Two Questions New Homeowners Have About Replacing Their Windows

Posted on: 7 April 2015

Your home's windows are essential for both the look and comfort of your home as well as meeting required building codes. While your home's windows are designed to last for many years without encountering problems, issues are bound to arise as the window frame ages, such as moisture leaks and energy inefficiencies. When these problems become severe enough, it will be necessary for you to replace your windows. However, if this is a task that you are not particularly familiar with, you may benefit from learning the answers to a couple of common questions.  

What If You Want To Adjust The Size Of Your Home's Windows?

It is not uncommon for homeowners to want to take the opportunity to adjust the size of their windows. Often, this occurs because they want to increase the natural light in certain rooms. However, if this is something that you want to do, it is important to note that you will not be able to choose replacement windows for this task. Rather, you will have to opt for the installation of entirely new windows. 

This is the case because replacement windows are designed to simply slide into the space where the original windows were located. In contrast, adjusting the size of the window will entail making major modifications to the wall, and as a result, replacement windows will not be the best option. To ensure that the windows fit the enlarged spot, you will need to opt for new windows to be installed, and while new ones may be a little more expensive than replacement windows, they can help ensure that you avoid problems that come with poorly fitted window frames. 

Should You Have Cladding Installed Over your New Windows?

Window cladding is something that many homeowners have a very limited understanding about. While some people may opt to go without cladding because they assume it will be unsightly on their homes, this can leave the window more exposed to routine problems such as insects and moisture. However, cladding can significantly increase the lifespan of a window, and this can help you avoid problems and save money on replacements. 

Interestingly, cladding can be purchased in a variety of styles, and this will help ensure that you are choosing an option that will perfectly match your home's existing exterior. For example, it is possible to invest in vinyl cladding that has been dyed and textured to look like almost any building material. Whether you need cladding to match exotic woods or masonry, vinyl cladding may be the perfect solution for you. 

Upgrading your home's windows can be a great way of sprucing up your home's appearance while also providing yourself with practical benefits. By understanding the difficulties of expanding existing windows and the importance of cladding, you should find the process of upgrading your windows to be far less difficult or confusing. For more information, contact Simpson Windows and Doors or a similar company.

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