If your windows are over two decades old or there’s a light draft coming through the window, it might be time for a replacement. Installing new windows is a costly and oftentimes stressful project. The professionals at Lawrenceville Home Improvement, a window, door and siding company, find the balance between what the client wants and what works best for their home. They take pride in their customer satisfaction guarantee and uphold a reputation to install high-end products at affordable prices. House & Home spoke with owner James Russo to learn more about window options and designs.

How do you choose windows?
Lawrenceville Home Improvement has painstakingly reviewed and met with countless  window manufacturers to develop a top-notch selection of windows for our customers. Cost, efficiency, sustainability and, above all, quality have been taken into consideration as we assembled this impressive lineup.  There is something for everyone.  

What materials are windows made from?
The three primary types of windows are wood, vinyl and fiberglass. Each material offers advantages and disadvantages. Wood is often required in homes under historical society regulations and is favored by those who want a certain look and are willing to put in the necessary maintenance. Vinyl is a top pick for those who are budget conscious. Fiberglass windows, which often land in between wood and vinyl in terms of price, offer superior efficiency and sustainability. Once  installed, a fiberglass window will most likely never need to be replaced.

Which windows are more energy efficient?
Windows have come a long way in terms  of providing energy efficiency. Most window manufacturers require double-paned glass insulated with argon gas. In addition, fiberglass windows offer superior efficiency over other window materials. Fiberglass has limited expansion and contraction (unlike wood and vinyl)  when it is installed. What this means is the window will stay tight in the opening. Windows that expand and contract over time can be compromised resulting  in drafting or total window failure. Most customers who opt for a fiberglass window see their cooling and heating bills decrease right away.  

How do you know when to get your windows replaced?
There are usually five questions you should ask yourself when determining whether your windows need to be replaced:  Are your windows over 20 years old? If your windows were installed 20 years ago, they are probably made of wood or vinyl. Both of these materials expand and contract with the changing temperatures of the progressing seasons. As a result, the fit of the window can become compromised thereby making the window susceptible to drafting.  Do you have trouble opening or closing your windows? Although mechanism failure can sometimes be repaired, it is more likely  the sign of total unit compromise.  Do you feel a draft? If you feel air coming through, heat or air conditioning is seeping out. A drafty window is a call to action to replace your windows.  Is there cloudiness or fogginess between the glass of the window? Seal failure is the cause of discoloration or fog within the window panes of glass; you will not be able to wipe it off with your hand or a cloth. In some cases you can just replace the glass in this situation, but if your window frame has been warped or compromised in any way, the problem will reoccur.  Are your windows single paned? Most windows made today have two panes of glass with a heavy insulating clear gas in the middle. If your window is old enough to be single paned, it most likely needs to be replaced. 

Why should people choose Lawrenceville Home Improvement when looking for new windows?
Lawrenceville  Home Improvement is a family-owned and -operated business that is thoroughly committed to customer satisfaction. The staff is available to answer questions and our showroom on business Route 1 has all of the windows we carry on display. Really, we are a great resource for the  homeowner and we strive to help them make an educated and informed decision.

Lawrenceville Home Improvement
Lawrenceville, N.J. | (609) 882-6709
LawrencevilleHomeImp.com

Select photography courtesy of Marvin® Infinity®

Published (and copyrighted) in House & Home, Volume 19, Issue 8 (February 2019). 
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