Copyright ©2024 Markey Windows, Doors, & More
NJ Window Contractor 101
NJ windows serve many functions including protection from the elements, providing a view to the outdoors and providing an aesthetic curb appeal. When it comes to purchasing replacement windows for your NJ home, it is imperative that you are well informed before making any decisions. Windows are a major investment and not all windows are created equal. Infant, windows can drastically vary in appearance and function. Because of this, looking for new NJ windows can be just as exciting as it is overwhelming. Endless window options including various energy efficiencies, modern features, different styles, building materials, aesthetics/curb appeal and costs, there are many things to consider and weigh out. Today, we will be going over some important facts and tips to consider when purchasing NJ windows.
How to Get New Windows
Knowing When to Upgrade
Many times, it can be difficult to know when to upgrade your NJ windows; especially in a newly purchased home. Fortunately, there are some things you can look for that will help guide your decision. If your windows are extremely difficult to open and close or you notice drafts around your windows, you should consider having them inspected or possibly replaced. Unfortunately, homebuilders often neglected to invest in quality windows until very recently. This resulted in many homes with bad windows. However, even if your windows aren’t drafty or difficult to open, improved energy efficiency is a significant reason to upgrade. Depending on how inefficient your currency windows are, you may actually save money in the long run because of your lower energy costs. On average, homeowners save 25-30% on their heating and cooling costs after upgrading their old windows.
When to Repair and When to Replace
The decision about whether to repair or replace windows can be challenging. Just like any home improvement it is important to think about costs and potential savings in the short term as well as over a longer period. The importance of properly maintaining the windows in your home cannot be overstated. That’s because in addition to potentially affecting the value of your property, the condition of your windows can have a significant effect on both how comfortable your home is to live in and how much energy is required to heat and cool your living areas. Unfortunately, diagnosing window problems isn’t always as obvious as it may seem. For example, sometimes windows stick due to paint, heat expansion or a broken handle. Let’s talk about how to identify whether to repair or replace your windows:
Various NJ Window Scenerios
Inspect your windows for any evidence of rot (timber windows) or other damage to the hinges or jambs (the vertical parts that form the side of a window frame). Check if any of the seals are damaged, and if there are any chips in or around the glass. Windows can be damaged by the sun, water and other weather exposure, so check for signs of this. If your windows have any of these faults which are compromising their performance or aesthetic looks (or both), you may wish to consider getting them repaired before any further damage occurs.
Can you open and close your windows? Sounds obvious but sometimes windows stick due to paint, heat expansion or a broken handle. Also, check if there are any noticeable drafts. All of these are signs your windows may need repairing.
On rare occasions you may see condensation between the panes of a glass sealed unit where the seal of the sealed unit have failed. If so, the sealed unit will need to be replaced and this can usually be done quite easily by your window repair company, although they will have to take exact measurements to order a sealed unit specific to size.
Repair or Replace | Consider the Age of Your Home
Older homes – It‘s hard to decide if you should replace windows when they are original features of the house. If your home has stained or leaded glass, then replacing them could reduce the value of your home.
However, the good news is that these days window manufacturers can replicate your stained or leaded glass in energy efficient replacement windows.
If you have a home which is centuries old and listed, then you will need to obtain permission from your local planning officer for any changes. There are specialist glass suppliers who can locate such replicas of centuries-old glass if pieces are damaged.
How to Choose the Right Windows for Your Home
There are many different window options available to consumers and it can easily become overwhelming if you don’t know what you are looking for. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be that complicated! Although we cannot make a decision for you, there are definitely some thing to keep in mind as you shop around and consider your options.
Price DOES NOT indicate performance
Among double-hung clad wood windows, a pricey and bottom-rated window from Andersen, $500, wasn’t good at keeping out cold air and was so-so at keeping out rain. A $450 Kolbe vinyl double-hung was impressive, but a top-rated $260 Simonton was even better. All of the casement windows aced all tests. Prices varied by frame material; the top-scoring American Craftsman vinyl window, $260, is the least expensive casement. All prices are for a 3×5-foot window.
Windows Should be Made for the New Jersey Climate
Look at the overall scores in our window Ratings, then zero in on test results that apply to the New Jersey area. If you are looking to move to another region make sure to take not of the weather patterns. For example, if your home is exposed to high winds and cold temperatures, look for windows that were excellent at low-temperature wind resistance.
Don’t Spend too Much of Extraneous Options
Upgrades can easily add 50 percent or more to the base cost of a window. Focus on features that add value. Double-hung window sashes that tilt in make cleaning easier, and full screens allow optimum airflow when the top window is lowered and bottom window raised. Finer meshed screens let more light through and do not obscure the view as much as standard screens.
Different Types of Windows
There are four main types of replacement NJ windows available. Each one has its own pros and cons. Lets take a closer look at these types of windows:
Aluminum
While these windows are inexpensive, they’re increasingly less popular because of their lower energy efficiency. You cannot make aluminum windows as energy efficient as other products in today’s market. This is because aluminum doesn’t insulate against the heat or cold very well. Aluminum also doesn’t provide a good sound barrier, although features like dual panes of glass with different thicknesses—to muffle the sound of multiple frequencies—can improve acoustical performance.
Wood
Typically a visually pleasing choice, wood windows are some of the aesthetically appealing windows on the market. The cons however, are the limitations and costs. After about ten years of being exposed to the elements and sitting in the trim of a slowly settling house, a wood window probably won’t perform as well as one made of a more robust synthetic material.
Fiberglass
Made of glass-reinforced plastic, fiberglass windows have so far proven to be very durable. However, because they are a relatively new product, fiberglass windows are costly and untested in the long-term. Fiberglass windows can cost as much as wood windows and unless you live in a very hot climate, they will last a very long time. New Jersey is a great place for fiberglass windows.
Vinyl
Resilient, energy efficient, and economical, these windows appeal to many practical-minded homeowners. One potential drawback is that vinyl windows are sometimes made with bulkier frames in order to increase their strength. As a result, homeowners may notice that the size of their window panes has been reduced after installing certain kinds of vinyl replacement windows.
What to Look for in a NJ Window Contractor
Once you understand what you are looking for, it’s time to find a NJ Window Contractor. If you don’t have any experience with hiring contractors – and specifically a NJ window contractor – then the thought of vetting your options may be overwhelming. Let’s take a look at some things to look for in your.
Ensure They Have Proper Insurance
One of the first things you should always do when considering a contractor – whether it’s for windows, siding, or anything in between – is ask about insurance and accreditation. Start by inquiring about comprehensive liability insurance. A contractor should be able to immediately provide you with their contractor’s certificates and proof of insurance. If they refuse to give you this information or blow it off as unimportant, then chances are, you’re working with someone who isn’t insured. The reason insurance matters so much is because you could actually be held responsible for a slip, fall, or other injury that happens on your property if the contractor doesn’t have a policy in place. This isn’t a position you want to find yourself in and could end up costing you well more than any window replacements ever would have. But insurance, on its own, isn’t enough. You also want to verify that the contractor is licensed by the state and/or city where you’re located. Not every state requires licensure, but most do. In order to become licensed, contractors must take examinations and continue their education. If nothing else, this should put your mind at ease that you aren’t just getting some guy walking off the street.
Look for References and Referrals
Getting licensed and insured takes time – and some basic working knowledge of window replacement processes – but setting up a business isn’t rocket science. Thus, it’s possible for licensed and insured window replacement contractors to perform low-quality work. This is where the significance of references and referrals comes into play. Most contractors will list customer testimonials on their website or provide you with a list of references to review on your own time. While these are great, you also want to do some digging on your own. What do other customers – those not touted by the contractor – say about their work? Speak with neighbors, co-workers, friends, and family members who’ve had their windows replaced in the last couple of years. Who do they recommend?
Experience is Key
Experience is good, but local experience is better. While a new contractor in the area may not be bad, you should be skeptical about working with contractors who don’t have a history of work in your city or state. When contractors have years of experience in one area, this speaks to the quality of work they perform and the respect they have with customers. If they perform shoddy work, they would have been run out of business already.
Look for a Window Contractor that Prioritizes Transparency
Part of exceptional customer service is open and honest communication, from getting an accurate quote and sticking to timelines to returning all of your phone calls. If something goes wrong, a reputable contractor should be up front with you, and be willing to discuss all of your options with you. Find a company that lets you know exactly what you’re going to have to cover – regardless of the bumps that may occur along the way. This way, you will not be surprised by additional bills, charges, or fees.
Looking for a Trustworthy Contractor?
If you are looking for the most trusted and qualified NJ windows, give Markey LLC a call today! Markey LLC has become known for the high quality work over the past 25 years. With a focus on hard work and integrity, the customers needs and satisfaction always comes first. We are ready to provide you with the highest quality NJ replacement windows at the most affordable prices! We do Union County replacement windows, Somerset County windows, Hunterdon County windows, Somerset County windows and much more! All of our employees are factory certified and Markey LLC never subcontracts work. For more information, contact today at 908-722-8958 or visit the local showroom!