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12 Reasons Why You Should Choose Retrofit Windows in Colorado
What Are Retrofit Windows?
Colorado hail storms don’t take prisoners. Between April and September, as well as in August, residents of Denver, Grand Junction, CO, are bombarded with hail that can damage their Denver, Grand Junction & Telluride homes.
While some are as small as golf balls, the velocity with which they fall can shatter windows, spraying glass everywhere and causing serious injuries. This is where retrofit windows can prove invaluable. The best part is that you don’t need to replace the whole window to enjoy the benefits of this one.
What Are Retrofit Windows?
A retrofit window is a reinforced window custom fitted into the opening of an existing window without removing the window sill, frame, and trim. The new window is custom fitted into the space so you don’t need a complete window replacement. The installation process is less labor intensive and less invasive on your home’s structure.
What Are the Pros of a Retrofit Window?
These windows are a great investment for several reasons, but these are the top 12 that most Denver, Grand Junction & Telluride, CO homeowners have reported:
1. Reduce Window Damage
One of the best benefits of retrofit windows is that they don't shatter or get damaged easily, which is why they are also called impact windows. These windows are made of several layers of glass and synthetic material, so they are thick enough to withstand harsh impact, thus the name. This includes vinyl or aluminum frames, tempered glass, heat-strengthened glass, and a glass film.
With hail storms common in Colorado, residents installing impact windows can ensure their home has the highest protection from such storms. When hailstones strike the window, it develops a spider web pattern rather than shattering even under extreme stress.
2. Make Your Home Soundproof
Retrofit windows with impact protection are thick enough to block sound, ensuring your home remains peaceful even if you live near major highways. The multiple layers block ambient noise and vibrations especially if they are laminated and insulated. Some of the common noises the window can efficiently block include the following:
● Trains passing by.
● Planes taking off.
● Honking horns.
● Loud music from the neighbor’s house.
● Construction, demolition, and drilling.
Fantastic soundproofing makes retrofit windows ideal for Denver & Grand Junction homeowners and property managers who promise a peaceful living environment for tenants.
3. Last for Years
Retrofit windows, such as impact windows, are made to be durable, so they can withstand impact from hail, flying debris, and objects during a storm. Standard windows cannot last long in areas that are susceptible to storms. Since retrofit windows comprise several layers, they can withstand impact.
Even if a window develops cracks, it can be slipped out and replaced with a new one. In most cases, a broken window that isn’t a retrofit has to be replaced along with its frame and sill. But that is not the case for retrofitted windows, so they last for years. Whether you choose awning, single hung, horizontal rolling, or any other type of retrofitted window, they will last for years.
4. Protects Your Home’s Interior
Retrofitted windows are outfitted with heat-strengthened glass tinted to block harmful UV rays from entering your home, which can otherwise bleach your expensive furniture and rugs.
Consistent heat exposure can do irreparable damage, reducing your home's value and creating a bad impression during a showing.
5. Reduces Heat Transfer and Saves Money
The answer to ‘are retrofits an energy-efficient window replacement option’ is a resounding YES. Besides protecting your home against harsh weather conditions, these windows can also reduce the intensity of direct sunlight, thus reducing your energy bill.
Impact windows are made by bonding multiple layers of glass with a plastic interlayer applied via a laminate procedure. The type of glazing or laminate you choose will affect energy efficiency and how well they withstand impact.
These windows have a thin metallic coating that filters out harmful UV rays that can otherwise make your HVAC system work double time. The result is a lower energy bill without the need to compromise comfort.
For example, if you replace your existing windows with ones retrofitted with Low-E (low emissivity) double glazing before winter, you can get a warmer home. The glass you pick will insulate your home during winter and cool in the summer by keeping the internal temperature constant. It's also why you are less likely to see condensation beading on such windows, which would otherwise mess up the internal temperature.
6. Keeps Your Home Dry
Did you know that the average home releases around 8 liters of water daily in the air? Whether you are taking a hot shower, cooking, watering your plants, or drying your clothes, you contribute to the buildup.
But you cannot stop doing those things to reduce condensation in your home. What you can do is check if your existing windows are letting in air. If yes, replace them with retrofitted windows. Since these are custom-fitted to frames, they will significantly reduce air leakage, which can cause condensation.
Plus, retrofitted windows can also be fitted with venting handles, allowing air circulation while restricting the window opening.
7. Enhances Your Home’s Security and Prevents Injuries
Your home and family's safety are paramount, but you are susceptible to break-ins if you have large picture windows. While you can install annealed or safety glass, a strong enough impact can break it.
However, unlike retrofitted impact windows that develop spider web cracks rather than shattering, standard security glass breaks in long, sharp shards that can cause serious injuries. The interlayer of retrofitted laminated windows holds the glass together, which is why it is so difficult to break.
8. Enhances Privacy
Retrofitted double-glazed windows can allow you to control the amount of light entering your home while maintaining the internal temperature. You can opt for frosted, tinted, or reflective glass, which allows sufficient sunlight.
For example, graduated or print patterns allow light in from the top of the window while patterned glass defuses it to reduce visibility without reducing penetration. Similarly, tinted glass reduces the amount of visible light inside and outside your home, while reflective glass creates a mirror effect during daylight hours – you can see outside but no one can see what you are doing inside.
9. Preserves Your Home’s Historic Value
Original windows in historical buildings offer irreplaceable character that you can lose if you replace them with standard windows. The latter cannot match the authentic look and feel that gives these buildings a timeless look.
Plus, the size and shape of the windows probably don't match the dimensions of modern window styles. However, changes in the sill and frame can lead to drafts and distort the home. Unlike older windows that came in replaceable parts, modern varieties come in single pieces, and customizing the opening to make them fit will compromise the home's historical integrity.
Retrofit double-glazed windows are ideal for heritage properties since you don't need to remove the antique frame or sill before installation.
10. Reduces Costs and Support a Sustainable Lifestyle
Retrofitted windows are considered a more affordable option than replacement ones since you don't have to make significant alterations to your home to install them. This means a cleaner and more affordable installation job that means more money in your pocket.
These windows also only take up little space in landfills which contributes to a sustainable environment. Reducing the heating and cooling energy your HVAC system consumes to maintain a comfortable temperature also reduces environmental impact.
11. Improves Property Value
As more homeowners consider reducing energy costs to increase their disposable income, the search for sustainable and energy-efficient properties is rising. An energy-efficient and retrofitted home has more chances of selling for a high price than those that don't provide these benefits.
The first thing you should do before getting retrofitted windows is to get an energy audit for your home. Use it as a blueprint of what options you should consider for your windows that can make your property more comfortable and healthy. The audit will reveal heat and energy loss problems and air leaks. Do this after you get retrofitted windows and show the difference to potential buyers to increase your chances of getting a good sale.
12. Custom-Fitted to Your Current Windows
Last but not least, retrofitted windows can be installed over your existing doors and windows, and you don't have to remove anything to make them fit, either. These can be adapted to sliding windows and doors, casement windows, and awnings with timber or aluminum frames. The contractor will find a solution for you irrespective of the shape and size of your current windows. Paragraph
When to Choose Retrofit Windows?
To summarize, retrofitted windows can improve your quality of life significantly. Here are some of the top signs that you should replace your existing windows with retrofitted ones:
Your Windows Jam a Lot
Aging wooden windows warp with time, making them jam or stick to their frames. Rust, rot, and mold can exacerbate their condition and are an indication that they should be replaced. Replace them with brand-new retrofitted options that won't warp, get stuck or shatter.
Your House Feels Cold
If you feel a draft when standing next to your closed windows, the seals are loose or damaged. With time, this will compromise your HVAC's efficiency leading to higher energy bills. Retrofitted glazed windows are custom-made to your existing frame and sill and provide a tight seal.
You See a Lot of Condensation on The Glass
If you see considerable condensation on the glass, the glazing has weakened. This can happen when loose seals allow moisture between the glass panes which get trapped. Retrofitted double-glazed windows prevent this from happening.
Storms Are a Constant Threat
As mentioned before, Colorado is known for frequent hail storms, which can damage property considerably. If you are tired of paying for new windows every time, you should consider reinforced impact retrofitted windows. Rather than shattering, these break out in a spider web pattern so they don’t cause injuries and can be replaced easily as well.
What Are the Cons of a Retrofit Window?
There are a few minor downsides to these windows. For one thing, the size of the replacement window cannot be modified since it has to fit in the existing frame. Plus, if the frame is a bit unique, it may have to be modified to accommodate the windows. However, the ease of installation is why most homeowners go for these windows.
Final Words
Your windows may be hazardous for you and your family. With time and during storms, the frame and glass can weaken, leading to leaks, security threats, and cracks. Retrofitted windows can offer a range of benefits that make them worthwhile replacements.
If you are searching for a team of dedicated professionals who can recommend and install these sustainable and robust windows in your home, contact Clearly Windows & Doors. When you choose us, you can rest assured you won't have to choose between value and quality. We offer competitive pricing for all of our windows since we eliminate the middleman and unnecessary costs. Get a stress-free quote for your new Grand Junction & Denver windows, or call us for more information by dialing 970-744-9204. We will be more than happy to assist you with your window options.
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