When the time comes to replace the windows in your Michigan home, there are a few approaches you can take. Some homeowners opt for inserts, which are replacement window sashes that are nestled inside the existing window frame. Others opt to replace the entire window — including the frame. This approach is known as a full-frame window replacement, and while it is a bit more costly than replacing your windows with inserts, it is usually the better choice in the long run. The following are four major benefits of a full-frame window replacement.
1. New Window Frames Improve Efficiency
Many times, as windows age, they develop cracks and leaks. These cracks and leaks can appear not only in the window sash, but also in the frame. Even a small crack in the frame can reduce your window’s efficiency. So, when you replace the entire window with a full-frame window replacement, your energy bills will go down and your home will stay more comfortable. Old frames made from wood are also simply less efficient than those made from new, more efficient materials like Fibrex®.
2. Today’s Window Materials Require Less Maintenance
If you leave your current window frames in place and just use inserts, you will still have to care for the current window frames. If they are old wooden frames, like the ones we see in many Michigan homes, they will require a lot of maintenance. Without scraping and painting every couple of years, they will deteriorate quickly. Then, you will need to replace your windows again — this time including the frames.
New window frames are often made from higher-quality, lower-maintenance materials. Rather than choosing wood frames, you can go with Fibrex® frames. Fibrex is a wood composite material that looks like wood, but does not require scraping and staining like wood. So, by opting for full-frame window replacement, you save yourself from a lot of maintenance in the coming years.
3. Full-Frame Window Replacement Allows for More Glass Space
Window inserts have a thick border, and they need that border for stability. The downfall of the border is that it takes up space that would otherwise be occupied by glass. When you opt for full window replacement, on the other hand, you preserve more of the glass space. This allows you to enjoy a better view out of the window, and it also allows more sunshine into your home.
4. With a Full-Frame Replacement, You Can Change Your Window Style
If you opt to replace both the sashes and the frames, you can change to a different style of window if you so please. For example, perhaps you have double-hung windows in your living room but you would prefer the convenience of a crank-style casement window. Or maybe you have a casement window against the patio, but you want to replace it with a sliding window. When you choose a full-frame window replacement, your window installation technician can easily work a new window style into your home; this may not be possible with window inserts.
When replacing the windows in your Michigan home, a full-frame replacement is usually your smartest option. To learn more, or to schedule a free, in-home consultation, contact Renewal by Andersen. Our knowledgeable technicians will help you select the best windows for your home and are available to address all of your questions and concerns.
