What is the R-Value of a Window?

older window with plants decor

It’s intimidating and annoying when you need to replace your windows and all of your research keeps bringing up technical jargon like R-values, U-values, and SHGCs, whatever those are. What do these things tell you, as the homeowner? Why should you care about them? I’ll tell you exactly why you should be interested in them.

The R-value of a window measures the thermal resistance of its material (the glass). It measures how effectively barriers, such as windows, resist heat flow, therefore keeping warm air from passing through it. R-values are not the only unit of measurement important for rating a window’s thermal efficiency. U-values are also important. 

To better understand the usefulness of the R-factor and its relationship with U-factors, read below.

What is the R-Factor of Windows?

The R-factor, or R-value, of barriers, such as windows, doors, insulation, walls, etc., measures the resistance of the barrier to the flow of heat. It’s how well a window resists heat flow. In other words, how well a window insulates. So, the way R-values work is, the higher the R-value, the more resistant the barrier is to heat flow, and therefore the better insulator it is for the home.

We call these units of measurement R-values because we’re measuring the glass’ resistance to heat. Why do R-values matter? Because they measure the effectiveness of the glass’s resistance to heat conductivity, these values tell contractors which windows are the most energy-efficient and will therefore save homeowners as much money in heating and cooling as possible. As a homeowner, you can imagine that is pretty useful information for you too as you start to watch the electric and gas bill amounts decrease bit by bit.

What is the Difference Between Window R and U Values?

Whenever you find glass or barrier performance charts, in addition to seeing the R-values, you’ll likely find U-values. U-values, or U-factors, refer to the whole window’s ability to insulate, not just the glass, like the R-value measures. After all, when a window is made, air can often sneak its way in or out through the grid, the track that the window slides on, and/or the edges of the frame. The U-value measures the efficiency of all of the materials used for the window, the frame, and the glass that was used. 

Along with the R and U-values, manufacturers will include something called the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). Glass windows are usually double-paned. While the R and U-values measure how well the interior pane in the windows keeps heat and cold inside the home, the SHGC measures how well the exterior pane keeps outdoor heat and cold out. 

All of these units tell a manufacturer and a contractor the thermal efficiency of the glass so that they can find the best windows for your home and budget. 

What is the Best R-Value for Windows?

R-values will normally lie somewhere between the range of 0.9 and 3.0, and like I was telling you earlier, the higher the R-value is, the more effective the window is, so you want as high an R-value as you can get. R-values can certainly reach higher levels, even as high as 8.065, but this is rare. It’s also important to remember that when one value is high, another is sacrificed. It’s just the balance of things.

What is the Best U-Value for Windows?

Unlike R-values, desired U-factors will vary based on geographical location. The Department of Energy’s  “Energy STAR” joint program with the Environmental Protection Agency divides the United States into four climate zones:

  • Northern Climate Zone
  • North Central Climate Zone
  • South Central Climate Zone
  • And Southern Climate Zone

Each quadrant will naturally desire different levels of transmittance in their windows. While Maine, in the northern climate, would want less transmittance in order to keep as much light and heat from the sun inside as possible, Texas would want more transmittance so that as the sun sends heat through the windows, it can be sent out almost as quickly and keep the air conditioning from working too hard. 

U-values will usually fall between the range of 0.20 and 1.20, where the lower the U-value is, the better because a lower U-factor means there is a lower thermal transmittance, where the warm or cool air comes through the window from the outside to the inside and creating a shift in the temperature difference. When the U-factor is low, that means there is less and less heat escaping. 

How to Calculate R and U-Values

As a homeowner, you won’t have to do these calculations when you’re replacing your old windows, because the values will be on the window labels for you. However, if you would like to calculate your own windows’ efficiency I’ll let you know how you can calculate both the R-value and U-value of a window. 

Normally, U-values are calculated by measuring the heat flow per unit area, time, and degrees F difference. In other words, U = [Btu/(ft²•°F•hr)]. Meanwhile, R-values are calculated inversely, with [(ft²•°F•hr)/Btu]. Want to know a secret? Once you’ve calculated one value, like U, R would be 1/U, and vice versa. 

There’s also a convenient calculator available here.

As you calculate these values, you might end up with a less-than-desired result. There are four factors that will influence what R and U values you get:

  1. The number of glass layers the windows have
  2. The space between each layer of glass
  3. What glaze was used
  4. How well and how tightly the windows were fitted 

What Windows Have Great R-Values?

Now that you know what values to look out for the next time you look for windows, where are you going to get your windows from? For my part, I recommend taking a look at Amerimax Windows.

Besides including stunning finishes like rain, glue chip, and satin etched, just to name a few but their glass and grid options include an argon gas option and super spacer option that will increase thermal efficiency, regardless of which one you choose. 

When argon gas is added to windows in between the glass layers in production, the gas will help insulate the house further by acting as a moving, thin barrier that minimizes heat transfer from the inside to the outside. 

Naturally, windows that are going to have high R-values and low U-values like you want will be labeled as Low-E windows. Low Emissivity glass is coated with layers of metallic oxide. This way, natural light comes in through the windows but the UV rays and infrared are deflected. In doing so, the metallic coats will act like a reflective mirror with heat and light waves of specific wavelengths and frequencies to come in and out, keeping the house warm during the winter but cool during the summer.

Conclusion

As you can see, replacement windows with good R and U-factors and SHGCs are a worthwhile investment to consider. From my experience as the owner of a professional home-improvement company, Amerimax Windows have consistently had some of the best thermally efficient windows, which is why I like to use them so much. Are you interested in switching out your tired windows to experience the difference? If you’re located in the Northern Colorado or Southern Wyoming areas, feel free to give us a call today at (970) 663-2868 or visit the window services page and fill out the contact form to make an appointment to discuss the finer details of your replacement window home improvement project.

How to Know When it’s Time to Replace Your Windows

If you are a home or business owner, you might have realized that you have some windows you think are not looking or working their best. You might be wondering how do you know when your windows need to be replaced? You might also wonder how long do windows last in a home or how often do windows need to be replaced? These are all fair questions and they are not things that many people think about asking when they have a home or business location built.

Signs of leaks, cold drafts of air, or condensation between the window panes can be signs that your windows need to be replaced. Windows last on average for 15-20 years, but some brands of windows might not offer this set lifespan.

If you have purchased an existing home or business, you might not even have access to all of the information that you need to answer some of these questions about the age or condition of your windows. This is where getting help from a professional can make all the difference to your home upkeep and care process.

How to Know When it’s Time to Replace Your Windows

There are some key ways that you can determine if your windows are going to need to be replaced soon. Some of these signs of wear and tear are more obvious than others, but you might find that all of them are present in your windows when you start looking at them more carefully.  If you have purchased a new property, it is a good idea to find out when the windows were last replaced so that you are sure about the level of care that they are going to need in the near future.

Windows will come with a warranty that you can use to address issues that crop up before the set end date of the expected lifespan of the window. These warranties can vary and you will need to know what they are for your home and business care needs.

Here are some indicators that its time to replace your windows:

1.       Not Opening and Closing

If your windows have stopped opening and closing smoothly, you will need to replace them. This is a sign that the window itself is failing and leaks and other issues are likely just around the corner. In some instances, the window can be repaired, but often with older windows, this is just an early warning sign that failure is just around the corner.

If you have a window that has stopped functioning properly, make sure that you start thinking about replacing it before tough weather damages the interior of your home.

2.       Cold Drafts

Windows that are installed correctly should not allow drafts of cold air to come into your home. If you think that you are feeling cold drafts of air around or near your windows, they are probably about to fail and start to break down. The casement around the windows and the frames of the windows can also wear out over time, so even if the window itself looks fine, the cold air you are feeling is a sign that your window is starting to fail.

Older windows that are not double-paned or up to energy efficiency standards can also cause these issues without having truly failed. You will still want to replace these windows as they will greatly impact the comfort of your home and your heating and cooling bills each month.

3.       Water Leaks

This is the sign of a window that has already failed. If you have water running in around the windows or leaking through the panes, you need to replace this window immediately. This is a sign that the window or the window frame has failed and the damage to your home’s walls or interior can be significant. This is one of the things that you cannot wait to fix and you will need to get someone out to replace a leaking window as soon as possible.

If you are worried that your windows might be leaking but you are only seeing some condensation on the frame or the window ledge, you should make sure that you contact a professional to come and take a look at it.

4.       Rattling in the Frame

If your windows make noise and rattle when the wind is blowing hard, this is a sign that your windows have worn out and need to be replaced. These windows are likely letting in lots of drafts of air and there is a risk that they could shatter. Rattling windows are a few storms from complete failure and you should take this sign of problems very seriously.

Rattling windows can be doing this due to age, a flaw in how they were made, or due to issues with the way that they were installed. All of these problems can lead to a significant issue with your windows that you should avoid at all costs.

5.       Condensation Between the Panes

If you are seeing condensation between the panes of your windows, you should consider this window just about through its useful lifespan. This is one of the signs that your window has started to experience issues that cannot be resolved and this can lead to issues with costs of heating and cooling as well as blocking the view out your window.

How Long Do Windows Last?

Most windows for residential or business use are made to last for 15-20 years. This can be varied somewhat based on the brand and there should be a warranty in place for issues that crop up ahead of this expected lifespan. You might need to look at the information for your windows if you are not sure how long they were supposed to last.

It is a good rule of thumb to consider any window that is 15 years or older to be past its most usable lifespan. If you have purchased a home recently that has windows that are partially through their normal lifespan, it can be a good idea to start budgeting for window replacements in case they start to turn up after a few years.

Window replacements can be expensive, so you should make sure that you are prepared to take care of this necessary part of the process of caring for your home. People who are not aware of the average lifespan of these parts of their home might be surprised when window repairs or replacement needs crop up. Consider this 15-20 year lifespan to be the average lifespan of this important feature of your home or business.

Work With a Skilled Team For Your Window Replacement Needs

If you have been looking for a team of caring and qualified experts to take care of your window replacement needs, you don’t need to look any further. Our qualified team of window installation and repair experts has the skills and knowledge to take care of the windows in your home or business with ease. You will be able to get advice and care from our team for jobs big and small.For those located in the Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming area, you should give us a call today at 970-663-2868. You can also visit our window services page and fill out the contact form. We will help you to make an appointment to discuss what is needed to make your next home improvement project a big success!

Should I Replace All My Windows at Once?

older window with plants decor

Every good contractor would advise you to replace the windows in your home after a particular period. After all, windows can degrade as they age and are prone to various damages.

However, it is always a concern whether you have to replace a few windows or every window at once. The answer lies in factors such as your budget, the reason for the replacement, and your aesthetic choice.

Nevertheless, it is ideal to replace all your windows at once. It is financially wiser as the market value for your house goes up, and you save more on labor.

If you’re wondering how a major window replacement project helps your house then you’ve come to the right place.

Should I Replace All My Windows at the Same Time?

Yes, replacing all your windows simultaneously is an ideal decision when it comes to improving your window’s aesthetics, efficiency, security, and improving your overall curb appeal. However, there are several factors influencing this choice, and they are all up for consideration.

Replacing a window boils down to the level of urgency it requires. For example, if a couple of windows are damaged, you may have to fix them immediately.

If they go beyond the state of reparability, replacing them is the best decision you can make. This might bring you to the question of whether you should replace the rest of the windows as well.

If this is the case, you have to consider your budget at hand. If you have room in your home improvement budget to do so, then go ahead and replace all your windows at the same time.

If you already have a few that are failing then this will be the proactive approach as it probably won’t be too much longer before the rest follow suit.

Partial Vs. Whole House Window Replacement

As the name implies, a partial house window replacement involves several of your house’s windows, while a whole-house window replacement covers all the windows in your home. Both types of replacement can be a major project depending on the number of units.

You can opt for a partial window replacement when minor damage has been detected on specific frames or screens. On the other hand, a whole house window replacement is appropriate if you are elevating the style of your home or if the windows go past their prime age.

Is It Worth It to Replace Home Windows?

Absolutely. Replacing your home windows come with several benefits not just for the structural integrity of your house but also in terms of property value.

Nonetheless, like any other project, there could be downsides ongoing for a whole house window replacement. Unfortunately, the gravity of these drawbacks is often felt when you pursue the project without proper planning.

So, to help you come up with the right decision, check out the following pros and cons of replacing your windows all at once.

Pros

1.       Cohesive Window Styling

If your purpose for the window replacement project is to update the style of your home, then doing it all at once is the most practical way to do it.

This is pretty common with houses that are decades old. At some point, owners would choose to remodel their home and keep the window frames and screens up the trend.

Changing the windows altogether guarantees that the quality and construction are even among all the windows. Likewise, it also ensures that the same materials are available and consistent for the project.

2.       Adds More Value to Your Home

Window replacement is considered one of the top home improvements that add value to your home. 

In most cases, you get up to 85% in ROI (return of investment) when you change your windows to an efficient design. Nevertheless, the ROI depends on different factors such as materials used, style, and durability.

3.       Repairs the Defects All at Once

Sometimes it’s tricky to find damages in your windows unless they are already too complex to ignore. But when you employ total replacement for your house windows, these defects are automatically covered.

Your contractor or window installers will secure that the frame fits well and the materials are of high quality, such as Amerimax products that can withstand the wear and tear common to windows.

Of course, you can expect this superior service level when you go for window installers committed to providing nothing but the best work.

Cons

1.       Requires a Specific Budget

Just like any other home improvement project, you will need to prepare a large sum of money depending on the window type you’re aiming for.

Hence, before pushing for a complete window replacement at home, it is beneficial to schedule a consultation with experts. Doing so will help you a lot with your planning based on your allocated budget.

If budget is a concern, reach out to us here at TNT Home Improvements to discuss our financing options.

2.       Major Home Improvement

Naturally, when you pursue a whole house window replacement, you subject your property to a major home improvement. This means that the labor process may take time and become a minor inconvenience for your household as opposed to simply having a few windows replaced.

However, this is a small sacrifice compared to the perks of a full home window replacement.

How Long Do Windows Last and How Often Should They Be Replaced?

Windows are known to last for up to 15 to 20 years. At least this is true for modern windows. Depending on the manufacturer, warranties can go for up to 25 years which is essentially a lifetime warranty considering the lifespan of the window.

You should consider replacing your windows after 15 to 25 years. Once your window goes beyond its optimum age, defects and inefficient functions become common. 

Therefore, it is crucial to learn more about your window’s warranty and the specific lifespan for the unit.

Why Should I Replace My Windows at Home?

In a nutshell, here are several factors that prompt window replacement.

Durability or Age

Some things are not meant to last forever. Unfortunately, windows are one of them. Hence, if your windows are past their intended lifespan, it’s essential to have them replaced. Otherwise, it will rapidly deteriorate in quality or be subjected to damages.

Energy Efficiency

You may want to consider replacing your windows at once if you aim for energy cost reduction. 

For example, air conditioning and heating units tend to consume more energy when air leaks through windows exist. 

Likewise, you could reposition or go for windows with larger panels to invite more natural light in obscure areas. This way, you could have minimal need for artificial lights that consume electric energy.

Damaged Windows

It’s time to change your windows when damages go out of control. These include water damage or intrusion defects, fogged glass, cracks, holes, and rattling frames.

Safety and Security

Windows that come with older homes often lack the tight safety and security offered by modern windows. So, if your windows cannot be secured tightly and efficiently, seek a whole house window replacement.

How Much Do Replacement Windows Cost on Average?

According to Forbes, the average cost for replacing a window ranges from $200 to $1,200.

Depending on the materials, you can also go for windows priced at $100 to $650. However, it may not be as superior as the pricier ones. On the other hand, the average cost for window installation or labor is between $100 to $300 for each window.

Is It Cheaper to Replace One Window at a Time?

Upfront, replacing one window at a time is cheaper. However, replacing all your windows in one order can be financially beneficial for the longer term.

For starters, contractors and window manufacturers tend to offer discounts for larger projects.

You also have the assurance that all windows are installed at the same standards, which improves heating and cooling efficiency. With that, you can save more money from energy costs.

Final Thoughts

Replacing all your house windows at once comes with a lot of perks. But you need to consider several factors given that this project is a huge investment. 

Replacing one broken window pane may feel like a potential DIY project, but when it comes to a whole house window replacement project it’s best to call in the experts.

Need Consultation About Window Replacement? We Can Help

If you are located in the Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming area, then give us a call today at 970-663-2868 or visit our Window services page and fill out the contact form to make an appointment to discuss your next home improvement project.

What Are Egress Windows?

Window installations can be complex and this is particularly true if you have a basement that needs some light to be provided to it through the installation of some windows. There are specific window types that must be used for these applications. You might not know much about this process, which is why you need to learn about egress windows.

Egress windows are commonly used for basement lighting or as a means of escape from a room that is lower than the ground level in your home. Egress windows are placed even with the ground line and can extend up above this line at various heights to provide light into rooms that are located below the foundation level in a home or business.

If you are ready to learn more about what egress windows are, read on!

What is the Purpose of an Egress Window?

In most places, basements are actually required to have egress windows because they provide a means to escape the room if something like a fire takes place. They also allow light to come into parts of the house or business that are built below the level of the ground. It would be a very dark and close feeling in these kinds of basement rooms without these windows.

Older homes were not required to have the same size windows as modern homes, and some of these homes will actually not have large enough windows to be used as an escape route. Many people with homes that were built before World War II choose to remodel these areas to include larger windows for improved light and for better safety for anyone who is sleeping or working in the basement.

Remember that the primary function of egress windows is to be used as a way to get out of a basement that is on fire, so you should consider safety as your first consideration when you are looking into adding these windows to your home.

What’s the Difference Between an Egress Window and a Regular Window?

Egress windows are really made with escape in mind, but they are not designed any differently than regular windows. These windows are often placed specifically for safety, but otherwise they will be the same double-paned casement or sliding windows that you might have in the rest of your home. They will have to meet a set size requirement to be an egress window and meet code standards, however.

People sometimes think that they can place regular windows into these living spaces and call it good, but you will often have to meet some code specifications for fire safety and to get your home insured. This is why it is a good idea to know what an egress window really is before you have someone come and put in new windows in the basement area of your home.

How do I Know if a Window is Egress?

You can measure your windows in your basement to see if they qualify as an egress window. You will need to measure the window placement from the ground inside your basement. This measurement must meet the code so that the window can be used for an easy escape. You will then need to measure the width of the window at the middle, top, and bottom.

Next, take vertical measurements on the sides and in the middle. This will tell you the width and the length of the window so that you can check the measurements against the codes that are upheld in your county or state. There are some international building rules and regulations that are referred to if there is no specific allowance that is made for this part of the building code in your area.

This is a simple process, but it can be very important to complete if you are considering buying a home that has basement bedrooms. You want to know if you are going to have an expensive replacement and remodel process ahead of you to be able to bring the house up to code. In some cases, you cannot get homeowner’s insurance if these windows are not sized correctly.

What Qualifies as an Egress Window?

Egress windows have to meet code, particularly if there are bedrooms in your basement. International building code states that each bedroom should have one egress window at least, just in case of fire. These must be large enough that an adult can fit out of them.

The standard that is adhered to in most situations is that the egress window must be at least 5.7 square feet, 20 inches wide by 24 inches high. The opening must be no higher than 44 inches from the floor. Double-paned casement or sliding windows are acceptable. The placement is the thing that defines them as egress windows rather than the design and materials that they are made of.

If your basement has the older-style windows that simply rotate inward some to let in some fresh air, these are not up to code. An adult person could not fit out through these windows which means that they need to be replaced. You can elect to have larger egress windows than the minimum size ones that are listed above, but you just cannot make them so small that an adult will not be able to climb out in the case of a fire or other emergency.

How Much Do Egress Windows Cost?

The answer to this can vary somewhat depending on your area and the number of alterations that will be needed to replace your windows. The job can be quite expensive if your home is older and has very small windows that are currently framed in. If you are simply replacing older egress windows with new ones, the task will not cost as much as having to remodel to fit larger windows into your basement walls.

You can expect an average of about $1,000-$5,000 per window to install. This can really add up if you have a large basement, so you should consider the rooms that will need the windows first, such as bedrooms. These rooms should be worked on first so that your home can meet code more quickly. This can also be a major cost if you are thinking of buying an older home and realize that this change needs to be made to secure insurance for your home.

Get Help With Your Egress Window Installation

Egress windows are not tough to install, but you might have a lot of questions about the process before you want to start on the work. This is normal and having an expert come help you to decide which windows you will need and how much the project will cost is a big help. Working with a team of qualified installers, this kind of window replacement job can be a breeze.If you need help with your window installation in Northern Colorado or Southern Wyoming, we can help! You can contact us today at 970-663-2868 or visit our window services page and fill out the contact form to reach out to us. Make an appointment and we will be happy to discuss your window installation project needs in detail.

Choosing Windows for Your New Window Installation in Loveland, CO

a female looking out new windows

With the warmer temperatures soon beginning, now is a great time to arrange for window installation in Loveland, CO. If you spent all winter avoiding drafts, replacing your windows now will reduce drafts in winter and make your air conditioning more efficient this summer. It is easy to know when you need new windows; choosing replacement windows is the difficult part. Here are five elements to consider when finding your new windows:

  • Price: You likely have a budget for your windows, but do not get too hung up on price. There are many value-priced varieties that offer all you need in terms of insulation and light. Check online reviews, since many less expensive varieties will likely score better. In many cases, it is advised that you purchase at the top of your budget. This is not usually necessary when it comes to windows.
  • The numbers: Pay attention to the window ratings. There are three that indicate performance the clearest. The U-factor or U-value indicates the ability of the window to keep heat in. It ranges from 0.20 to 1.20, and the lower the number, the better heat stays inside. Low U-factors are recommended for cooler climates. The solar heat coefficient indicates how well a window blocks unwanted heat from the sun. Lower numbers show a high ability to block heat. Finally, visible transmittance indicates the amount of visible light the windows allow to pass. Higher numbers mean more light. Your choice is not determined by climate alone. For example, homes that attract direct sunlight most of the day require a lower solar heat coefficient than homes that are well shaded.
  • Added features: If you buy good quality windows, you do not have to worry about features as much. Triple-insulated glass may be a good idea if you catch all the cold winter breezes, but it may not be necessary if your home is well sheltered from the elements. Many features are aesthetically based, so you will likely invest in them to help windows match your house better. Upgrades easily add up to 50 percent to the cost of windows, so if you are on a tight budget, you are better off buying quality and foregoing the features.
  • Climate ratings: Windows also contain ratings based on climate zones. This makes purchasing them easier, since rather than weighing the ratings, you can check to see if a window model is appropriate for the climate. You never want to spend money on high-end windows only to experience another drafty winter because you bought a variety that does not work for this climate.
  • Maintenance demands: Vinyl windows are the easiest to maintain. They are long-lasting and do not require painting. If you decide on another material because you want flexibility to change the color, you will spend more time painting, cleaning and maintaining them. The best course of action is to choose vinyl windows in neutral colors so they will match any future paint colors. That offers flexibility and low maintenance.

TNT Home Improvements is available for window installation in Loveland, CO this summer. Call us today to schedule an estimate.

Click here to learn more about our window installation services.

Seven Reasons to Invest in New Window Installation in Fort Collins, CO This Spring

picture of tall new windows

If you faced a drafty winter and no longer remember the last time you replaced your windows, it may be time for a new window installation in Fort Collins, CO before summer. Windows improve with new developments, and you could enjoy benefits that do not exist for you right now. Here are seven reasons to invest in new windows for your home:

  • More options: There may be more options for windows now than when your home was first built. You can choose from additional colors that may add new spark to your home or match your home better. There are different materials to choose from, as well. Aluminum, wood and vinyl fit many budgets, and you will likely find an aesthetic that works well with your home.
  • Energy savings: If you own an older home that still has its original single-pane glass windows, you already understand the power of the leak. These drafts make your HVAC work harder to keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. Improved insulation in modern windows offers a better barrier between you and outdoor temperatures. It is easier to maintain a consistent temperature inside, which will drop your utility expenses.
  • UV protection: Summer brings sunlight with it, and that can compromise the interior of your home. UV rays fade walls, hardwood floors, books and antiques. You can avoid these effects by installing windows with UV protection and preserve your decorating and valued possessions.
  • Improved airflow: Windows prevent drafts, but they do not cut off airflow. The newest designs contain insulation that assist ventilation while preventing leaks. This improves indoor air quality and prevents condensation that can harbor mold and mildew. If you have a household member who suffers a respiratory condition like asthma, new windows can make a difference in their comfort.
  • Curb appeal: If your home is on the market, old windows will repel potential buyers. It will look like you do not take care of your home, and they will wonder what else is going horribly wrong. New windows add to your home’s appeal by cleaning up its appearance. Even if you do not plan on selling your home soon, making your home look better is always a good project. Changing out the windows is one of the more budget-friendly ways you can improve your home’s appearance.
  • Noise control: Living on a busy street produces the constant drone of noise. The same insulation that keeps cold out in the winter and maintains indoor temperatures also decreases noise. You can order windows with higher insulation ratings to truly enjoy a quiet oasis inside your home, no matter the pandemonium outside.
  • Low maintenance: Homeowners who tire of constant home maintenance love their upgraded windows. The newest designs are easy to clean and repair. Many windows benefit from a quick yet gentle power washing, or simply need to be hosed off. The construction has also improved, which decreases the need for future repairs.

TNT Home Improvements offers new window installation in Fort Collins, CO. Call us today to schedule an estimate.

Click here to learn more about our window installation services.

Is It Time for New Window Installation in Fort Collins, CO?

pic of an old window that needs replaced

When people look at your home, one of the first things they will notice is the windows. Not only will they take note of their color, size and shape, but they may also focus on the condition they are in and whether or not they add to your home’s beauty.

As a homeowner, it is your duty to make sure your home—both the interior and exterior—stays in tip-top shape year-round. This means you’ll find yourself constantly making repairs and spending your time, money and energy to keep things functioning properly and ensure the beauty of your home is long-lasting. You will replace appliances, light bulbs and even furniture—and if you’re like many homeowners, you’ll also find yourself replacing and upgrading your windows.

Here are several signs that your home may be due for new window installation in Fort Collins, CO:

  • Windows don’t function properly: A good window will function properly. You should be able to open, close and lock your window without experiencing any issues. Many people who need new windows will find that they need to place something in the windowsill to keep windows from falling shut, or that a little too much force is required to get windows open.
  • Windows are painted shut: Windows are meant to be open so people can enjoy the warm sun and the calm breeze without actually going outside. In many older homes, people will find that their windows have been painted shut and that they can’t get them open or have extreme difficulty doing so.
  • You can feel a draft coming in from your windows: If you want to feel the cold air, you would open your windows or go outside. When your windows are closed, there should not be any air getting in, so if there is, it is definitely time for new windows.
  • Outside noises can be easily heard: When sitting in your home, you should not be able to hear everything that is going on outside or be disturbed by lawnmowers, car alarms, children playing and other noises often heard in a neighborhood. If you do, this is another clear sign that it is time to upgrade your windows.

Luckily, there are numerous benefits to be gained from new window installation in Fort Collins, CO. Along with your home being more aesthetically pleasing to you and your guests, you will also experience lower monthly energy costs and feel more comfortable in your home as well. Even if you don’t replace all of your windows at the same time, there will still be a noticeable difference in your home and you will start to enjoy it a bit more.

If your windows are in poor condition, it is time to get them replaced. Many people make the decision not to get new windows installed because of how much it can cost, but when examining the numbers, replacing your windows can actually save you money over the long term. Everyone deserves to live in a beautiful home, and having old, unattractive windows should not be the thing that’s holding them back.

To learn more about how you can benefit from new window installation in Fort Collins, CO, get in touch with TNT Home Improvements today.

Click here to learn more about our window installation services.

The Seven Benefits of Window Installation in Fort Collins, CO

pic of rain on a window

When it comes to home improvement, replacing your windows may not be the top item on the list—chances are it’s not on your list at all. But making the investment to replace the old windows throughout your home can actually have a multitude of benefits.

Not only will replacing those old windows increase your homes aesthetic appeal, but it will also improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance and even increase the resale value of your home.

Here are just a few of the many benefits of window installation in Fort Collins, CO:

Increase in curb appeal

Installing new windows is an easy and cost efficient way to update the look of your home. There are numerous styles available that will work to compliment the overall appearance of your home. Plus, the ever-growing selection of window types, colors, sizes and finishes gives you the opportunity to match your windows to your homes current look or to radically update it. If you’re looking to place your home on the market, this could even make and increase the overall value of the property.

Eco-friendly

Replacing your windows is a simple way to make your home green. Energy efficient windows keep the weather outside so temperatures stay regulated indoors. This decreases your demand on your air conditioning system or heater – reducing your family’s dependency on valuable natural resources. You may even be eligible for a tax break or a government rebate when you replace your windows with a new energy efficient model.

Home security

Has your family recently experienced a break-in? Then you may want to consider replacing your old, outdated windows just to be safe. Windows are one of the easiest ways for a burglar to unknowingly enter into your home. Many new windows on the market are designed with stronger locks, which are much more difficult to pick than the stock model lock on most windows. These safety-oriented designs have also been tested against different types of forced entry. By installing new windows, You’ll have the peace of mind knowing your family is safe against unwanted intruders.

Cost saving

Investing in new windows can actually reduce your monthly energy bill. As energy costs increase annually, new windows are constantly working to keep the warm air inside and the cold air out — or the other way around depending on the season. You’ll no longer have to over-work your air conditioner to keep your home cool during the summer. Your new windows will essentially pay for themselves with the huge monthly savings you’ll see on your energy bill.

Low maintenance

Most new window models are designed to keep maintenance to a minimum. Frame materials, such as fiberglass and vinyl, will rarely need a new coat of paint. Plus, most window hardware is made of stainless steel, which has been proven to stand up against both the harsh sun and weather.  By installing new windows, you’ll save both valuable time and money.

Click here to learn more about our window installation services.