Well, find out what Gene and Katie think about this project. As usual, they have different takes on the subject In all the old houses we have owned probably the single largest source of heat loss has been the leaky windows. Now, there are remedies for this problem short of throwing the whole window out like Katie suggests. In some cases, a good quality storm widow will do a pretty good job of stopping the drafts. Weather-stripping is another cost effective solution. We've had windows that were so worn that neither of these solution would do the job. In this case, replacing the window is the only alternative and I think this is a doable project for most handy homeowners. Replacing an old window with a modern double pane window is a very straight forward project as long as you are installing a replacement window that is the same size or slightly smaller that the original. You don't have to cut the siding, the outside trim can stay in place, and in most cases the inside window casing doesn't have to be modified. I have to admit that the comfort level of our house is much higher once we swapped out a couple of the old windows. I sit by a window in our home office that I replaced last year all by myself. I do miss the telltale rattle of its predecessor; however, because I could always tell how windy it was outside.
Replacing old windows with new vinyl ones isn't a decision - it's a must-do project. The old beauties are usually laden in layers of paint, difficult to clean, and what's even worse - leaking air like a sieve. The only decision I see is deciding who should do the work. I say let a professional do it from start to finish. I don't want anyone except a window expert messing around with holes in my house. I know Gene will disagree because there's nothing he likes more than hauling out his reciprocal saw and blasting through the siding. It just makes me nervous when he cuts large holes in my house.
I speak from experience because many years ago when we were young and full of energy we opened the second floor of our cape cod to expand it with a dormer and create two additional bedrooms and a bathroom. The progress of the job was fairly uneventful until he cut a large hole in the roof to make room for the dormer and new windows. That year we spent Christmas Eve battling snow and frigid temperatures trying to recover the tarp that a cold wind had thrown open. It was a memorable Christmas to be sure.
I'm all for watching a window contractor do the job as long as a few hours later I can see him install my new windows.
Replacing Windows - A doable project ??? Thinking about replacing a window?
Gene
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