Are you looking to hire a window contractor in New England this season? One of the best things that you can do for yourself as a homeowner is to ask questions. Asking replacement windows contractors your questions will help you weed out the great contractors from the not-so-great.
It can also make a major difference in the overall experience with your contractor, as well as the outcome of your window installation. These questions to ask a window replacement contractor will make your life much easier!
In this blog, we’ll show you some questions to ask your contractor as well as in-depth answers. The best window replacement contractors should be thorough and ready to educate you on their products, installation, and more.
How do I know if my Windows are Energy Efficient?
If you’re like most homeowners in New England, you likely have concerns about the performance of your windows. After all, electric bills are projected to be higher than ever for many households this summer, with electricity prices rising by an average of 3.9%.
However, here in New England, the situation with rising energy costs is more dire than the national average. Residents in our region can expect to see energy bills rise by nearly 10%.
So, how can you tell if your windows are energy efficient?
Insulating Materials
The window material you choose for your home makes a difference in performance. Vinyl is one of the top choices for window replacement materials. When professionally installed, vinyl frames are capable of reducing drafts and preventing energy from escaping. This keeps your HVAC system from overworking and causing your utility bills to rise.
The most insulating vinyl frames include foam inside. This provides another barrier against energy loss and keeps the windows performing at peak condition.
Air Infiltration Ratings
A window’s quality is downgraded if it’s incorrectly installed. Professional window installation is essential for reducing air infiltration, where energy can escape through the areas of the window including:
- The sash
- The sill
- Where the sash meets the sill
- Where the sash meets the rail
- The sash perimeter
Air leakage from windows has a significant impact on a home’s thermal envelope. Drafts are one of the primary reasons that homeowners replace windows, as it directly leads to energy loss.
According to the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, fixed windows—those that do not open—are the most airtight windows available. For operable windows such as double hung or casement, the AAMA suggests keeping the windows locked to help reduce air infiltration. Durable and quality weatherstripping also adds another barrier against drafts and energy loss.
Think of air leakage in terms of soda cans. The average ratings range from .12 to .30 CFM in brands such as Pella and Anderson.
However, Coastal Windows & Exteriors has one of the highest air infiltration ratings in the industry at .01 CFM. This is the difference between windows leaking 24 air cans of soda per minute vs. .8 air cans of soda per minute.
Energy Efficient Gases
When it comes to making your New England home more energy efficient with window installation, a lot of the power comes from the glass packages. Invisible energy efficient gases are filled inside of the window’s glass panes for additional insulation.
These gases are known as argon and krypton. Argon is the most common gas in replacement windows, but you may also find krypton in options such as triple pane windows.
Without these gases, energy can easily be lost through the glass panes. This makes your windows much less efficient while your energy bills remain high.
Can I Keep My Home Cool in the Summer by Tinting my Windows?
Window tinting is a newer technology that is continuously advancing. In the future, some window films may have an R-Value as high as R-20—which is the equivalent of an insulating wall.
While this technology might be available years into the future, today’s window films can help control room temperatures to an extent. This is an investment you can consider if your windows are structurally sound and if you only need extra tinting on a few windows.
Is Window Tinting Equal to Replacement Windows?
Some homeowners may choose to use window tinting if they are looking to spend minimal money upgrading their windows. However, keep in mind that home window tinting isn’t a replacement for new window installation.
While tinting can help block UV rays, these films fall short in terms of other energy saving features.
For example, new vinyl window installation can help cut down drafts in your home. According to the National Fenestration Rating Council, US homeowners collectively lose $35 billion per year due to inefficient windows. Windows can be considered inefficient in different ways, such as bad installation, worn out weatherstripping, missing argon gas, and more.
Window tinting can only help block out some of the UV rays. When you install new replacement windows, you’ll reap a variety of benefits for the home.
What are the New Energy Star 7.0 Requirements?
The specific Energy Star 7.0 requirements for the New England region include a U-factor of 0.22 or less for windows. This means that windows must be highly insulating to meet these standards​. The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) requirement has also been set to a minimum of 0.17 for the first time in our region, emphasizing the need for windows that can effectively manage solar heat gain while still allowing light to pass through​.
Furthermore, for all climate zones including New England, windows, doors, and skylights must meet specific U-factor and SHGC requirements based on their climate zone to qualify for the Energy Star label​ (ENERGY STAR)​. These new standards are part of a broader effort to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact​.
What are the Popular Styles of Replacement Windows in New England?
Selecting the style of new windows can be an exciting endeavor. With so many options available, you might wonder what style of window is best for your New England home. Consider the following descriptions and advice for choosing new replacement windows.
Double Hung Windows
It is no coincidence that double-hung windows are among the most popular window types in our community. This is the most traditional window style, not to mention the oldest. The concept dates back several hundred years and still works on even the most modern homes! But what is a double hung window?
A double-hung window is typically taller than it is wide. It opens with a single sash that lowers up and down. Modern double hung windows feature a tilt-in option that makes them very easy to clean. These windows are perfect for ventilation and complementing curb appeal from nearly any era!
Picture Windows
If there is one way to describe picture windows it is simplistic beauty. Picture windows come in an array of sizes, although one of the most popular options is a large rectangular picture window. Picture windows are commonly found in living rooms where they bring in an abundance of natural light and provide a sweeping view of the outdoors.
A picture window is unique because it is fixed. This means that it does not open and won’t provide any ventilation. However, for what it lacks in ventilation, it makes up for in style.
Bay Windows
If you enjoy large and elegant windows, the bay window might be the right pick for you. No matter the style of your home, bay windows bring about a gorgeous elegance that nearly no other window type can compare. These windows are quite large in scale and even provide a seating area!
Casement Windows
Casement windows are a standout option for traditional homes. These windows are shaped similarly to double hung windows but differ in terms of function. Their sash opens with a crank-out handle, making it unique from any other window type. They are easy to operate, secure, and always look beautiful.
Geometric
You’ll find geometric windows in some of the most unique homes in New England. They are one of the best windows for defining the character of your home’s architecture! The best part is that you don’t have to be living in a very unique home, such as a Victorian, to make this window style work. You can use geometric window styles to make modern homes a little more charming.
Decorative Features
Once you choose your window style, the creativity doesn’t stop there. It’s surprising how small details such as decorative glass can quickly change the look of your home. The same goes for custom grid systems. Best of all, it gives an aesthetic impact from both the inside and outside of the home.
How do I Choose the Best Window Replacement Contractors?
Are you looking for window contractors in New England? The good news is that there are a lot of choices, but the bad news is that not all window contractors are created equal.
Below are just some of the standards that you need to consider when hiring a window contractor in New England.
Look for Replacement Windows Contractors who are Connected to the Community
Is your window contractor involved in your community? Consider how the contractor gives back to the community, especially to those in need. This demonstrates the character of your contractor and potentially how far they are willing to go to ensure you are satisfied.
This also ties into the idea of reputation. A reputable contractor will be involved with local chambers and have several accolades or awards.
Choose an Established Window Contractor
Another important element of choosing a window contractor this spring is proof of establishment. Unfortunately, many window contractors have a pickup truck and that’s it. Your window contractor should have a showroom and a place where they operate their business, ranging from accounting to production and sales. If your replacement windows contractor does not have an established place of business, look elsewhere.
Look for a Business License and Insurance
A business license ensures that you are working with a state-registered contractor. Ask to see proof of this!
Meanwhile, insurance is another incredibly important aspect in choosing a window contractor in New England. You’ll need to ask if the contractor carries general liability insurance. They should carry no less than $500,000 and around $1,000,000 of coverage. If the contractor does not have insurance, they will be personally liable for any damages.
New England Homeowners: Ask us Your Window Questions Now
Do you have more questions to ask a window replacement contractor? If you’re looking to replace your existing windows or add new ones to your home this spring, it’s important to do your research before making a decision. You’ll need to know style of window to choose along with energy-saving upgrades.
As always, remember that energy efficiency is more than just an aesthetic choice; it has real benefits beyond cost savings. Replacing old windows with new ones can help reduce the impact of climate change while improving the look and performance of your home.
Contact Coastal Windows & Exteriors today if you have questions about window replacement. We’re one of the best replacement windows contractors in New England!
