“How do I know when to replace an exterior door or window?” Most homeowners know door and window replacement is an important part of home maintenance, but few know when it should be performed.
At Siding Express, we examine doors and windows all the time for signs they need repair or replacement. In this article, we’re using our expertise as Missouri’s favorite home improvement company to explain how to perform a home examination yourself. Is it time to call a contractor? We’ll help you decide.
A Guide to Door Replacement
Any doors you have are more than just part of the woodwork. They keep your home secure, seal in heated and cooled air, and can be a beautiful way to help you achieve the look you want your exterior to have.
Is It Time to Replace My Door?
- Wear & Tear: If you see scratches, dents, or general wear on a door, it’s time to replace it! A worn down front door brings down your curb appeal, and can ruin an otherwise beautiful exterior facade.
- Letting in Drafts: Has your home been unusually drafty lately? Have you noticed that your energy bill keeps climbing each month? Your doors may be to blame! Doors that don’t have a tight seal just aren’t doing their job to keep your home energy efficient. It’s time to replace.
What to Look for In a New Door
- Appearance: Most aspects of home maintenance aren’t a beauty contest. Your front door may be an exception! When you’re trying to create a beautiful home exterior that will clinch your home’s resale value, appearance is key. Look for a door you love that will help you nail that first impression.
- Materials: Most doors you’ll replace will be made of wood, steel, or fiberglass. Each has its own merits, but you’ll want to make sure you choose a material that’s right for you.
- Wood: Wood is a great natural insulator and has classic appeal.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass doors are a durable and affordable option for the homeowner who wants to save.
- Steel: Steel doors provide exceptional security and insulation, but they don’t last as long as wood or fiberglass doors.
A Guide to Window Replacement
New windows can help you save money on your utility bills and help you create a great look for your home. Here’s the lowdown on window replacement.
Is It Time to Replace My Windows?
Age: Did you know most homeowners have no idea how old their windows are? It’s true! If you’re not the first homeowner in a new build, you may have windows that are decades old and well past their prime. Old windows are far more prone to letting in air. If you suspect you’ve got windows that aren’t functioning well because of their age, it’s time to replace them.
Letting in Drafts: Windows that let in drafts need to be replaced. Window replacement is often overlooked as a part of home upkeep, but it has a massive impact on your energy efficiency. New windows seal in the air you’re paying to heat and cool. In our hot Missouri summers and cold winters, that’s important to the total you see on your monthly energy bill.
Condensation: If you see water droplets on your windows, that’s a sure sign they need to be replaced. Most double-glazed windows have two panes of glass with gas injected in between to improve insulation. If you see condensation, that means the watertight seal is broken. A cracked seal means it’s time to replace.
What to Look for in New Windows
- Framing Materials: Every window frame material has different characteristics that add value to your home. You may want to consider the following before you commit.
- Wooden Frames: Wood frames provide an organic look homeowners love. They’re a classic favorite for a reason: wooden frames can last for multiple generations. They’re also easy to paint and varnish if you want to refresh your look.
- Fiberglass & Vinyl Frames: Fiberglass and vinyl frames are a modern option that can easily mimic a classic look. They’re also famously low-maintenance. Be aware that vinyl does tend to fade over time, so you may have to replace it sooner.
- Style: If you want your home’s exterior to have a cohesive look, choosing the right window style is key. If you have a historic home, you’ll want to select windows that look appropriate for the time period. If you have a more modern home, the sky is the limit! Whether you prefer single- or double-hung windows, casement or sliding, there are endless possibilities.
Trust Siding Express with Your Window and Door Replacement
At Siding Express, we’re known for our exceptional craftsmanship and warm service. With 14 years of serving St. Louis and St. Charles counties, there’s no one better to help you replace your doors or windows. You can reach out to us via our contact form or call us at 636-757-3925. We’d love to help you create something special.