Windows to your home are important; they offer sunlight and protection with a view among other things. With all the different components of a window such as frames, glass, insulation, and so on, there comes a time where replacing, repairing, or upgrading the windows becomes necessary. With that in mind, we at Dan’s Enterprises would like to discuss the different things you should know about windows.
 

Window Replacement VS Repair

When it comes to window repair, there are a few things that can be done to avoid replacing the entire window. Cracked or broken frames can be easily replaced and weather stripping installed to mend a draft. Additionally, if the window’s locks or other hardware is faulty, the hardware can be replaced, leaving the window intact. Replacing windows, on the other hand, should definitely be considered if you notice that glass is broken, fogging up or of the window sticks when opening or closing or refuses to stay up all together. Along with windows that have become damaged or deteriorated with time, windows that are older can be upgraded as well to help cut energy costs.
 

Full Frame Window Replacement

In the event the window needs replacing, there are a few basic choices you have when it comes to selecting the right frame; each having their own pros and cons.
Aluminum or metal: A generic window frame that is light and requires little maintenance, however, these windows will conduct intense heat which influences the insulation properties. If you chose this option, ensure the windows include an insulating plastic strip between the interior and exterior of the window’s sash; otherwise known as a thermal break. This feature is designed to offset heat from metal.
Composite: This frame constructed from composite wood products, similar to particleboard and strand lumber. Composite is ideal as it is stable and resists moisture and decay, more so than regular wood.
Fiberglass: Quality fiberglass offers best available insulation capacity because some are crafted with air pockets that can be insulated.
Wood: They expand and contract with changing weather conditions but are solid and insulate well. Wood frames also require more maintenance as they periodically need to refinished or painted.
Vinyl: Being ultra-resistant to sunlight and the elements, vinyl windows are comprised of PVC and coated with UV light stabilizers for additional protection. Vinyl window frames have hollow cavities that can be filled with insulation, much like fiberglass.
Glass: Modernly speaking, glass comes in a wide range of options that include insulation to improve energy efficiency or the overall design of your home. Other options include, Gas Fills, Heat-Absorbing Tints, Insulation, Low-Emissivity Coatings, Spectrally Selective Coating, Reflective Coating, and so on.
 

How to Measure for Replacement Windows

Below you will find the guidelines on how to measure for new windows. You will need to know the width, height, and depth of your window.
Depth: Measuring for depth does not include any existing hardware and you want to ensure that there is at least 3 ¼” between the inside window trim and the outside blind stop strip.
Height: Start by measuring from the high point of your window sill to the top of the window opening. Repeat the measuring 3 times; once at the left side, then the center, and finally at the right side. After you have all the measurements, use the smallest of these three.
Width: Like measuring for the height, measure between the window jambs from the surface at the top, middle and bottom of the window opening; using the smallest measurement to order your window.
 

Glass & Mirror Products & Services in Canton, Taylor, Garden City, Farmington Hills, Ypsilanti & Wayne County, Michigan

If you are not certain about this project or need a professional for installation, call the experts of Dan’s Enterprises at (734) 595-3232 and let our professionals assist you.