Window repair and replacement in Canada are expensive, and it’s tempting to have your window provider do all the work, but did you know that there are several tips on how you can save money on window replacement? You only have to learn the basics of window replacement.
For most homeowners, the replacement cost of two or three windows might be manageable but for a whole-house window replacement, expect that you’ll pay a bunch of money.
Generally, seeking out cheap replacement window services is one way to cut down the costs. But there are other ways of cutting down the overall cost of your window replacement. Check out these money-saving tips and increase your residential window project’s worth.
Tips on How to Save Money on Window Replacement
Repairing windows at home is quite expensive, and more so if you will replace them. However, you cannot let your windows damaged the whole time because they protect your home 24/7 from outside elements.
So, you need to call a window replacement and repair company to fix them as soon as possible for a quite expensive charge. But if you are a practical and money-conscious homeowner, here are some of a few money-saving options for you.
Know When to Repair or Replace Your Windows
If you want to save money on window replacement, considering whether your window needs repair or replacement is one way. Sometimes, some window’s wear and tear are normal and usually won’t affect your windows’ functions. If that’s the case, repairing is the option, not a replacement.
Always consider whether you can replace broken sash cords, panes, or hardware and can free up the painted-shut upper sash before replacing the entire window.
However, if other severe damages and signs are present and affect the function, these indicate that window replacement is the only solution. Learn how to weigh the severity of your window problems before you decide to get a window replacement.
Understand the Energy Efficiency
It’s hard to decide about window repair and replacement without knowing the energy efficiency. Many homeowners in Canada don’t realize that home windows’ energy efficiency requirements depend on the region they’re living in and their home’s existing efficiency.
Residential homes in a Northern area that require to keep as much heat as possible inside their home during the winter season need different glazing and window coating options than the houses in the South region that needs to keep the warmth out.
The energy efficiency greatly affects the cost of window replacement, but these can also help you save money on window replacement if you know how these efficiencies work.
On the other side, a house window with all of the energy efficiency bells and whistles might sound interesting to have and might be a sound investment.
Still, it’s crucial to note that if your walls aren’t adequately insulated, these energy-efficient windows with triple-pane glass or insulating glass won’t make sense.
Many homeowners like triple-pane glass as it is herald as the best energy-efficient windows, but it isn’t always suitable for all. Conducting a home energy audit may help you decide whether energy-efficient windows are a great investment and will be worth it over time.
Consider Choosing Cheaper Window Materials
Another saving tip for replacing windows is by considering cheaper but quality window materials. Generally, solid wood windows are considered as the premium choice. However, fibreglass frames are way cheaper than solid woods, while solid vinyl frames are the least costly of all.
The reality here is that if you choose solid windows and painted them on the inside of your home, you may not tell the difference at all. So, if that’s the case, better to choose the other window materials.
Choose Common Window Types and Styles
Curves, circles, hexagons, bays, and bows are all appealing and aesthetically designed, but these unusual shapes will surely drive up window repair and replacement costs.
Common styles and shapes make for cheaper windows if you plan to replace your windows. The cheapest common window styles are single-hung, double-hung, fixed, sliders, and casement windows.
Take note that different installation options may affect the pricing, so to save money on window replacement, consider the installation. Installing windows with a perimeter fin may require you to remove and replace the exterior trim, making the cost higher.
On the other hand, windows without perimeter fins can be “slid” into the existing opening and easily attached through the new window sides, reducing the removal and replacement costs.
Negotiate a Lower Price
Every replacement and repair window company, even authorized window dealers, usually negotiate prices. The replacement window industry is one of the home remodelling business sectors where price negotiation is usually expected.
With the rapidly growing competition in the market, they always tend to offer price negotiation. If you know how to handle the negotiation, you probably will save money on window replacement.
Local replacement window companies purchase wholesale replacement windows at wholesale prices and sell the window-plus-installation packages to their consumers. While you can propose a different price or some extras, remember that every window replacement company will have its own final negotiation.
Get at Few Quotes to Save Money
The rule of thumb is to obtain at least three quotes from different companies. It works with simple logic: When you get at least three estimates, you can weigh which one offers the lowest estimate. Getting estimates from different companies is another saving tip for replacing windows.
Besides, by doing that, you can also save your time for deciding where to get a replacement service. You may schedule three replacement window companies for an appointment. Don’t be afraid to tell them that you are getting three bids because it may encourage them to offer the best price possible.
After all, bids are normal, and by doing that, you will have a cost spread of estimates. One being the lowest, another the highest, and the third between those two.
Maintain the Cleanliness of Your Windows
Nothing compares to the saving that cleaning and maintaining can offer. Always clean the area thoroughly, including the jambs and the sill. If you notice that the jambs and sills have holes in them, you can fill them up before you proceed to your window installation.
If you’re removing the entire frame, you may check for spots as well. Make sure you fill every hole before installing your new windows.
Should You Get a Window Repair or Replacement?
Every house is different in terms of how many window replacement job would require. With that, you cannot guarantee how much it will cost you, but if you know how to save money on window replacement, you can cut down the higher cost.
Besides, before getting a replacement, consider first if repairing your windows can resolve your problem before deciding to get a window replacement to keep your initial investment lower.
If you wish to ask a window contractor to assess your existing windows, you may visit HighRise Glass Repair Toronto. You may also contact us at (416) 875-5285 to request a quote.