What to consider before replacing your windows

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If you can’t shut your windows or lock them, they may need to be repaired or replaced. You should know that window repair projects usually start at $200 and go up depending on the jobs needed. The exact price depends on the broken part of the window, the size, and the window type. Replacing a window is more expensive, The average window replacement cost is between $400 and $1,000 per window with most homeowners spending $403 to $631 on average. Replacements are generally done in one day, whereas repairs usually take a few days.

So if you’re considering replacement, here’s what to think about:

1) Are you repairing or replacing?

Options include: repairing only minor damage such as small cracks; consolidating multiple panes of glass with tempered glass; adding energy-efficient glazing film to old single-pane windows; and replacing the entire window with new vinyl, wood, fiberglass or aluminum units.

2) Do you want to repair or replace?

Replacement costs twice as much as a great repair job done by a good DIYer. If you’re considering replacement, make sure you can do it yourself or hire a good local contractor who specializes in windows. Hardy Windows is the right choice for Replacement Windows.

3) Are your existing windows energy efficient?  The latest R-value window ratings give an accurate measure of insulation value, so choose low-E coated glass if your house is tightly sealed against air conditioning bills. Otherwise, go with double-paned windows that have been treated with low-E coatings on both sides.

4) What is your budget?

Window replacements generally run $400 to $1000 per window, depending on the size and type of window, as well as installation costs. You can buy windows online or at a local window retailer. For a local option, Hardy Windows installs high quality Replacement Windows in the So Cal area. Consult with one of our window experts to find out which type of replacement windows would be right for your home and style preferences. Hardy Windows has been around since 1989 and continues to provide energy-efficiency, comfort, durability and beautiful windows and doors.

5) Are you replacing old single-pane windows?

If so, make sure you know which kind of glass performs best in your area. It’s not unusual for an average summer cooling bill to go over $500, so surely you’ll want the best within your budget. Hardy installs Replacement Windows that feature considerable energy savings and noise reduction for homes in Southern California.

6) Is your former window uneven? Or does it have broken or missing panes of glass?

If so, it’s probably not worth repairing. There are just too many problems that need immediate attention from someone who knows what they’re doing.

7) Is your window drafty?

A window’s ability to stop air infiltration is often more important than its ability to block heat loss. Heat naturally flows from warm areas to cold ones, so consider double-paned windows with gas fill or low-E coatings that reflect heat back into Hardy Hardy houses during cold winter months. Hardy installs Replacement Windows for any style home, including traditional vinyl replacement windows , wood replacement windows , fiberglass replacement windows and aluminum clad wood windows.

Give us a call today to learn more. (714) 996-1807

Tips for Buying New Doors

Top Tips for Buying New Doors

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Nothing pumps up your home’s curb appeal like some new doors. Whether you’re looking to sell, want to maximize your comfort, or just want to keep those energy bills as low as possible, these tips will help you get the most from your door-buying experience. 

 

Know the Lingo

When you contact a representative about what you’re looking for, it will be beneficial if you can use the right terms and definitions. For instance, “outswing” refers to a door that opens outward, while “inswing” refers to one that opens into the home. You should also be able to identify the molding, casing, and trim around your door and whether or not you want a right-handed or left-handed hinge. The faster you can point our team in the right direction, the better the chance we can get you exactly what you want. 

 

Look for Wear and Tear

There are lots of reasons to want a replacement door, and they aren’t all related to aesthetics. For instance, you should check all of your doors regularly for warping, cracks, scratches, or rotting. If you find any, you might also want to hire an inspector to see if this damage goes beyond the door itself! Another thing to test is whether or not your outside doors are properly sealing. A good way to do this is by holding a lit lighter to the frame. If the flame moves, you’re might be losing big money in energy costs. 

 

Don’t Forget the Storm Doors

There’s nothing quite like a big beautiful exterior door, so it’s a good idea to protect your investment from the elements. A good storm door can create a barrier between your new door and damaging wind, water, hail, and snow. It also provides an added layer of insulation, which can keep your HVAC from working overtime in extreme weather. There are dozens of options for storm doors, most of which are a great aesthetic complement to your home. 

 

Entry Doors are a Big Selling Point

Speaking of entry doors, it’s important to remember that your front door is essentially the “face” of your home. Of course, no two faces are (or should be) perfectly alike. Take some time and decide which sort of entry door will fit your property best. Wood doors are heavy and durable, but they can be costly and subject to warping and rot. Steel doors are resistant to breakage and help maximize energy efficiency. However, they can be easily scratched or dented, which ruins the overall look. Fiberglass, on the other hand, is considered the best combination of the two. It’s also extremely energy efficient!

 

Everyone Loves a Great Patio Door

 

The entry door may be the most important, but entire homes have been sold based on the back patio alone. So if you’ve invested some money into your deck space, don’t allow it to go to waste by purchasing a low-quality patio door.  Sliding doors are very popular as they can help maximize space both inside and out. Swinging doors are more secure, however, and can offer a bit more privacy as they don’t have to be made of glass. French doors are highly prized by home buyers and are a stunning addition to any space. Just prepare to pay top dollar for them!

 

Conclusion

No matter what sort of doors you’re looking for, it’s important that you have someone on your side who can help you make the right choices for the right price. At Hardy Windows, we have over 30 years of experience providing Orange County customers with amazing door and window services. For repairs, installations, and accessories done right, come to Hardy Windows. 

New Windows

New Windows For a Hot So Cal Fall

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It’s fall in Southern California and the weather is starting to heat up. There are many homeowners that have had their homes remodeled during this time of year, but they may not have considered the windows as a project on their to do list.  Here are some ideas for why you might want to consider new windows if your home is getting toasty inside. 

  • extreme fall temperatures, both hot and cold
  • energy efficiency 
  • improving your property value.

Hot, hot, hot and then cold…

Is someone in your home always complaining that it’s too hot or too cold? Ever feel like the gaps in your old windows are a money sucking bottomless pit? 

A great reason to consider new windows is the energy efficiency they provide. If it’s been getting warmer inside during this time of year, or if it seems like your air conditioning bill has gone up significantly since last fall, chances are good that your old single pane windows aren’t offering you the kind of insulation that they used to. Replacing them with double pane windows can help reduce your energy bill while also giving you more comfort during this time of year.

Energy Efficient Windows

Did you know that window glass is the single most important factor in determining a window’s energy efficiency?  To find out how much money you could save with energy efficient windows, enter your zip code at www.energystar.gov/savings 

Curb Appeal

Lastly, if you’re looking for a project or just something new in general it’s always fun to try out different styles and see what works best for your home. Not only can you change up how it looks inside, but your windows are also an important part of the overall structure and increase your property value so replacing them will ensure that they’re not letting any drafts in or out during this time of year. New windows are a great way to improve curb appeal if you’re trying to sell it or improve your home’s interior aesthetic. With many styles ranging from modern double hungs for new construction homes all the way to casement windows, you will surely find a style that works for your home.

You might be surprised at just how affordable new replacement windows can be. In the long run, the cost of home improvements will help you save money in energy bills, improve your family’s comfort and make your home more appealing to future buyers. Make it a priority to take care of your home and enjoy an improved look during this time of year by replacing old windows with new ones from Hardy Windows today!