There are three solutions to window problems: conceal it, repair it, or replace it. There are many different types of windows that make up the construction of your house. Windows allow natural light to flood your rooms during the day and let in air to keep them fresh and dry. Your windows also help define the style of your house whether it is traditional or modern. You can customize nearly any window to suit your changing tastes and needs.
Note: Home Improvement gift cards are good for purchasing window treatments, window fixes, and the window itself. Gift cards can be used in a variety of stores or operate like a Visa. Gift cards are issued under the following:
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Conceal it –
To hide a bad window view use sheer curtains. They allow light to come into your home but block out much of the view. Some sheers are sheerer than others, so you will need to test the sheer curtains in your home to ensure it blocks out the correct amount of view for your situation.
You can also get window film for your windows that are translucent. Translucent window film will allow the light to come in while blocking much of the view. There is a plain white window film as well as patterned and colored window film available at most large home improvement stores.
You can replace the glass in your trouble window with glass that is more translucent, textured, or art glass.
You can use more distorted antique-looking glass, patterned glass, frosted glass, or whatever glass texture you can dream of.
You can block only the bottom part of your window from the bad view (about 5 feet off the floor and below) while allowing light to come through the top part.
You can block the windows using opaque curtains, shutters, furniture, a screen, or any of the methods listed above. Also, you can cover your windows with an object that is translucent or something that covers about 50% of the view. Such items include a stained glass window, a large translucent object (like a vase), or a large plant.
Add landscaping to cover the bad view if you have an outdoor area outside that window.
You can plant a tree in the ground or in a pot, use vines on a trellis, use an empty trellis or pergola, plant fast-growing shrubs to create a hedge, plant fast-growing bamboo in a rectangular pot to create a screen, or use any other tall evergreen landscaping that will screen the bad view in during the summer as well as the winter.
Repair it –
Window Maintenance
Protect your investment with regular maintenance. Taking steps to maintain your windows will help to ensure that they last longer. Here are some simple ways to clean and maintain your windows:
- Vacuum debris from the windowsill or track prior to washing
- Use a mixture of mild dish soap and water to clean window frames on a regular basis
- Keep the windowsill or track area clean of soil or debris to encourage proper draining
- Regularly clean windows from the inside and outside of your home
Sometimes it’s possible to repair a window rather than replace it, even if it’s damaged. If your windows only need new weather stripping or hardware, a repair is likely to be an effective and less costly option. Repairing your windows may likely be sufficient if you’re dealing with the following:
- Worn-down appearance: Harsh weather can lead to normal wear and tear on the exterior of your windows, including chipped paint on the window frame. This can usually be a simple fix involving sanding and repainting the frame to perk up the exterior of your home.
- Dirty or streaked glass: Cleaning your windows is typically an easy process unless your windows are too high off the ground for you to safely access them. In that case, there are many professional cleaning services that specialize in home window cleaning, which could be the best option. If you have double-pane windows, take notice of any moisture or cloudiness between the panes of glass. This could be a sign of a larger issue that may require a replacement.
- Insignificant hardware problems: Are your windows becoming difficult to open and close? If so, it could be the hardware that needs some attention. Check to see if there is a buildup of dirt, grease or debris inside the window track. Thorough cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap may be enough to fix the problem. Store-bought hardware lubricants can also help to make your windows easier to operate.
Replace it –
How Long Do Windows Last?
Even the best quality windows won’t last forever and double-glazed windows will last (on average) for around 15 – 20 years. This is obviously impacted by several factors such as how well they are maintained, the weather they have to withstand, and the type of frame material you choose.
Some window suppliers offer a guarantee on their products which means they will replace faults for free during that time. However, when windows are beyond repair you need to replace them sooner rather than later.
7 Signs You Need New Windows
- Windows are Worn Out– Signs of rot or warping on your windows or that the double glazing is failing are big indicators that you need to replace them. Poor-quality windows may discolor over time and as they expand in heat they can become warped. If your double glazing is failing you may notice water leaks, condensation, cracks, chips, holes and scratches and difficulty regulating the temperature in your home
- Energy Bills are High – Old or inefficient windows can have a significant impact on your home’s insulation and can lead to high energy bills. The more heat that is able to escape your home the more you will be using your central heating to compensate, and the same is true of using air conditioning. Older windows are often single-paned and therefore more vulnerable to leaks. It’s a very good idea to invest in double glazing with argon gas and low-emissivity (LoE) glass to reduce heat loss.
- Windows are Difficult (or Impossible) to Open and Close – This is one definite reason to replace the window, primarily because it could be a vital escape route in the event of an emergency.
- Windows Aren’t Soundproofing Your Home – Modern windows are designed to reduce sound transfer which can make a huge difference to your quality of life if you live near a busy road. If you can clearly hear noise from outside when you stand inside and the window is shut, this is probably an indicator that your window is quite old. So, if you want to enjoy peace and quiet, new is the way to go. You can learn more about the best windows for noise reduction here.
- Windows are Drafty – Drafts can often occur when the window doesn’t shut properly. If the locking mechanism is not working anymore, this can be the cause. And don’t forget that could give you a potential security issue too.
- Windows are Leaking – Windows are there to let the light stream into your home, right? Well, that wonderful effect can be ruined if moisture gets between the panes in double-glazed windows, or you start getting a build-up of condensation on the inside. Yes, condensation can be wiped away but this quickly becomes annoying and often means you end up with mold growing on the inside of the frame too. And mist or moisture inside the window glass can’t be resolved, it will simply sit there obscuring your view and blocking the light. These issues usually occur when the seals have gone, or if the window hasn’t been installed properly in the first place. The worst-case scenario is when the window actually starts to leak and you end up with pools of water on the inside. In all of these instances, it’s probably the most cost-effective option to simply replace the window as repairs can work out as expensive if the seals on other panes fail and the whole cycle starts again.
- You Don’t Have Double Glazing – Take a good look at your windows. If you’ve always wondered why your room is always too cold in winter and too hot when the sun is out, it may be that you actually have a single pane rather than double-pane glass. These are often found in old properties and can make your home quite uncomfortable because they’re simply not as effective or as efficient as a more modern, double-glazed window. Time to replace.
Benefits of New Windows
Are new windows worth it? The simple answer in the vast majority of cases is yes. Installing new energy-efficient, high-quality, and attractive windows is a very wise investment for several reasons.
New windows should reduce heat loss and keep your home warmer. In addition, by reducing heat loss you will need to spend less on energy bills, particularly if you’re installing low emissivity (Low-E) glass which is the most energy-efficient glass for double glazing on the market. You may be able to reduce the level of noise entering the home from outside and by blocking drafts and gaps in the frame you will have a more comfortable (less drafty) home. This should also help to reduce the build-up of condensation.
It’s amazing what a difference new windows can make to the overall look of your property. If you want to give your ‘curb appeal’ a boost, replacement windows can be transformative.
It’s not just about improving the look or warmth of your home either; changing the type of window or the size can increase the amount of light entering your home and, when opened, can help to circulate fresh air and enhance the ambiance of your home. Replacement windows are well worth considering if you want to make some big changes to your lifestyle.
Replacing Your Windows?
Measure Your Windows
When measuring your windows you need to do so in millimeters (mm) and you should measure the aperture (opening at which the window sits) from the outside of the property.
Not sure how to measure your windows correctly? Take a look at our step-by-step guide to measuring your old windows for replacement.
Check if You Need Any Specialist Windows
There are safety regulations about window installations and if the frame of your window is less than 800mm from the floor the glass will need to be ‘toughened’. This means it is around 5 x stronger than standard glass and if broken will break into large chunks rather than shattering into lots of pieces.
Choose Between Double Glazing or Secondary Glazing
If you find the cost of double glazing unaffordable, secondary glazing is the next best thing. This means the second pane of glass is installed on the inside of the window to reduce heat loss and noise pollution, but it isn’t as effective as double glazing.
Choose the Window Frame Material
Window frames can be made from uPVC, aluminum, timber, or composite which is usually a combination of aluminum and timber. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages and your choice will affect the cost of your new windows.
Choose Your Style of Window
Windows are available in a range of styles and opening mechanisms that need to be suited to your home and lifestyle. You can choose from bay, casement, cottage, sash, tilt, and turn or dual turn (to name just a few).
Get Replacement Window Quotes
To get accurate prices for your new windows you will need to let window installers into your home to measure up and recommend the best style and frame material for you. It’s worth doing your own research before inviting installers into your home so you have some understanding of your choices.
Remember: Never let any trader pressure you to agree to a quote based on ‘today only prices’. A reputable company will provide their best quote and leave you to consider it.
What’s the Average Price of New Windows?
The average cost to replace windows will be impacted by several factors including the material used for the frame, the type of glazing, the style of window, and the company you choose to supply and install the windows.
To give you a starting point in your research, here are the average costs* for the supply and installation of double glazing for uPVC, aluminum, and timber windows.
uPVC
| Size of Window (mm) | Price per uPVC Casement Window – Ground floor | Price per uPVC Casement Window – Second floor |
|---|---|---|
| 600 x 900 | $654-785 | $719-850 |
| 900 x 1200 | $980-1,111 | $2,026-2,157 |
| 1200 x 1200 | $1,111 – 1,242 | $2,288-2,418 |
Aluminum
| Size of Window (mm) | Price per Aluminium Window – Ground floor | Price per Aluminium Window – Second floor |
|---|---|---|
| 600 x 900 | $654-785 | $785 – 915 |
| 900 x 1200 | $850-980 | $915-1,046 |
| 1200 x 1200 | $980 – 1,111 | $1,111–1,242 |
Timber
| Size of Window (mm) | Price per Timber Casement Window – Ground floor | Price per Timber Casement Window – Second floor |
|---|---|---|
| 600 x 900 | $1,111 – 1,242 | $1,176– 1,307 |
| 900 x 1200 | $1,568 – 1,700 | $1,700 –1,830 |
| 1200 x 1200 | $1,785 – 1,895 | $1830 – 1,961 |
* Average cost is based on GB to USD conversion rate 1.307 as of 8/24/2020
Other factors that will impact the cost of replacing your windows include the type and style of window e.g. casement, tilt and turn or cottage, etc. Double glazing is the most commonly recommended and most efficient glazing option but you also have the choice of secondary glazing which is cheaper. However, if you’d like to install the most energy-efficient glazing and are prepared to pay more you also have the option of triple glazing and even sound reduction glass.
The complexity of the installation process will also affect the price. For example, any windows above the ground floor will cost more to replace as the window fitter will need to use scaffolding to access them. If you’re having several windows replaced at one time you may find that the installer will offer a discount which is why many homeowners choose to replace all windows in their home at the same time.
Double-Hung Windows
This type of window has two sashes that slide vertically up and down in the frame. They can open wide from either the top or the bottom, but they remain inside the frame so they don’t protrude out to the exterior or interior of the house. On a single-hung window, only the bottom part of the window operates while the top part remains stationary.
Casement Windows
These hinged windows operate by a turn of a crank in an operating mechanism. They can be hinged on the left or the right to open outward.
Awning Windows
Hinged at the top, awning windows open outward to let in air from the left or right and the bottom. They can be installed above, below, or alongside a stationary or operating window.
Picture Window
This variety is a large stationary window that lets in the maximum amount of light and views of the outdoors.
Transom Window
A narrow window that can be either operating to let in air or non-operating (stationary) and mounted above a door or window to let in more light.
Slider Windows
modern- or contemporary-style houses.
Stationary Windows
Bay or Bow Windows
Generally, bay or bow windows give you more interior space, as they protrude out from the exterior of the siding of the house. They are a combination of windows often with a stationary window in the middle flanked by either 
double-hung windows or casements.
Window Covering Options for a Sliding Glass Patio Door
If you have a sliding glass patio door, you may be wondering how to have window treatments that will not get in the way when going inside and outside.
Vertical Blinds are probably the most common window covering for a sliding glass door. Vertical blinds are like traditional blinds, except they hang vertically instead of horizontally. They are often made out of plastic, metal, or fabric. The blinds move easily out of the way when accessing the door yet provide privacy and block light at other times.
Vertical Shades function very similarly to vertical blinds. They are generally made out of fabric (sheer or opaque) or woven wood (such as bamboo).
Cellular Blinds/Shades that so many people love also come in a vertical option for sliding glass patio doors.
Sliding Fabric Panels are similar to vertical blinds, several manufacturers sell sliding fabric panels to cover sliding glass patio doors. The panels range in width (generally 12″ to 36″), but they stack over each other when you push them out of the way.
Bypass Shutters
If you have shutters in your home, you may want to have your sliding glass door have the same look. You can get custom bypass shutters to coordinate 
with your window shutters. Bypass shutters work on a track, similar to a barn door. One door-sized shutter can be pushed out of the way by sliding it in front of the other shutter, thus giving you access to the door.
Custom Bypass Panels
You can make your own custom bypass panels to cover your sliding glass patio door. The panels can be made of window screens, plexiglass, metal, fabric, stone, wood, or almost any other material. You can hang the panels either inside your home or on the exterior of your home for added protection of your sliding glass door from strong weather.
Curtains
You can also use curtains on your sliding glass patio door. Your curtains should be easily pushed to the side using curtains with rings or a traverse rod. A traverse rod allows you to pull a rope to move the curtains to the side and out of the way. You might also like one layer of sheer curtains behind a layer of thick draperies.
Window Film
If you are not concerned about privacy but want to control a little bit of the heat and light coming through your sliding glass patio doors, consider using window film. It comes in many different colors, opacities, strengths, and heat resistance so you can select the best one for your particular situation. Consider putting frosted glass window film on your sliding glass door starting from approximately 4 feet down to provide visual privacy yet allow a view when standing.
Think Outside the Box
If you are concerned about privacy but don’t want to cover your windows, consider thinking outside to create privacy. You can install large shrubs, a decorative wall, lattice, tall trees, a fence topper, bamboo, or other items outside to block the view inside your home.
How to Make Windows Appear Larger
If you have small windows in your home or basement, you may wish for them to appear larger and let in more light.
Curtains Hung High
Hang your curtains several inches or feet above your windows to make your windows appear taller. You can even add a Roman shade, cornice board, valance, or bamboo shades between the curtains and above your window that hang down to just below the top of your window to fill the wall space. Curtains should be hung so the bottom is 1/2″ from the floor, so make sure to measure twice before hanging your curtain rod to ensure the proper length.
Curtains Hung Wide
Extend your curtain rod well past your windows to the left and right. Stack your curtains back on the wall instead of over your window to make your windows appear larger. The curtains will give the illusion that your window is wider than it actually is.
No Swag
Many people leave their drapes closed at the top but swag them to the side using tie-backs. Instead of cutting off the top portion of your window, allow your curtains to fall straight down at the outside edges of your window.
Fabric Pattern
Vertical striped curtain fabric draws attention up, thus giving the illusion of more height. Horizontally striped fabric will draw attention from side to side and give the illusion of more width.
Sheer or Translucent Curtains
Sheer and Translucent Curtains will allow light to pass through them, increasing the amount of light in your room, thus making your windows appear larger.
Mirrors
Consider adding mirrors adjacent to the left and right of your window that are angled slightly toward the window. The mirrors will reflect the light coming from the window and make the window appear larger. You can even add a mirror on a wall opposite a window to reflect light coming from that window and give the feeling of an additional window.
Sources: HGTV, Interior Design Info,Windows Guide,
