analysis: How to Make the Most of Your Window Replacement

No window replacement project can be complete unless it adds something special to the appearance of both your home’s interior and exterior. Choosing the right window style depends on numerous factors, most importantly, your specific architectural style.

• Most traditional homes, such as Victorian and Colonial homes, come with equally traditional windows, such as double hungs, casements, and bays and bows. Elaborate grills and designs are emblematic of these homes because they help accentuate their old world charm.
• Large and minimalistic windows, on the other hand, are iconic symbols of contemporary homes. Picture windows and sliding windows are popular choices for these structures due to their expansive glass and thin frames.
• If none of these windows suits your personal taste, you can always opt for uniquely shaped specialty windows. These units can be customized according to your specific needs and preferences. From round- to octagon-shaped windows, there is a specialty window that is bound to suit your home perfectly.
• Before making a decision, though, it’s important to discuss your options with a qualified professional. Expert contractors have the knowledge and expertise necessary to determine the ideal window styles for your needs.

• It’s no secret that window replacement is one of the costliest home improvement projects you can tackle. In fact, according to the latest Cost vs. Value report (2018), an upscale window replacement project can cost anywhere between $15,000 and $19,000.
• Local Renewal by Andersen® companies, for instance, offer different promos every month or season. Some states also offer rebates through energy-incentive programs when you install energy-efficient or ENERGY STAR®-certified replacement units.
• Make sure to talk to your trusted local contractor and ask about the promotions they offer before purchasing new replacement windows in order to maximize your investment.
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Generally, you have five options when paying for your window replacement project:

These tasks include:

• 1.Through a Window Dealer (or Contractor) –
  To cover the costs of your new windows, many window dealers or contractors provide direct lines of credit through the manufacturer. If the contractor you hire works directly with their own installers and doesn’t hire subcontractors, they may also cover the costs of installation.
• 2.Using a Home Equity Loan or Refinancing Your Mortgage –
  You might be able to refinance and release money for your home upgrades if you have established a good payment history through your mortgage. It’s also possible to ask your lender for an equity line of credit, which you can use to finance your window project.
• 3.Using Existing Credit Cards –
  Many lenders offer credit cards with 0% interest rates for at least six to eight months. If you’re only planning to replace a few windows and you can settle your balance during the introductory term, you can avoid finance charges for your upgrade. Keep in mind, though, that payments depend on your monthly balance, and once the introductory term expires, chances are, interest charges will drive up your balance quickly.
• 4.Using a Personal Loan –
  An unsecured loan offered through your bank or credit union is usually a great way to pay for smaller home improvements.
• 5.Applying for Government Loans –
  The Federal Housing Administration’s (FHA) Title 1 loans offer as much as $25,000 for single-home families who plan to invest in upgrades. They also run a special program known as the FHA PowerSaver Home Energy Retrofit Loan Pilot Program for projects aimed at improving a home’s energy efficiency, like window replacement.

• Warranties are important because they help protect you from unwanted costs should a material defect or an installation mistake cause your windows to perform poorly.
• Generally, there are two types of window warranties: material and labor warranties.
• Material warranties:
  cover any defect on the product itself—typically caused by manufacturing errors.
• Labor warranties:
  on the other hand, cover problems caused by poor workmanship or installation.

Before making that big purchase, take the time to discuss warranty options with your contractor. Not all contractors offer the same warranties—some don’t even offer warranties at all—so be sure you are clear on this before buying your new windows.