Our windows provide a long list of benefits, as long as they are properly installed. They ensure ideal ventilation, limit heat transfer, beautify our homes, and can become highly effective burglar deterrents. Nonetheless, incorrect installations always reduce the lifespan of any type of window by exposing it to water damage.

DIY project vs. Professional installations

So the question is: should you conduct a DIY project or should you go in favor of a decently priced professional window installation service? The final choice is up to you. Note that window installation is a relatively complex, lengthy process that requires special tools, patience, some skill, and lots of time.

You’ll need to use a utility knife, a 20-ounce hammer, two different levels, a caulk gun, measuring tape, and a hammer-tacker. You’ll also have to do a lot of measuring and purchase a long list of materials, including the window, caulk, roofing nails, foam insulation, waterproof membrane, and metal flashing.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Window?

A DIY project of this kind would involve expenses ranging from $30 to $50, if you have already purchased all the necessary tools and the new window. A professional window installation service might cost you a bit more, but the professionals do guarantee flawless results and let you focus on much more important problems.

For one window, total costs associated with materials and supplies are estimated at $25. Moreover, window labor is priced at $165 per window, and the average mid-grade window cost ranges from $244 to $282. After doing the math, one could easily reach the conclusion that the total cost to install one window is $472.52, on average.

Ask an Expert

Looking for the best window installation service? When in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult different window replacement specialists who operate in your area. Find the best ones by relying on TalkLocal, your one and only connection to the right professionals, right now.

A falling branch, a rock, or a baseball can destroy your window pane in the blink of an eye. In this case, the best solution is to opt for professional repairs and installations, ensured by skilled experts from the nearest glass shop. However, those who would rather fix this issue on their own can choose to conduct a relatively simple, inexpensive, DIY window pane replacement.

What Do I Need to Get Started?

To complete this project, you’ll need aluminum foil, exterior primer, glazing putty, glazier’s points, and basic tools, including a heat gun, a paint brush, a putty knife, and a painter’s tool.

How to Replace your Broken Window Pane

If you think you have what it takes to get a window pane replacement done without any help from a specialist, follow these simple guidelines to come up with excellent results.

1) Remove any old, deteriorated putty.

2) Gently take out your window sash and place it on a clean, flat surface.

3) Wear safety glasses and protection gloves and use a rag to cover the damaged glass surface.

4) Remove any pieces of broken glass that may still be embedded in your old putty fragments.

5) Use a painter’s tool to remove any loose putty pieces.

6) Sand and scrape window rabbets, then apply a primer to the bare wood to prolong the lifespan of the new putty.

7) Fill the rabbets with new, malleable, heated putty.

8) Place the new window pane on the putty and apply moderate pressure with your fingertips.

Opt for Professional Services

If you can’t carry out your own window pane replacement, pay the right price for professional services brought to you by the best window replacement experts in your area. Connect with the most competent specialists with TalkLocal, a free service designed to address all your daily needs and concerns.

If you’re planning to install storm window screens on your house, consider using storm windows made of aluminum. They are more affordable and offer the same benefits as other more expensive options. Aluminum storm windows screens are incredibly weather resistant. The material is very low maintenance, never needs paint, and offers great resistance to moisture, rotting, and warping.

Other Benefits of Aluminum Storm Windows Include…

– Improve energy efficiency by reducing air leakage to and from the home.

– Reduce heating and cooling costs

– Reduce noise dramatically

– Increase security because of durability

– Protect existing windows

– UV protection

Installation Steps

With so many benefits, installing this type of window does make a lot of sense. Here’s how to install aluminum storm windows screens:

1. Identify the style of your window casing. A western window casing has a blind stop, which is a recessed strip of wood that allows the storm window frame to rest flush with the exterior of the casing. An eastern window casing doesn’t have this stop, but instead overlaps with the window and is attached to it.

2. Get measurements. Measure the casing horizontally between the inside edges at the top, center, and bottom. Then, measure vertically at the middle and also along each side. For a western style casing, the storm window must be ¼ inch narrower and shorter than the opening of the casing. For an eastern casing, the window needs to be 5/8 inch taller and a minimum of 1 ¼ inches wider than the casing.

3. Caulk the window to weatherproof. Apply caulk (elastomeric or butyl) where the storm window and casing will make contact. Install the storm window screen before the caulk material dries.

4. Position the storm window. If you have a western casing, let the bottom edge of the storm window sit on the windowsill and then fit it into place up the casing. With an eastern casing, carefully and equally overlap the side fins of the storm window with the casing. Screw the top fin’s middle hole into place.

5. Attach the storm window. Screw the window into the casing starting from the screw holes at the bottom all the way up and around the edges, ensuring the storm window is installed straight and square.

6. Inspect the installation. Check the screen and sliding panes to make sure they open without any problems.

7. Make escape holes. To prevent condensation, drill small holes along the bottom of the window frame to let moisture escape from the space between the storm window and the primary window.

Get Expert Help

If you don’t have the time to do the steps above, trust TalkLocal to find the right person to install your aluminum storm windows screens for you. We’re experts at searching out local service professionals. Submit your request now!

If you want to replace your old, ugly, inefficient windows with newer ones, it is advisable to get some window estimates and hire a skilled window replacement contractor. A contractor will provide you with professional services and expert advice throughout the entire process.

How Could a Window Replacement Contractor Help Me?

Recent studies suggest that homeowners who choose to install their own windows benefit from financial savings of up to $100 per window. However, it goes without saying that not all families know which types of windows are actually more suitable for their properties and which are a waste of money.

To simplify your decision-making process, hire a contractor offering you realistic window estimates. The best specialists could guide you towards Energy Star-rated products, enabling you to profit from considerable federal, state, and utility company incentives.

Things That You Should Know about Window Replacement

If you want to replace all the windows on your property, be ready to spend anywhere from $2,000 to $7,000 on this project. furthermore, if you require additional structural repairs and interior remodeling work, most contractors will charge you extra, making you invest up to $12,000 in this home improvement assignment.

There are various popular categories of windows, including single-hung and double-hung models, sliding windows, casement windows, glass block windows, and so on. To find the best types of windows for your home and budget, consult the online catalogs of some of the most reputable manufacturers.

By simply entering your ZIP code you can get accurate info on price and availability. The average costs of all materials required by this project range from $239 to $289 per window.

Consult an Expert

Want to get the most accurate window estimates? In this case, discuss your options with a competent window replacement expert in your area. Find the best one with help from TalkLocal, a free service introduced to simplify your daily life by connecting you with the professionals you need, when you need them

A cost-effective and simple way to improve the efficiency of your old, single-pane windows is to add Lowes storm windows. They are designed to minimize the air flow from outside into your home. Also, the airspace created between the primary window and the storm window serves as extra insulation.

Lowes storm windows are for exterior application and are mounted to the outside of your home’s existing windows. While they are not replacement windows, many people use storm windows as an economical substitute for replacement windows.

Shopping Options

When shopping for Lowes storm windows, you’ll have two brand names to choose from – Comfort-Bilt and Larson. Both manufacture storm windows with aluminum frames, but in different configurations, from one-track to three-track. Larson makes Low-E aluminum storm windows, while Comfort-Bilt manufactures single-glazed windows.

Window Styles and Buying Tips

Single-track – Also known as a basement storm window, this type has only one glass pane that is held in place by thumb clasps. Choose a basement window with removable glass (for easier cleaning) and a built-in insect screen to keep bugs out when you remove the glass pane.

Two-track – Meant to be used with double-hung windows, the bottom half of the outer track features a screen, while the top has a glass pane. Neither component can be moved up or down. It’s the inside glass pane contained in the inside track which can be slid up to let fresh air in through the screen. Look for two-track Lowes storm windows with ventilation stops that can be adjusted on the inside track.

Three-track – These windows are also designed to be used with double-hung windows. In this configuration, there are two half screens and windowpanes that sit in separate tracks to allow each sash to be moved independently. Both bottom screens can also be moved to the top and the top glass panes moved down. If this is your choice, you should opt for windows with removable panes and screens for easy cleaning.

What is Low E-Glass?

Low-E or Low-emissive glass makes storm windows more energy efficient. Their surface has undergone treatment with an invisible coating of metallic oxide that allows light to pass through while reflecting heat. Low-E storm windows reduce energy use, prevent fabric from fading, and improve the comfort of a home.

Need New Windows?

Remember to measure your windows accurately before you make any purchase. Once you’ve ordered your windows, it’s time to call the pros to ensure they are installed the right way. We can help your search for qualified contractors. Contact TalkLocal now and get in touch with three local window professionals in no time. Best of all, we’re free!

Good windows are vital to any home. Windows provide air and sunlight, things we all need for a healthy living environment. Window installation cost is computed by the amount of materials used, the placement of the windows, and the labor involved in installing your windows.

Some window installations, such as vinyl windows, cost less than standard windows to install. Average service costs vary for different areas, but there is a range that can be given as a guide to approximately how much you should set aside for window installation cost.

Average Window Installation Cost

In general, the average window installation labor cost ranges from $85.07 to $164.71 per window. This depends on where you live and how accessible your house is to the person installing your windows. The further your house is from the service center, the more you will end up paying.

Additionally, if the materials that they need to have shipped to your house are far from the source, the costs will definitely rise. There are many factors to consider when installing new or replacement windows, and the labor cost is just one of them.

Saving with Labor Costs

If you decide to install windows, it may be a better idea for you to buy the windows and hire an independent contractor to install them.

Salesmen in home improvement companies often have a 30% commission on top of their sales, and this tends to increase the installation cost. Hiring independent contractors will help you save money on window installation cost.

Of course, if you are the sort of person who’s handy about the home, you may fancy taking on the installation yourself, which will save you a great deal more.

Need Help?

Contact TalkLocal today and let us help find a window installation expert near you! We will assist at any time of the day to bring an expert closer to you!

These days, one could easily find a generous selection of storm windows on the market, designed to match all budgets and preferences. Despite the fact that high-quality storm windows launched by respectable manufacturers are relatively inexpensive and widely available, numerous homeowners choose to create their very own models. Are do it yourself storm windows a viable alternative worth your time and money? Keep reading to find out.

How to Create Your Own Storm Windows

If you want to create your own storm windows, start by gathering all the tools and materials required for this job. You will need sandpaper, a screwdriver, a saw, a sharp knife, tape, weather strip films, and a wooden frame.

There are numerous methods that you can apply to come up with excellent results. Would you choose to have a rustic wooden window, or would you rather design a modern-looking one, based on plexiglass, in less than 5 minutes?

Check out a few online tutorials and try to identify the right type of DIY storm windows for you.

The Benefits of DIY Storm Windows

Undoubtedly, do it yourself storm windows are an excellent choice if your budget is limited. A standard storm window manufactured using quality materials can cost you less than $10 and you can probably build it in less than 60 minutes.

The energy savings that it will eventually deliver depend on two factors: the type of fuel that you use to heat your home and the type of primary windows that you have. In case your house has good single-pane windows, you could benefit from annual energy savings estimated at $200 if you use electricity, $135 of you use oil, and almost $70 if you use fire logs.

Moreover, this means that your investment would pay for itself in less than one year.  In addition, do it yourself storm windows made by a skilled homeowner could very well last for an entire decade.

Ask an Expert

Are do it yourself storm windows really suitable for your property? Find the best answer to this question by contacting a window replacement expert. Use TalkLocal, a free service, to connect with A-list professionals who live and work in your area.

Numerous homeowners choose to invest in durable storm windows for a number of reasons. First of all, they are cheaper than most replacement windows. Secondly, they manage to block up to 99.9% of harmful UV rays from coming into your home.

Moreover, they require little maintenance, look good, and wear well for more than half a century. Storm windows also reduce exterior noise levels and minimize heat loss. When it comes to making a storm window repair, DIY projects and professional services are two viable options to get it done on time and on a budget.

Performing a DIY Storm Window Repair

You only need moderate DIY skills and a basic set of tools to carry out a basic storm window repair on your own. For example, if you are faced at some point with loose windows making a rattling noise. This problem can be easily addressed, by simply removing your old window clips or turn buttons. Fill the empty space with high-quality wood putty, wait a few minutes and then reinstall the clips with a screwdriver.

Furthermore, many people complain about the fact that the glass surface of their storm windows has deteriorated. This is a major problem that impacts your level of comfort and lowers the energy-efficiency of your home.

If you want a quick fix, make sure the glazier’s points, those tiny nails located around the sheet of glass, are still in place.  Next, replace the damaged glazing using a brand-new, high-quality glazing compound, which should be evenly distributed on the entire surface with a putty knife.

Rely on an Expert

If your storm windows are old and have deteriorated, a quick fix might not be the most suitable option. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced window replacement specialist, offering you affordable services, inspections, maintenance programs, and up-front estimates over the phone.

Consult Talk Local to identify the best professionals in your area in record time. TalkLocal offers you the opportunity to simplify your daily life, by connecting you with well-trained, qualified experts who spare no efforts to keep you satisfied in the long term.

High-quality storm window replacement represents an excellent investment, because storm windows deliver considerable savings and improve the energy-efficiency of your home. They also protect your primary windows, reduce exterior noise levels, provide additional insulation, and boost the curb appeal of your property.

Storm windows are durable and require very little maintenance, aside from some simple repairs once in a while. But what happens when you neglect minor issues, or otherwise end up with more serious repair requirements? In this case, a storm window replacement project can become a real necessity.

Should I Replace or Repair My Old Storm Windows?

Most homeowners choose a quick fix every time they are forced to deal with a defective storm window. Minor problems, like a loose window or deteriorated glazing, can be easily addressed by the homeowner. However, if your storm windows are in a condition beyond repair, then storm window replacement may be your one and only option.

All in all, keep in mind that experts advise us to replace all of our windows every 25 years or so. Older storm windows are less efficient when it comes to preserving an ideal temperature inside our homes.

Major Problems Forcing You to Replace Your Storm Windows

Almost any type of storm window can be fixed, but not all repair projects are worth your time and money; some of them may actually fail to deliver anything but short term results. Here are a few major problems that will eventually compel you to consider storm window replacement:

1) Rot: Once your storm windows start to rot, it becomes difficult for you to restore them. When you’re dealing with rotten wood, the best thing you can do is to order new storm windows.

2) Hard-to-find spare parts: If you have an older model of storm window, you might waste a lot of time trying to find spare parts online or in hardware stores.

3) Rusty or filthy crank mechanisms: If your storm windows display rusty or excessively dirty crank mechanisms, it might be a little too late for you to try lubricating them. Take the easy way out and buy energy-efficient, modern substitutes.

Ask an Expert

Should you replace or fix your storm windows? Only an expert can provide the best answer to your question. Contact the best ones in your area by consulting TalkLocal, your #1 connection to the best professionals in your area.

A  low-maintenance, energy-efficient vinyl windows installation is always an excellent idea, especially if you want to improve the curb appeal of your house and benefit from energy savings at the same time. You could choose to conduct this relatively simple home improvement on your own, or with help from a team of window replacement experts operating in your area.

Why Should I Install Vinyl Windows?

Vinyl windows are durable, versatile, incredibly resistant, low-maintenance, and among the most energy-efficient windows on the market. They also block up to 85% of UV rays. Most of these products come with a lifetime warranty and are available in a range of styles and colors; so you shouldn’t have a hard time trying to identify the right windows for your home. Moreover, vinyl windows do not rot, peel, crack, splinter, or split; they display a solid construction and represent a smart investment in the long term.

Should I Opt for Professional Services or for a DIY Project?

A DIY project can cost you up to $500. You’ll need a hammer, a utility knife, pliers, a paint scraper, a caulk gun, safety glasses, gloves, a screwdriver, and a drill bit. Measure the window opening more than once to make sure you install the right size vinyl window. Would you prefer to avoid this hassle?

By utilizing professional services, you have the certainty that each installation is conducted by experienced installers who offer you aesthetically pleasing results and an extended workmanship warranty.

How Much Should I Pay for a Professional Vinyl Windows Installation?

In theory, you could save some money by opting for a DIY approach. However, window replacement requires special tools and skills and a considerable amount of time. Specialists can complete this assignment in a matter of a few hours, to your complete satisfaction. If you’re going for a whole-house window installation project, be prepared to invest at least $10,000.

Need New Windows?

If you want to make the most of professional, cost and time-effective vinyl windows installation, take the easy way out and contact a window replacement specialist operating in your area. Choose the best one after consulting TalkLocal, your direct connection to the right professionals, right now.