If you’re planning a home renovation, you may be considering a window replacement. While a window replacement can definitely elevate your home’s curb appeal and help you save on your utility bill in the long term, it’s a big project that can cost you a bit of time and money upfront. 

For this reason, it’s important that you develop a plan for your project. A thorough plan will make the project run smoothly and help you avoid any unexpected delays or costs. Here are five tips to consider before you get started in order to make your window replacement a success. 

1. Identify Your Goals

Before anything else, your first step should be to identify your project goals. Ask yourself, “Why do I want or need replacement windows?” The answer will help guide you to the type of window, price point, and installation help that’s best for you. 

Some common motivations for new windows include:

  • Boosting curb appeal
  • Increasing energy efficiency
  • Adding safety measures
  • Improved weather resistance
  • Reducing maintenance costs

Or, if you’ve seen any of these signs it’s time to replace your windows, you may be shopping around for something better. 

2. Create Your Budget

Once you know your goals, you can start outlining your budget. As with any other home renovation project, window replacements are no small investment. Different materials, sizes, and customization options all come at different price points, so it’s important to know what features you’re willing to spend money on. 

While creating your budget, you should also decide on what you’ll use to finance your project. Nowadays, there are many financing options available, and a good window manufacturer may even offer a streamlined financing process you can use. A few other financing options include:

  • Establishing a home equity line of credit (HELOC)
  • Home equity loan
  • Mortgage refinance
  • Personal loan

3. Choose the Right Windows for Your Climate

Energy efficiency may or may not have been one of your main project goals. Either way, it’s a good thing to consider when deciding on the right replacement windows for you. Energy-efficient windows can keep your home at a controlled, comfortable temperature and help you save on your energy bills, big-time. 

Discovering the ideal energy ratings for your home’s climate can be tricky, but it’s worth finding out. You’ll want to look at two things: glass material and the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) energy efficiency ratings, which include U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), and air leakage. 

Let’s use the Midwest climate as an example. The ideal glass material for this region’s mix of hot, humid summers and subzero winters is treated dual-pane glass with Low-E glazing and argon gas. The most ideal NFRC ratings include a U-factor and SHGC of 0.3 or lower. 

4. Keep the Area Around Your Windows Clean

When it’s about time for installation to begin, you should ensure the space around your windows is open and clutter-free. This will provide you, or whoever you hire, with a better space to complete the project quickly, safely, and without error. 

For the interior of your home, this means you’ll need to remove any curtains or decor from around the windows, as well as clear a path from entrances to the worksite to avoid any trips and falls. For the exterior of your home, this means you’ll need to trim or remove any landscaping, like trees or bushes, that could get in the way. 

5. Get Help from an Expert

The best way to ensure your window replacement project is a success is to hire the right professionals to help you. Even if you can replace your windows DIY-style, you may still need some advice from someone who does it every day. 

If you’re looking for a place to purchase windows, visit a trusted window manufacturer or supplier that offers a wide range of quality products, at a good price, and with a good warranty. If you’re looking for someone to help install your windows, call a professional window installer who has a streamlined installation process and carries the necessary licensing and insurance. 

If you’re looking for both, contact the window experts at Zeeland Lumber & Supply. We carry a wide selection of quality, long-lasting, energy-efficient windows from top name brands in the industry. Also, with comprehensive installation services from our local partners, we can help you install them quickly, safely, and properly. We’ll help you make your window replacement a success.

Download The Homeowner's Handbook for Purchasing Replacement Windows
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