Much like any part of your home, your windows will soon sustain wear and tear. Some might already be outdated and need to be replaced with a more energy-efficient unit. But with a window replacement also comes a slew of misconceptions that we often hear from our clients.
From being merely an aesthetic touch to not needing it unless the windows are heavily damaged, we created this guide to debunk some of the myths we keep hearing from our fellow Mankato locals. And if you’re browsing replacement windows for homes, it’s high time to put an end to the following myths:
1. Window replacements are merely for aesthetics.
This is the biggest myths often thrown when talking about home windows replacement. Sure thing, windows add visual appeal to your home, but it’s not its only purpose.
Upgrading to new windows serve a practical purpose, but in regulating temperatures in your home and boosting your comfort. The curb appeal is just a big bonus and you can also choose from a wide variety of designs and styles that suit your taste.
In fact, getting a new window replacement & installation will bring these benefits to your home:
- Energy-efficiency. Energy-efficient windows greatly reduce drafts all year round, which will lower your energy bills.
- Added comfort. Since a modern house windows replacement has better energy performance, they will also do wonders in keeping you comfortable across seasons. Also, it will keep dust and allergens off your home, which means you can breathe easier.
- Noise reduction. When you replace or retrofit windows, you also enhance its ability to block noise from the outside. This helps create a calmer and quieter environment for your home.
- Increased property value. If you’re planning to sell your home soon, you can replace home windows to boost its market value. Also, the new windows will surely catch the eyes of potential buyers, making your property easier to sell.
- Improved security. Many cases of break-ins happen due to damaged or low-quality windows. Upgrading to modern and durable ones will help secure your home, especially if you live in an area prone to burglary.
2. You can’t replace windows during winter.
Let’s debunk this once and for all: you can get replacement house windows at any time of the year. Whether it’s winter, spring, summer, or fall, you can call us at Boelter Is Boelter to replace your outdated or old windows.
While it’s understandable that the inclement weather could make some window replacement projects challenging, it’s still very much possible. Our expert team can install and insulate your new windows so you don’t have to suffer from cold drafts all winter.
In some cases, winter is actually a good time to get new windows and see how well they will hold up in actual cold conditions. This way, you can get adjustments or retrofits that will give you and your family maximum comfort.
3. Replacement windows are very expensive.
Windows replacements don’t always have to be expensive. There are a wide range of budget-friendly options you can choose from without sacrificing the quality and style.
With the right provider, you can replace all windows in your home without having to dig into your savings. Here at Boelter Is Better, we offer financing options for our clients, so they can get the best window replacements at a monthly cost they can easily afford.
Aside from that, we also offer major brands like Lindsay Pinnacle, ProVia, and Pella Windows at the best price in Mankato and the entire Southern Minnesota. With us, you’ll get nothing but long-lasting and durable windows!
4. You only need a replacement window once it’s broken.
You don’t have to wait for your existing windows to fall off the hinges before you get a home window replacement. In fact, you can replace your windows if you think they are no longer energy-efficient or you want to boost the visual appeal of your property.
Aside from that, getting replacement windows before they sustain serious damages will protect the overall structural integrity of your home. Imagine waiting for a window to leak and the surrounding structure to be damaged before you call a window expert. That spells more expenses and a bigger inconvenience for you.
If you’re unsure if it’s time for new windows for home, call us, and our experts will provide you with recommendations. We’ll also inform you about various options that will fit into your budget.
5. It’s easy to do a DIY home window replacement.
We’ve had several clients who tried do-it-yourself window replacement only to end up calling us to salvage their DIY project.
Overall, there’s nothing bad about making some home improvements on your own, but if you’re going to spend on a brand-new window, you might as well call a professional for proper installation.
While it can be tempting to flex your DIY skills, you should think twice if you don’t have experience replacing windows before. It’s possible that you can put up the window and have it function well. But when it comes to ensuring its energy-efficiency, you’ll need more than just a few tools to test it.
Above all, you risk breaking the new windows you recently purchased. This will cost you more money and more effort, so it’s best to trust a professional from the beginning.
6. Replacing house windows is too disruptive.
Replacement home windows won’t be too disruptive to your chores if you have the right installers. Experienced window contractors can perform replacements like a breeze, so you don’t have to vacate your home or pause your routines for too long.
Here at Boelter Is Better, we always plan out every project before we start the job. We plan around your chores and schedule to make the window replacement as less invasive as possible. Our goal is to provide you with quality windows without compromising your comfort.
Overall, a window replacement will not be as disruptive as a major home remodeling project. Depending on the type, size, and number of windows to be replaced, our crew can get the job done in just a few hours.
7. Windows for homes should be airtight
A replacement home window doesn’t have to be fully airtight. Because if it’s totally sealed, you’ll be suffocated inside your house in just a few minutes!
Modern windows have vents that allow your home to ‘breathe’ without causing a major impact on your energy bills. Aside from that, changes in temperature will cause the window material to expand or contract, which means it needs some ‘breathing space’.
If not, your window glass may shatter during a very hot day or the frame will splinter or break easily. Also, you’ll have pressure issues inside your home, like doors sticking or difficulty opening other windows.
8. An NFRC sticker means that the window is energy efficient.
Take note that the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) sticker on your new window doesn’t automatically mean it’s energy-efficient. In fact, an NFRC sticker only rates the window, so you can qualify for tax credits. To be specific, you can receive tax credits from the new windows for a house if the NFRC rating is not higher than .3.
However, when it comes to energy-efficiency, you should look for an Energy Star sticker. Energy Star meets the government’s standards when it comes to energy-efficiency for your property and directly states how well the replacement window for house can reduce your energy consumption.
With that said, an NFRC sticker is helpful when shopping for a window replacement for home. But if you’re opting for energy-efficiency, you should look for an Energy Star sticker instead.
9. You don’t need permits to replace windows
According to Minnesota state laws, some window work does not require permits, but others will. Some of the exempted building work includes installation of storm windows and replacement of glass, wood parts, screens, and minor repairs.
Depending on the type of window and extent of replacements you need, we will have to secure the necessary permits to get the job done. Don’t worry because our crew will handle everything, so you don’t have to worry about paperwork when getting a house window replacement from us.
10. Home replacement windows are only needed for older homes
While it’s true that old homes probably need new windows, newer one can benefit from replacements, too. It all depends on the current condition of your windows, how energy-efficient it is, and how much you think it suits your property.
We’ve had many clients opt to replace their home windows before they get outdated or broken. We’ve also worked on projects where a buyer asked to change the windows of their newly constructed house.
Overall, getting energy-efficient and modern windows has nothing to do with how old your home is. If you consider comfort, safety, and savings paramount, then it would be a wise choice to discuss replacements with a roofing, siding, and windows expert like Boelter Is Better.
11. Replacing all home windows will eliminate all drafts
We also remind our clients that getting a whole-house replacement windows is not the sole solution to drafts on their property.
Sure thing, your windows can be one of the culprits for “air leaks” that allows cold or hot air to sneak out of your home. However, your doors can also be the one to blame and must be inspected as well for potential leaks. If you suspect that your doors are causing drafts, feel free to call us, and our door installer can inspect it for you.
Aside from that, your electrical outlets, recessed lighting, and other gaps on your walls can also be causes of drafts. It’s best to have all these areas checked to minimize any heating or cooling loss inside your home.
Looking for high-quality yet affordable window replacements in Mankato?
If you’re planning to get affordable and quality window replacements, call Boelter Is Better today! We carry the best brands in the market, and we can replace your old windows regardless of type, size, or style. We also offer financing options so you can get the windows your home deserves without having to break the bank.
For over 30 years, we continue to be the trusted exterior services provider in Southern, MN. All our installations are backed by the best warranties, so you’ll get the best value for your money. Above all, we will assign a personal project advisor to you to help choose the best windows for your home.
If you’re looking for a replacement window near me in Mankato, feel free to contact us today! We can send a window specialist to your property to give you a detailed and no-obligation estimate!
