Blog | SmardBuild | Chicago Remodeling

8 Tips for Picking Replacement Windows for Your Exterior Remodel

Written by Mark Smarduch | Dec 15, 2022 5:13:00 PM
There’s no reason to leak heat out of your windows, tolerate cracks and sags in your old windows, or live with less-than-ideal natural light. Get the perfect windows by doing your research and consulting the experts. Smardbuild is here to show you the way!

SmardBuild works out of Naperville, IL, and takes pride in keeping your home’s exterior looking its best. Our extensive work in exterior remodels in the Chicago area has equipped us with plenty to say about matching you to the perfect windows for your home remodel.

Tips for Perfect Replacement Windows

Your windows significantly contribute to the look your home presents to the world. There are more window options than ever before. Don’t miss out on great opportunities to make your home look fantastic while maximizing your natural light and increasing energy efficiency. Here are our expert tips for picking the perfect replacement windows during your Naperville exterior remodel.

1. Choose the Right Materials

From least to most expensive, windows are commonly made from vinyl, fiberglass, and wood, or aluminum and wood. Fiberglass or aluminum windows are more durable, last longer, and need to be replaced less frequently than vinyl windows. The suitable materials for your windows will depend on the materials you select for the rest of your exterior remodel. If you’re installing vinyl siding, vinyl windows might make sense. If you’re opting for fiber cement or another, more durable medium, fiberglass and wood windows may be the right call.

 

2. Replace Your Windows and Siding Together

Replacing your windows and siding together is efficient and saves time. We first install your windows, allowing us to cap your windows to seal around the frame completely. Once your windows are in place, we can add siding and trim to nestle them into place. If you can afford to take on both windows and siding in one project, you can save a bit on labor while your crew completes one efficient project.

 

3. Move or Expand Your Windows

When you’re replacing windows, you don’t have to swap them out for exactly the same thing. You can add larger windows, move windows to illuminate dark corners or change up the style and shape. This is a rare opportunity to invite natural light into your home.

4. Mix and Match Your Window Styles

You don’t need every window in your home to match. Accent your home with arched windows, windows with mullions, a picture window, or casement windows to capture the breeze. There’s no reason to pick just one or to stick with whatever was there before.

 

5. Add an Egress

Egress windows double as emergency exits. Basement bedrooms, for example, count as bedrooms if egress is available. Egress windows are an important safety feature for peace of mind anywhere in your home.

 

6. Replace Your Windows Before They Fail

Old windows can crack, sag, or break. Don’t let signs of wear and tear snowball before you make plans to replace your windows, as you could end up inviting more structural damage. Vinyl windows need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years, whereas aluminum or fiberglass and wood windows could last as long as 50 years.

7. The Pane is Worth It

Double and triple-pane windows increase your home’s insulation. Windows with more panes are heavier and more expensive in addition to being more energy-efficient, but the extra quality is often well worth the price tag when your home stays comfortable during extreme temperatures.

 

8. Get Style Points for Great Trim

Trim completes your window’s look, both from the interior and exterior. Don’t miss the opportunity for perfect coordination, expressing your style, or adding an ornamental flair with curated trim for your new windows.

 

How Long Does it Take to Replace Your Windows?

An expert contractor can replace your windows in a few days with a small crew and even quicker with a large one. Custom windows, moving windows, or adding more labor-intensive features like a garden window or picture window may extend the time it takes to install your new windows beyond a single week. Of course, a project with multiple elements takes longer. Your contractor is the best source of information about your remodeling timeline, and can also recommend other exterior upgrades to add value to your home.


What Do New Windows Cost?

The cost of new windows depends on the size and material you select. To give you a general idea, we’ve provided some ranges for the cost of new double-hung windows installed with interior and exterior trim in Naperville.

  • Vinyl - $750-$850 per window
  • Fiberglass/Wood - $1,300 to $1,600 per window
  • Wood/Aluminum - $1,400 to $2,200 per window

Make a Smart Choice with SmardBuild

SmardBuild is Naperville, IL’s exterior remodeling expert. Our honest, transparent pricing, superior customer service, and time-tested skill make us the smart choice for your new windows, siding, and more. We cannot wait to add you to our long list of happy clients.