Modern. Sustainable. Atlanta. 404.303.7280

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When Should Your Replace Your Windows.

Given the considerable enhancements in window technology over the past years, determining whether to replace, repair or renew windows can be as hard as making a decision on whether to replace or repair an aging car engine or go for a brand new car.

As with the car comparison, there are a number of aspects to think about when deciding the future of aging windows. This contains comfort, energy consumption, acoustics, aesthetics and function.

Discomfort related with old or insufficiently performing windows is a general criticism among building owners, managers and tenants. Windows that let a lot of heat inside during summer times or are cold in winter not only bring about discomfort but waste energy.

Poor performing windows can be restored entirely or, alternatively, existing glazing units (glass without a frame) can be restored to recover the general function of the window unit. With innovation in technology, glazing units and frames are more thermally efficient and comfortable today. Windows in a house can improve comfort, aesthetics, and value. They let in natural light and fresh air, and offer outdoor views for those inside. They assist reduce sound, contaminants and other allergens. They also assist insulate your home and, in the process, bring down your total energy bills. The US Department of Energy points out that 40% of your annual heating and cooling bill can be influenced by the windows. There are few factors that can help you realize the time to replace the windows:

The current windows are single pane, which is the least efficient kind of window glass. It easily   lets heat in, and cold out. Another factor is the frames are made of aluminum. Aluminum is an excellent conductor of cool and heat, which is not suitable for a window frame and causes about 28% of your energy waste.

Chilliness indicates a poor installation and lets free flowing air in and out. Most of the time poor installation can have the same outcome as missing a brick or two in a wall High Energy Bills is another indicator of poor windows. If you see remarkable increases not resulted by strange weather or utility price hikes, it may be a sign that your existing windows have become useless. This can be confirmed by broken seals, condensation between panes, frost on the inside, cracked glass, and even jammed windows (implying the house may have settled and now the windows are off center). Sometimes it’s just a need for more convenience. Old hard to clean windows can be changed with new tilt-in types that allow for easy cleaning and preservation.

It is not the case If single pane is bad, double pane is good, and then triple pane must consistently be better. Double pane outperforms all other window types. Generally there are 7 factors to think about on replacement windows. a) Cost, b) Materials, c) Install Process, d) U Value, e) SHGC Solar Heat Gain efficiency, f) Visible Light Transmittance, and g) Sound Reduction.

While it is not rocket science, installing a window is a required skill. A window will only function well if it is installed properly. A poorly installed window can be hard to open and close, it can leak, and cause you problems.

Climate has a lot to do with what windows work best for you Aluminum frames are not very efficient and have a tendency to sweat with condensation and are being phased out by most manufacturers.
Vinyl frames are a lot more efficient and more reasonably priced than aluminum frames and appear to be the item of choice for most new construction and replacement requests.
Fiberglass frames are efficient and strong, have the more bulky look from wood, and are easy to paint with very little expansion and contraction. These frame types are more expensive than vinyl frames but less expensive than wood frames. Fiberglass frames are an excellent substitute to vinyl frames. Wood frames can be costly and generally have an engineered cladding to the exterior of aluminum, vinyl or fiberglass.

In real estate terms, location, as well as looks, will be the deciding aspects in selecting which type of window will work best for your home.

If you are interested in replacing your windows on your Atlanta home renovation, contact    Eco Custom Homes at 404 303 7280 or email to info@ecocustomhomes.com, and we can walk you through the costs as well as what glass and frame specifications are right for your needs.”

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Costs of Custom Homes

The first thing most people want to know is: What does it costs to build a 3000 sqft custom home in the Atlanta, GA. market?  The first thing you have to calculate is the square footage you want.  Once you have that, the numbers below give you a good starting point.

Adjusted Square Foot Calculation:

New Construction:

Renovations:

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