With an old Florida charm and new opportunities, Waldo is a great place to start a family. Whether you want to preserve the town’s history or give it a modern upgrade, there are many options for residential windows and doors.
PGT Custom Windows, Simonton Windows, and Custom Window Systems are among the top choices for home window installation. These manufacturers provide a wide range of styles and materials to suit any architectural style.
Vinyl Windows
Vinyl windows are affordable, easy to clean and have a sleek look. They also insulate well, making them a popular option for homeowners looking to save money on energy bills.
However, not all vinyl windows are the same. Some are made with a thin profile and hollow frame, while others have a metal inner framework that makes them more sturdy.
Over time, some vinyl frames can sag. This is not only a cosmetic issue, but it can cause operable windows to bind and jam.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows are a good choice for homeowners who want to upgrade their homes without breaking the bank. They have a classic design that fits well with any home setup and are resistant to dust, drought, and water intrusion.
They can also be coated to look like wood, but they don’t do as good a job at it as vinyl. However, they do show dents and scratches more easily than vinyl.
Wood Windows
Wood windows are a timeless beauty that add a touch of luxury to your home. They’re moderately priced, good insulators, and can be milled into any shape you want. They are also easy to customize with a variety of color, grille, and hardware options.
While natural wood is susceptible to rot, it can be protected with preservatives and clad with aluminum. They’re a good choice for homeowners who prioritize a high-end aesthetic and resale value.
Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass windows are a popular choice for homeowners seeking energy efficiency. They’re typically double- or triple-pane and filled with Argon gas, which provides superior insulation.
Fiberglass frames are durable and long-lasting. They’re also highly resistant to warping, rotting, and cracking.
They come in a variety of colors and styles, including slim sightlines. They’re available in casement and awning windows with innovative hardware that allows them to open and close easily.
Insert Windows
Unlike full-frame replacement windows, insert replacement windows fit inside the existing window frame. This method limits the extent of disruption to your home and saves on installation costs.
Before installing new insert replacement windows, take measurements to ensure the new windows are an exact match for the openings. Use a tape measure to check the width at three spots: the top, middle and bottom.
Then, remove the stops, lower and upper sash and weight cords.
Retrofit Windows
Retrofit windows allow homeowners to upgrade their existing frames without tearing down the surrounding walls, siding, and trim. This installation method significantly simplifies the replacement process, making it much more affordable and convenient.
New construction windows feature a nailing fin around the edge that gets butted to the wall sheathing, siding, or trim. As a result, they require more labor and time to install than retrofit windows. But they also offer the advantage of preventing moisture damage and wood-eating mold, which isn’t possible with retrofit windows.
Retrofit Doors
Retrofit windows are a great option for homeowners who want to upgrade their home without spending a fortune. They are made with tempered glass and a shatter-proof chemical interlayer, making them more resilient to storms and other high-velocity objects. They also offer stellar energy efficiency.
Also known as insert or pocket windows, they reduce the amount of construction work required during window installation. This method is often a cheaper alternative to replacing existing frames and trim. Proper framing is crucial to prevent energy leaks and moisture damage.
Full-Frame Windows
Full-frame window replacement involves removing the entire existing frame, including the sill and jambs. This is typically the best option for older homes with rotting frames and sashes.
It also allows for more flexibility if the homeowner wants to change the size of the existing window opening. It can also help increase energy efficiency and improve overall opening insulation.
However, this method is more costly than insert installation and may cause more disturbance to the surrounding trim, siding, and brickwork. Nevertheless, it can significantly enhance the home design and raise its resale value.
Full-Frame Doors
Full-frame replacement windows are ideal for homeowners looking to change the size, shape, or style of their existing window openings. This installation method involves removing the entire frame and trim, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the window area.
This allows for proper installation and a tight fit that boosts energy efficiency. It also helps reduce security risks by making it more difficult for intruders to pry open or break into the home.