Ask Asa: Windows
Hello Yu-
Last year we bought an older home in Alton. We took it down to the studs and rebuilt it. We knew when we bought the house that the windows needed to be replaced, but we wanted to hold off a few years to give the checking account time to recover.
That was before we noticed two of the bedroom windows leaking.
My issue? It’s not something we wanted to spend money on right now- but I’m concerned that not getting it all done at once will lead to other issues.
Can I replace the windows in phases? Or should I bite the bullet and have them all done at the same time?
Thanks,
Mike from Alton, IL
Replacing Your Windows:
Mike, that’s a great question.
I’ve done a few full-gut remodels for myself and if there’s one thing you can count on: it’s unexpected expenses. I feel your pain. I understand wanting to replace in phases- you aren’t the first to ask.
In the field, I’ve heard homeowners concerned about being stuck with a mix of different styles if you spread out the replacement. Good news: that shouldn’t be an issue if you choose classic window styles and phase the replacement out over <5 years.
The bad news? If you have a few windows that are letting in water already…the rest aren’t far behind.
I’m not one to take risks with exteriors. Water damage can put the tens of thousands you’ve already invested into your interior at risk.
But if you’re still seeing if you can wait a few more paychecks- or seasons- before getting them replaced, here’s a few things to check:
How Bad Are These Windows Really?
Your existing windows were likely installed all at the same time, but that doesn’t mean they’ll wear evenly. Weather-facing windows will wear faster than those on a sheltered side of your home. Those exposed to hours of full summer sun will also fail faster.
If you don’t want to spend the money to fully replace the windows in your home- here’s a quick way to assess how critical the damage is:
If your windows are:
Difficult to open and close
Letting in a draft you can feel with your hand
Chipped, damaged, or water stained
They need to be replaced.
Some of our clients do choose to replace their windows by house-side, usually starting with the front or street-facing side to up their curb appeal and leaving the back for a year or two later. If you’re home is a newer build (1970s+), this can be a great cost saving approach.
But you mentioned fully gutting your house. Without seeing what you have right now, I can guess you might be located in one of the older Alton neighborhoods.
If that’s the case? Unfortunately, the single pane windows common to the historic homes here in Alton are costing you more than the headache of piling rags on your sill to catch rainwater. As we head into the hottest days of summer, your windows are actively putting additional stress on your cooling system.
I totally get not wanting to drop five figures on replacing all your home’s windows…but your HVAC system failing early because of the strain? Even worse. The cost to stay comfortable now and not have another $10-15k system fix in a few years may be worth it with all the work you’ve already put into the house.
The Secret to Saving Money On Window Replacement (By Using Good Design)
The good news is, whether you choose to replace a handful of windows or go for the full home, you can make a few design choices to bring the cost down.
Picture windows are a high-style, budget-friendly secret.
These windows are fixed (don’t open) and cost between 30-50% less than double hung windows. One of the things we can do before we quote you on window replacement is to walk through your home with you (or any other family members/roommates who spend most of their time there) and map out what windows need to open to create
Building Code Compliant Emergency Escapes
Good air flow
Good Workflow/Living Experience
Right now, it’s likely all of your windows were designed to be opened. But how many do you actually use- or need- to open?
Replacing side-by-side windows over a kitchen sink with one giant picture window can not only let in more light and elevate your space…it can also save $400-500 on that one replacement alone.
Single hung windows are another great option for saving money. These windows open at the bottom, or sometimes the side, but the other half is stationary. They also cost less than double hung windows.
Vinyl Vs. Wood Windows
Windows seem like they’d take an enormous amount of labor and time to install, especially in a historic home where every window can have a different measurement. If you’re hung up on having a crew disturbing your home for weeks on end- I have more good news for you:
As long as you have the right measurements and keep track of which window goes where? Installation is fast and simple.
Even if you have a big budget, when it comes to new windows I recommend vinyl over wood.
Surprising coming from someone who loves historic homes, right?
There’s three reasons why:
2X the lifespan of wood
Little to no maintenance
Added insulation for additional efficiency
Unless you live in a preservation district or have an HOA that demands refinishing your existing windows? Go for vinyl. These older homes need all the help they can get to reel in heating and cooling costs. We can keep your original exterior trim to preserve the curb appeal of your exterior- and you’ll get to enjoy a comfortable home without hearing the AC running nonstop.
One or All? How Many Windows?
Whether or not you replace all the windows at once? That’s a choice I’ll leave to you.
Just remember, having us walk through with you and making a few user experience choices can save you thousands on materials. Maybe that end bill won’t be as crazy as you’re thinking.
Thanks!
Yu
