Should a new homeowner worry about replacement windows so soon? Read on to discover the answer to this question and more.

3. PART 1: WHAT ARE REPLACEMENT WINDOWS?
Buying a home is a serious step that involves personal decisions,
financial commitment, and candid talks with your real estate agent.
There are many milestones before you finally settle in and enjoy a
quiet night in your new home. Even after you’ve officially moved
in, the work may not stop there. Windows, for instance, can start to
showsignsofwearoncetheygetpastthe10-yearmark.Butbecause
window problems aren’t always easy to spot, not all homebuyers
notice their condition during their walk-throughs. After move-
in, you may find that the windows in your new home aren’t in the
condition you expected.
You can have your windows repaired if the damage is minimal and
most of the parts are still in relatively good condition. But if the
windows are old and the damage extensive, replacements are the
better option.

4. PART 1: WHAT ARE REPLACEMENT WINDOWS?
Replacement Window vs. New Window
The term “replacement window” seems self-explanatory in that it
refers to a window that’s installed to replace a damaged or worn-
out unit. However, contractors make a distinction between a
replacement window and a“new construction window”.
A replacement window is meant to fit in an existing window
opening and doesn’t require the removal of exterior materials.
A new construction window, on the other hand, must be nailed
into the framing of the home. The latter is used in new house
construction, home additions and when a window needs to be
replaced completely, frame and all. A retrofit window is smaller and
easier to install and, for these reasons, much cheaper.
In Part Two of this e-book, we’ll find out why you may need
replacement windows and how to tell when it’s time to pull the plug
on your old ones.

6. The question of replacement windows isn’t one that all homebuyers
need to worry about. Barring extreme cases, it’s an automatic “no”
if you bought new construction or if the previous homeowner had
them replaced before the property went up for sale.
If the answer isn’t obvious, how do you know if you need new
windows? If you’re new to the house, you won’t be able to tell if
the electric bill is unusually high or if the windows are going to be
a pain to maintain. For a new homeowner, these are some of the
signs that say“yes”:
- There are water stains around the windows.
- Parts of the windows are rotting.
- The windows stick or won’t stay open.
- The old windows have single-pane glass.
- You can hear too much outside noise indoors.
- The existing wallpaper, interior paint, or flooring looks
prematurely faded.
Having windows replaced so soon after you’ve purchased a house
isn’t easy on the pocket, but it will save you money throughout your
stay and add to the property’s overall value.
PART 2: DO YOU NEED REPLACEMENT WINDOWS?

7. The “Replacement Windows Pay for Themselves” Debate
This is a point of contention for many. Some contractors claim you
can recoup the cost of replacement windows in as little as three to
five years, which may sound too good to be true. But...
So going back to the question of whether or not you need
replacement windows, we’ll add a third “no” scenario: if you don’t
know for a fact that you’ll be living in the house for at least five
years, it may be wise to pass on the project. Keep in mind, however,
that the recoup dynamics can be quite different once you factor in
potential resale value.
If you think that replacement windows are a definite go, stick
around for Part Three, where we’ll talk about how to choose the
right contractor for the job.
PART 2: DO YOU NEED REPLACEMENT WINDOWS?

9. So it’s time to retire your old windows and get replacements,
but you’re not sure how to go about it. You’re not alone. Many
homeowners have no idea where to start or whom to consult once
they realize their windows are nearing the end of their service life.
Call a Professional
When you start searching for contractors offering window
replacement services, you’re bound to encounter two types of
companies. First is the small to mid-size local business certified to
installaspecificbrandofwindows.Secondisthelargemanufacturer
operating multiple locations nationwide.
Below is a list of things you’ll want to do before making a hiring
decision:
- Do some research to to get an idea of the average cost of
replacement windows where you live.
- Don’t commit to a price just yet. Sit on it and see if you can
negotiate a lower price with the candidate contractor.
- Ask to see proof of manufacturer certifications, state licenses,
trade association memberships, and other credentials
mentioned on their website.
- Check to see if the contractor is fully insured and bonded.
- Ask for references and make an effort to check up on them.
- Ask if they conduct regular trainings.
PART 3: WHO SHOULD REPLACE YOUR WINDOWS?

10. Thislistisnowherenearall-inclusive.You’llalsowanttoaskquestions
aboutmaterials,warranties,scheduling,andpaymentandfinancing,
to name a few. But the care you put into hiring will pay off in the
form of value and quality.
Ifyoudotheinitiallegwork,you’llbeabletofindandhireanexcellent
window replacement company. Then you can just sit back and let
them do the job for you while you enjoy the peace of mind that
comes from knowing that you’re in good hands.
PART 3: WHO SHOULD REPLACE YOUR WINDOWS?

11. Renewal by Andersen
of San Francisco
30800 Santana Street Hayward,
CA 94544
(510)-263-3210
TheBayAreaWindow.com