Ask any number of home improvement professionals, and it is likely they will agree that replacing those drafty old windows is the single most important upgrade you can make to your home. Heating and cooling lost through outdated windows account for a majority of your homes energy costs.
What most homeowners often ask is: Should I replace all my windows at once?’
The answer is a firm YES! While the DIY, one-window-at-a-time method may seem like the most economical approach, there are a number of reasons why you should hire a reputable contractor to replace all the windows in your home at the same time.
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Team Approach
The crews are seasoned professionals that have a ‘big picture’ view of the entire project from start to finish. Setting up scaffolding, careful removal and disposal of your old windows, then preparing and installing your new windows is something they do daily. Fast and accurate, the crew will handle the clean-up, too!
Consistent Supply
When you buy and install one window at a time, there is no guarantee that your source will not run out of or discontinue the style you choose. A professional contractor has suppliers that are well established in the industry and carry a large selection of windows to match the style of your house.
Help With Ideas And Design
Call several different contractors for an appointment and see if their design team will come to you, listen to your ideas, and come up with the perfect set of windows to improve the look and efficiency of your home.
Financing a Problem?
The most reputable contractors have experienced Finance Teams that work with many of the well-known lenders in your area, so the process from application to approval is quick and painless. Monthly payments are often less than you would spend driving to the ‘Big Box’ store to buy and install your windows one at a time.
The Legal Stuff
Most importantly, find a contractor that is licensed, bonded, and insured for window replacement in Northern Virginia, and will handle the permitting and inspection paperwork required by law. Do not get caught by the Building Inspector attempting a weekend DIY project that could cost hundreds of dollars in fines and penalties!
Should you decide to go ahead and install your windows one at a time, here are a few things to consider. A professional installer already knows:
Where To Start?
If you anticipate your project stretching out over time, start with the worst-condition windows. Broken panes, inoperable sashes or poorly fitted windows should be given consideration as the first to go. If all the windows are in the same condition, start with the side of the house that gets the most weather.
Does the rain and/or snow in your area come from the north? Start there or start with the windows that get the most sunlight. Every window you replace will incrementally reduce your heating and cooling cost. Keep in mind, though, the longer the project takes, the longer it will take to recoup your investment in new windows.
Order ALL The Windows At The Same Time
This will ensure that you have all the windows ready when you are. Distribution interruptions, like those caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, can cause your project to stall for months at a time. Store your windows in a safe place until ready for installation.
Learn About Window Replacement
Spend a couple hours on YouTube watching house window installation videos. Take note of the tools used, the steps taken and special considerations for the type of window you plan to buy. Terminology is important when ordering your windows. Make sure you and your supplier speak the same language when it comes to sizing, ordering, and installation tips.
Have Your Paperwork In Order
When applying for your permit, get the manufacturer’s drawings, window U-Value certificate and total dollar amount of your project. Contact your local Building Inspector for more help with the application process.
As you can see, there is a lot of preparation, planning and thought processes that go into the decision of whether or not to replace all your windows at the same time. Hiring a professional to handle every detail from design to installation gives you more time to enjoy the fresh, new look of your home. And, over time, you can appreciate the energy saving benefits and increased home value that come with this important home improvement project.