Windows are an integral part of any home. Besides letting natural light inside, allowing ventilation, and giving you a view of the outdoors, windows also contribute immensely to the aesthetics and overall value of any home. But over time, they do take a beating from the elements and constant use, necessitating an upgrade.
And of course, there are many reasons to consider a window upgrade project. Whether you’re looking to boost your home’s curb appeal, improve its efficiency, boost security, improve ventilation, or enhance your home’s comfort, upgrading your windows doesn’t necessarily have to cost a fortune.
Here are some key ways to upgrade your home windows on a budget.
Painting Your Windows
Of course, you won’t be painting the glass panels. Adding a new lick of paint to the sills and frames can breathe new life into your windows, albeit without spending much money.
You can go for a monochromatic look by painting them with a color similar to the walls, or you could pick a neutral color. This will depend largely on your preferences. However, this might not be a viable option if your windows are vinyl or PVC.
Adding Window Film
Adding window film is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to upgrade your windows. Usually made of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) window film comes in a variety of styles to pick from depending on your aesthetics. Often classified among energy-efficient window coverings, one of the primary benefits of installing window film is that it reinforces your window glass panels, making them more resistant to shattering due to forced entry or harsh weather.
You can also use it to add privacy, block out light, or simply add a decorative touch to your windows. Most importantly, it is an amazing way to make your home more energy-efficient without spending an arm and a leg.
Adding Weatherstripping/Caulk
Over time, windows succumb to the impact of the elements alongside gradual wear and tear. This often leaves them with cracks and gaps that cause air drafts. Sealing these drafts with caulking or weatherstripping can be a budget-friendly way to give your windows a significant upgrade.
Not only does it increase your home’s efficiency, but caulking or weatherstripping windows can also go a long way in enhancing your home’s comfort. It can also help prevent moisture and pests from gaining entry into your house around windows.
For the best results, avoid caulking or weatherstripping during extremely cold or damp weather, as moisture and chilly temperatures can prevent the caulk from drying nicely.
Fixing Latches and Other Window Hardware
Nothing can be more annoying than a window that won’t open, close, or stay in place easily when you need it to. In most cases, this is caused by broken, faulty, dirty, rusty, or worn hardware, which you can repair or replace rather than having to replace the entire window. So, check your window hardware to see if the hinges, handles, and latches are working okay.
If the window latch isn’t working properly, first check to see if it’s dirty or needs to be lubricated. You can use a silicone-based lubricant to help with this. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the latch.
There are a variety of different types of window latches available on the market, and they are typically chosen based on the type of window that they will be used on. If you’re using a tilt latch window, you’ll want to make sure you get the dimensions, design, and style of the existing latch before heading to the hardware store. The same goes for spring-loaded latches, deadbolt latches, and friction latches.
Adding Window Treatments
Sometimes a window upgrade doesn’t involve working on the structure itself. Simply hanging some new curtains could be all your home needs for a fresh new look. Depending on your budget, you could also consider spicing things up by installing window shutters, blinds, and shades instead.
And besides adding to your home’s aesthetics, window treatments are an inexpensive way to improve your home’s privacy and energy efficiency. This simple upgrade could significantly help lower your home’s heating and cooling bills in winter and summer.
Upgrading your home’s windows doesn’t necessarily have to be a tormentous and expensive affair. With the above simple window upgrades, you can make your home more elegant, comfier, and greener.
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