In this article, you will learn:
1. How window replacements can improve your home
2. 10 reasons to avoid DIY window replacement projects
3. The benefits of professional window replacement services
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Window replacements are known to solve a variety of important problems for modern homeowners.
From repairing deterioration and temperature issues to increasing energy efficiency and resale value – getting your windows replaced can dramatically improve the comfort and quality of your home.
With an assortment of colours, materials and styles to choose from, there are customizable options to suit just about every aesthetic to spice up your property’s curb appeal!
However, these upfront investments can often influence homeowners to consider DIY projects in hopes of reducing their overall renovation expenses.
With a tight budget, it’s no surprise that labor costs can be off-putting!
While the prospect of saving money may be appealing at first, many people forget to consider the structural and financial risks that an improper installation process can cause.
At Stouffville Glass, we like to help our clients get the most out of their homes.
The following article will help you better understand the 10 reasons to avoid DIY window replacement projects and the benefits of hiring professionals to deliver the quality of service you deserve.
How Can Window Replacements Improve Your Home?
Our windows play a very important role in protecting us from the elements, regulating internal temperatures, and keeping out the draft.
While older, single-pane windows are often the source of up to 70% of your home’s heat loss, replacing your windows with energy-efficient upgrades can do a great deal for your home’s energy expenses and overall property value.
Today, ENERGY STAR® rated windows have become the standard.
With cutting-edge technology and energy-efficient frames, modern window replacements can improve your home’s ability to retain heat during the harsh Canadian winters, and reduce solar heat gain during the summer.
In addition, replacing your windows can provide a return on investment of up to 73.4% for when you are ready to sell!
Unfortunately, it is important to note that the replacement and installation process can be a bit complicated without a trained professional.
As a full window replacement can often require work to a variety of components, the following section will outline the 10 potential risks involved with DIY window replacement projects.
10 Reasons to Avoid DIY Window Replacement Projects:
Although the “do it yourself” (DIY) approach has become popular within today’s digital age, not all problems can be solved with YouTube tutorials.
When it comes to replacing your home windows, there are a variety of reasons to leave it to seasoned professionals:
1. The Job is Dangerous:
With the risk of broken glass and falling from ladders, it is easy to overlook health and safety requirements when you are trying to learn a new skill.
As this creates a safety concern for you and your family, it is much safer to leave dangerous tasks in the hands of trained professionals.
2. Missing the Underlying Issues:
Unfortunately, the average homeowner is not experienced enough to identify and solve window related problems.
While pre-existing issues might not be as obvious until the window has been removed, problems with the frame, insulation or drywall might require more work than you bargained for.
3. Risk of Increased Repair Expenses:
Improper window installation can lead to drafty rooms, water leaks, bugs, and higher energy bills.
By hiring a trained professional, you can ensure that your windows are perfectly installed to endure many years of safety and functionality.
4. Slower Progress:
Whether you are using an instruction manual or a YouTube tutorial, DIY projects take a lot of time.
Without the proper equipment, it could take weeks!
Instead, a full team of certified installers can typically finish your window replacement project within a day.
5. Risk of Property Damage:
For the untrained eye, there is a greater risk of accidentally hitting a plumbing line, electrical cords or other property-damaging hazards.
While the prospect of a DIY project may appear cheaper at first glance, the risk of any small error could potentially multiply your renovation expenses in the long run.
6. Limited Materials:
Full-service window companies provide customized replacement windows in a variety of colours, materials, and styles.
Unfortunately, DIY projects will miss out on the customized selection process and have a limited scope of materials to choose from.
7. Higher Energy Bills:
Without proper sealing, your DIY window replacements might allow heat to escape your home without you even noticing.
Unfortunately, your window’s inability to retain internal temperatures will also cause a spike in your property’s overall energy expenses.
8. Loss of Warranty:
If your existing windows are still within warranty, it is important to note that any DIY repairs may be considered unauthorized modifications.
Without professional installation, your windows will not be protected under warranty or have access to ENERGY STAR® rebates.
9. Measurement Errors:
As most replacement windows are custom-sized to the dimensions of your specific needs, getting the right measurements are extremely important.
In most cases, you will not be able to return your window once it is purchased so it must be measured correctly the first time to avoid unnecessary expenses.
10. Poor Installation:
Without the frame, insulation, and trim in place, the risk of gaps, leaks, and rotting could turn your DIY project into a much bigger (and more expensive) reparation task.
To avoid the high chances of something going wrong, it is highly recommended that you work with a team of service professionals to ensure your windows are installed for optimal performance.
What are the Benefits of Professional Window Replacement Services?
While the above list of DIY risks can paint a pretty thorough picture, there are a wide range of features that professional window replacement services can bring to the table:
– Customized replacement windows
– Professional equipment to get the job done
– Extensive training and experience within the field
– Knowledge of potential problems and their solutions
– Professional materials and installation processes
– Increased safety assurance
– Extensive warranties
– A team of certified professionals to get the job done fast
– Clean up services
– Constant communication with a designated Project Manager
– Peace of mind
Replacing your home windows is one of the most important, functional and energy-saving home improvement projects that your property can undergo.
With
the level of skill, experience and training required, it is worthwhile to work
with a team of certified professionals who can make the most out of your needs,
budget and safety.
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If you are interested in
learning more about your window replacement options, our experts are always
happy to help!
Click here or call us at (905)
640-4016 for a complimentary consultation.
