Replacing Windows on an Older Cincinnati Home

There are many Cincinnati homes that still have their original, single-pane, wood windows. Others have had their windows replaced at some point, but those replacement windows have already aged and experienced some deterioration. If your old home has old windows, replacing those windows can have a lot of benefits— and is not a change you need to feel apprehensive about! The following are four questions and concerns Cincinnati home owners often have about replacing windows on an older home.

Will New Windows Coordinate With Your Home’s Style?

Some owners of older homes avoid replacing their windows because they are afraid the new windows will look too modern or will compromise the home’s overall style. However, replacement windows come in a wide range of styles, from traditional to modern. You can certainly choose windows that look the same or very similar to your current windows. Outfit your windows will grilles, or go without them. Choose thicker wood-finish frames, and thinner, colored ones. Renewal by Andersen will send a trained technician to your home for a free consultation, and during that consultation, they can recommend windows that preserve your home’s style — or update it, if that’s what you prefer.

How Will New Windows Save You Money?

Updating your new windows will save you a lot of money on energy. There are a few ways in which they do this.

• Low-e glass, like SmartSun™ glass, reflects more heat back into your home, rather than letting it escape through the glass.
• New window frame materials, like Fibrex®, are less prone to developing leaks and are also better insulators than old window materials, like wood or aluminum.
• New windows almost always feature double-pane or triple-pane glass, which resists heat transfer much better than single-pane glass.
• New windows lock properly, allowing for less air loss than older windows that may no longer latch or lock properly.

Do You Have to Replace the Window Frames, Too?

In newer homes, you may get away with just replacing the window sash. However, in an older home, you typically want to replace the window frame and the sash. This is known as a full-frame window replacement. The old window frames are probably worn and deteriorated, and if you don’t replace them, your new sashes may not fit securely into the old frames. Replacing the old frames also allows you to correct issues with missing insulation around the window, too, which is a common problem in older homes.

Can You Change Window Styles During Replacement?

Some Cincinnati home owners are not happy with the style of windows they have. For example, you may have casement windows but feel your home would look better with double-hung windows. You can certainly switch window styles when you replace the windows in your older home. Extend one window opening to accommodate a picture window, or replace a sliding window with an awning window for better ventilation. Each window style has its own pros and cons, and replacing your windows gives you the opportunity to capitalize on the benefits that are most important to you.

If you’re thinking of replacing windows on your older Cincinnati home, contact Renewal by Andersen to schedule a free, in-home consultation. We offer numerous window styles and energy-efficient features like low-e glass to ensure you get the most out of your new replacement windows.