need replacing, the first thing you need to do is decide whether to purchase a wood or vinyl DIY window replacement. Window replacements can usually be mixed and matched to fit the current look of your home, and best of all, many current products are expected to last up to 20 years and often come with a warranty.
When it comes to DIY window replacement installation, it is pertinent that special attention be paid to any small cracks around the window that may be present. If they are there, energy costs may be higher as a result. The reason is that outside air will be able to enter the house through these cracks, making the heating or air conditioning unit work harder to maintain the temperature in the house. To prevent this from happening, homeowners should carefully inspect each DIY window replacement. The best way to remedy a crack is through the use of caulking and weather stripping, which will help eliminate the problem.
The best place to find all of your weather protection products is through the local home improvement store where you purchased the replacement window. If you don’t feel comfortable doing a DIY window replacement project, there are contractors in every area who have experience with day-to-day installation and can often help you complete your project with minimal inconvenience to you. At a minimum, you can hire a contractor or window installation professional who can help you supervise your work. Your rate may be considerably less if they are simply on site and supervising someone else’s work, but this is something that each individual DIY window replacement scenario will determine.
When selecting a professional, whether for installation or supervision, make sure they have experience replacing windows and have successfully completed similar projects. Also, try to hire someone who has been in business for a number of years and has a positive reputation with the local Better Business Bureau. Even with a DIY window replacement project, it never hurts to have professional supervision.