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Thinking About New Windows? Read This First

Do You Really Need New Windows?

Before you spend big, learn your options.

Many people think they need new windows when they feel a draft or see foggy glass.
But sometimes, your windows just need a little care — not a full replacement.

Here are three main options to consider 👇

1️⃣ Refurbish (Fix What You Have)

What it means:
You keep your old windows and fix small problems.
A pro can scrape, paint, seal, or reglaze them.

Good if:
✅ The frame is strong
✅ You only have small leaks or peeling paint
✅ You want to save money

Ask your contractor:

• Can you repair any rot or gaps?

• Will this stop drafts?

• How long will it last?

Cost guide:

• Wood: $200–$600 per window

• Vinyl: $150–$400 per window

2️⃣ Insert or Sash Replacement

What it means:
Keep your old frame, but replace the glass and moving parts.
No wall or trim work needed!

Good if:
✅ Frame is still solid
✅ You want better glass or insulation
✅ You like your current trim

Ask your contractor:

• Will the new sashes fit tight?

• How much glass space will I lose?

• What’s the warranty?

Cost guide:

• Vinyl: $400–$800

• Wood: $600–$1,000

• Fiberglass: $800–$1,200

3️⃣Full Window Replacement

What it means:
Take out the entire old window (frame, trim, glass) and install a new one.

Good if:
✅ Frame is rotten, cracked, or leaks badly
✅ You’re remodeling or changing styles

Ask your contractor:

• Will you check for water damage?

• Is painting and cleanup included?

• How long will the install take?

Cost guide:

• Vinyl: $700–$1,200

• Wood: $900–$1,600

• Fiberglass: $1,000–$1,800

How to Tell What You Need

• Frame feels soft or spongy → Full replacement

• Frame is solid but drafty → Insert or sash replacement

• Just old paint or minor cracks → Refurbish

Tip: Sometimes cleaning and sealing can add years of life to your old windows.

Before You Hire

Ask each contractor:

1. What exactly will you replace or repair?

2. Will you check for hidden rot?

3. Is trim and paint included?

4. What’s your warranty?

Get at least two quotes and compare what’s included — not just the price.

Final Thought

New windows can be great — but not everyone needs them. A good contractor will explain your options and help you spend wisely.

Start by checking your frames and asking questions — your best window might be the one you already have.

Home insurance premiums are up by 9% this year

Home insurance costs continue to climb, with premiums rising over 9% this year and more than 60% in the past five years. However, coverage hasn’t kept pace, leaving many homeowners paying significantly more for less protection. With affordability becoming a growing concern, it’s more important than ever to compare options—check out Money’s handy home insurance tool to find the best fit for you.

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What Are Some Good Window Manufacturers?

Here are some high quality window makers who make their windows in the USA. We have separated the table into companies that focus primarily on vinyl windows (cheaper), and companies that focus on many material types.

Vinyl Only (or Primarily Vinyl)

Multiple Materials (Wood, Aluminum, Fiberglass, Vinyl, etc.)

Window Replacement In Action

What does the process of replacing windows look like?

The video below shows a pretty typical FULL window replacement situation. This window is surrounded by trim on the exterior.

Note in the video that the existing weather resistant barrier (WRB), which is a white material in this case, was still in good condition.

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Fall Maintenance Reminder

It’s time to clean and cover your air conditioner condenser. This is a simple do it yourself (DIY) task.

Keeping these clean makes your system run more efficiently and prevents issues with the AC system freezing up.

Usually you can clean these with a water hose and a good sprayer. You can see the dust and loose dirt built up through the outside grille on the sides of the condenser.

Start at the top of the condenser and spray the water as a high pressure stream along into the top of the grille, directing the water towards the coil fins.

The most dirty of condensers may require removing the exterior grilles, using a specialized cleaning agent, and manually scrubbing the coil fins with the brush.

Once your AC condenser is clean and you are done using your AC for the season, we recommend covering the condenser with a specialized cover, or just a tarp held down with some heavy objects or bungie cords.

The content of this newsletter is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Some of the links included in this newsletter are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Always perform your own due diligence before making any financial or business decisions.