1. Using Cost as Your Only Determining Factor When Replacing Windows

Not all windows are created equal. While it may be easiest to make your decision about home window replacement by looking at the price tag, the truth is that you may end up buying a window that is as ineffective or worse than the one you are replacing.

Instead of buying the cheapest or most expensive windows available, it is advised that you utilize the services of a reputable company like California Energy Consultant Service when replacing home windows in Sacramento. They’ll help you identify the best type of window for your home and climate.

2. Trying to Replace the Windows without the Help of a Specialist

While a do-it-yourself mentality could save you hundreds in most areas of home improvement, it could cost you thousands when it comes to window replacement.

Unlike other areas of home improvement, window replacement is something that you’ll do maybe once or twice during the time that you own your home. With energy efficiency being a relatively new concept, it’s best to contact the experts to replace home windows in Sacramento County.

3. Improperly Installing Your Replacement Windows

Simply buying the best and most energy-efficient windows for your home does not guarantee that you’ll save money on your utility bills in the future. In fact, one of the most common mistakes made by those replacing home windows in Sacramento is that of improper installation. Poorly installed windows can cause windows to have shorter life spans, have difficulty opening and closing, and ultimately decrease the energy efficiency of your home.

In order to ensure proper installation of your new replacement windows, you’ll want to make sure you hire a company that has service technicians trained and authorized by the window manufacturer.

For those looking for home window replacement in Sacramento, El Dorado Hills, or any other nearby city, California Energy Consultant Service technicians are trained and authorized by such window companies as Simonton, Milgard, Ply Gem, and Marvin.

4. Opting for Off-Brand Replacement Windows

When selecting replacement windows for your home, it is always advised that you go with what it is known to be reliable. Although buying off-brand items can help you save money in many other areas, it is not advised when buying replacement windows.

Your replacement windows will have a rather large impact on the energy efficiency of your home, and will influence your energy bills for years to come. By buying off-brand windows, you may have a hard time finding those windows or necessary replacement parts in the future.

Some quality brands for replacement windows include the following:

• Simonton
• Marvin
• Ply Gem
• Milgard

5. Failing to Ask Your Hired Specialist Questions

When shopping for replacement windows for homes in Sacramento, it is important to ask your hired specialists as many questions as necessary. Remember, no question is stupid, and you should be able to feel comfortable knowing that you hired the right team for the job. At California Energy Consultant Service, we encourage you to ask as many questions as necessary before, during, and after the home window replacement process.

Three great window designs to consider include:

• Casement windows
• Sliding windows
• Double-Hung windows

1. Casement Windows

Casement windows are the most popular choice of people who own homes in Sacramento County. Theses windows are operated by a turning crank, and unlike most other windows, the glass has no internal siding. This gives you an unobstructed view when looking in or out of it. Two popular types of casement windows are:

Simonton Vinyl Windows—Sacramento homeowners love these windows because they are made with standard Low-E glass, they’re sturdy, and they are scratch resistant.

Marvin Casement Windows—Sacramento homeowners enjoy these windows in their homes because they’re made from natural wood, have strong protective shells, and require no painting!

2. Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are made of fixed pane glass that moves along a track. These windows are great for both traditional homes and modern homes alike. For example, Simonton Sliding Windows come in a variety of styles for Sacramento homeowners to pick from, including:

• Colonial
• Victorian
• Queen Anne
• Perimeter Single
• Perimeter Double
• Double Queen Anne

So where should you put your new sliding windows? Well, the great thing about sliding windows is that they’re space savers, making them perfect for decks, patios, and walkways. Also, they are durable and require little maintenance. Their Low-E glass gives them high insulation and makes them energy efficient.

3. Double Hung Windows

When people are looking for window replacements in Sacramento, California energy consultants California Energy Consultant Service recommends double hung windows. These windows are rectangle in shape and hang vertically. These windows have upper and lower window sashes, which provide Sacramento homeowners with both top and bottom ventilation. This window style is one of the most traditional ones to choose from, but is also compatible with most home designs.

These great windows also have a number of options you can choose from to allow you to customize them exactly how you want them. Select from:

• Two grid colors: white and tan
• Two grid types: flat and sculptured
• Assortment of grid styles: Victorian, Queen Anne, and Double Queen Anne

Another useful feature about double hung windows is the variety of glass styles available on the market. California Energy Consultant Service is the premier Sacramento window replacement specialists to offer their customers a wide selection of state of the art glass, including:

• Kool Bronze
• Tempered
• Obscure
• Glue Chip
• Rain
• Delta
• Clear Flemish 42

So if you’re in the market for replacement windows for your Sacramento home, you’re definitely going to want to consider these three options. Casement windows, sliding windows, and double hung windows are excellent choices when it comes to energy efficiency and beauty.

To get the best service and options contact a trusted Sacramento home window replacement company like California Energy Consultant Service. We have the expertise to ensure your replacement job is done right and cost effectively.

Depending on when you purchased your home, you may or may not know when your current windows were installed. That’s why Sacramento home window replacement company California Energy Consultant Service recommend that you take note of 5 particular signs to help you know when home window replacement is necessary.

1. You commonly feel a draft inside your home

If you feel a draft or breeze in your home, particularly when you are near your windows, there’s a good chance that you’re in need of a home window replacement. The following issues typically cause drafts in your Sacramento County home:

• Poor or improper sealing around the windows of your home
• The sealing around your windows is old and worn
• Your windows are not closing properly

Windows that don’t close or have poor or worn-down sealing can cause your energy bills to increase, regardless of the season. In warmer months, they’ll cause cold air from your air conditioner units to escape your home. In colder months, your heating bill will be higher than it should be due to the loss of heat through your windows.

2. You notice moisture buildup after a storm

Whether there’s condensation between your windowpanes or a pool of water on your windowsill or nearby floor, you are dire need of home window repair or home window replacement.

Give California Energy Consultant Service a call for home windows replacement in Sacramento, El Dorado, San Joaquin or any other nearby county. Having a professional upgrade your weather-stripping can sometimes solve moisture buildup. However, it may be cheaper and more effective in the long run to simply have your windows replaced, as moisture buildup could lead to rotted or warped window frames.

3. Your window frames are starting to deteriorate

Rotted or warped window frames are a very good indication that it is time for home window replacement. While rotting or warped window frames can be easy to spot with the naked eye, the damage may not always be visible.

One of the easiest ways to determine if your window frames are starting to decay is to take a metal object with a flat surface, such as a knife or screwdriver, and press it against the wood of your windowsill. If it easily presses into your wood, then it’s time you looked into a full window and frame replacement.

4. There are cracks in your window glass

Believe it or not: even the smallest crack in your window glass could be driving up your energy costs. Such cracks will cause hot or cold drafts to enter from the outside, and cold or heated air to escape your home.

The last thing you need is to have a small crack worsen in the middle of a chilly December night in Sacramento. That’s why it is important to have the window replaced if there is any sign of a crack in the glass.

5. You have a hard time opening and closing your windows

If your windows are tough to open or close, it may be due to improper installation, warping, or other issues. While these windows may seem to be more of a nuisance than anything else, it is likely that they could also be having problems with the following:

• Energy efficiency
• Durability
• Appearance

If you have one or more windows that are a struggle to open or close, then you’d likely benefit by having them repaired or replaced.

If you notice any of these signs in your home windows, contact a trusted Sacramento home window replacement company like California Energy Consultant Service today for a consultation. Replacing these windows will improve the look and value of your home, and more importantly, lower your energy bills.

Choosing the right replacement windows involves more than a quick trip to Lowes or Home Depot. There are countless options to choose from, factors to consider, and, most importantly, the need for adequate installation that requires the expertise of professionals.

It is for that reason that we’ve put together this step-by-step how-to guide to help you get the best replacement windows for your home in or around Sacramento County.

Do you need replacement windows or newly constructed windows?

Before shopping around for home window replacements, you should first make sure they are actually what you need. Replacement windows are designed to use your existing window frame. If the window frames in your Folsom or Roseville home are damaged, rotted, or warped, you’re better off getting newly constructed windows that will replace both the window and the frame.

If you are having a difficult time determining if your window frames are in good shape or not, don’t stress: give California Energy Consultant Service a call for a window replacement consultation in your home.

Prioritize your needs based on what matters most to you

Once you’ve determined that you need replacement windows in your Sacramento County home, the next step you should take is to determine the most important features that you want the windows to have.

With so many home replacement window options available to you, prioritizing your needs will help you narrow your search. You’ll want to consider the following factors when choosing the perfect replacement windows for your home:

• Functionality
• Appearance
• Cost

Each homeowner will likely have a different preference regarding which of those three factors are most important, so it is best to think of your own needs when coming to a decision.

Functionality – What factors should you consider?

As you shop for replacement windows in Sacramento or Yolo Counties, you’ll want to think about the specific functionality that you want your windows to have. To help you get started, here are some factors to consider as you begin window-shopping.

• Insulation and thermal comfort
• Energy efficiency
• Preventing condensation
• Improved ventilation
• Noise reduction
• Increased natural light

Each of these functionalities will likely appeal to different individuals, so it is best to consider your situation.

For example, if your home is on one of the busier streets in Roseville, then you may want to consider replacement windows that eliminate or reduce outside noise. If saving money on your electric bill is a top priority, then you’ll want to shop for replacement home windows that keep hot air in and cold air out, and vice-versa.

Appearance – Matching your replacement windows to your home

For some homeowners, the overall look and style of replacement windows is far more important than functionality or cost. If you fall into that category, or you at least moderately value the appearance of your windows, you’ll want to consider these factors when picking out replacement windows for your Sacramento home.

• Size and shape
• Materials used in the window frame
• The style of your interior décor

By identifying the size and shape of the window(s) that you’re replacing, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices. If you plan to replace only one or two of the windows in your home, you may want to shop for replacement windows that are similar in style to maintain a consistent look.

The overall cost of replacement windows

When considering the cost of replacement windows, you can either think about the money out-of-pocket upfront, or over the long haul.

Just because a replacement window is more expensive than another does not mean it is the best option available to you. It is best to consult with window replacement professionals at California Energy Consultant Service to make the right choice for your Sacramento County home.

Some cost factors that you’ll want to consider include:

• Cost of insulation
• Maintenance costs
• Length and cost of warranty
• The average lifespan of the replacement windows
• Impact on energy bills
• Impact on home value

Installation

One of the most common mistakes people make when buying replacement windows is having them improperly installed.

Improper installation can cause the following issues:

• Water leaks
• Difficulty opening and closing windows
• Improper sealing
• Increased energy bills

If you believe you may need replacement windows for your Sacramento or El Dorado Hills home, contact California Energy Consultant Service for a consultation. We offer replacement windows from the best manufacturers in the industry, including Simonton, Milgard, Ply Gem, and Marvin.

Our window replacement specialists will help you pick out the best replacement windows for your home, and professionally install them. With our help, your replacement windows will look great and help you save money!

Three types of window styles for you to consider include:

• Double Hung Windows
• Sliding Windows
• Casement Windows

How Double Hung Windows Can Save You Money

Window replacement professionals in Sacramento agree: double hung windows are a great choice for energy efficiency.

Some of their features include:

• Easy access for cleaning
• Traditional look
• Conveniently fit into most window spaces

If you decide on double hung windows for your Yolo County home, you want to make sure they are Energy Star certified. Energy Star is a government agency that verifies for consumers like you whether a product is energy efficient and good for the environment.

How Sliding Windows Can Save You Money

Sliding windows are double paned windows that slide back and forth on a grid. According to studies by Energy Star, switching from a single pane window to a double pane window can save you up to $111 a year on your energy bills.

Double pane glass is a preferred window replacement because the outside protects your home from external conditions. In between the inside panel of glass is a pocket of air that widens the gap between the outside panel and the inside panel. The result is a more controlled temperature in your home.

Sliding windows also have a number of great home benefits, including saving you space. Our Sacramento window replacement specialists at California Energy Consultant Service often install these windows in the following areas of your home:

• Patios
• Decks
• Walkways

Sliding windows are also a preferred choice of Sacramento homeowners because they have a wide choice of designs.

These styles include:

• Victorian
• Colonial
• Queen Anne

With sliding windows you get both savings and style in one!

How Casement Windows Can Save You Money

Casement windows are crank operated and give you an unobstructed view because they do not have internal siding.  But what is really great about these windows is the low-E coating on their glass.

Low-E stands for low-emissivity. In other words, the special spray applied to these glass panes prevent heat or cool air from seeping out of the interior of your home. This low-E feature on casement windows ensures you don’t have to increase your heat or air-conditioning due to loss of temperature.

Some popular types of casement windows include:

• Simonton Vinyl Windows
• Marvin Casement Windows

Sacramento home window replacement  professionals recommend any of these three types of windows. They’re especially great picks if you’re looking to save money on your energy bills. These three windows come with all the great energy saving features like double-pane glass, Energy Star certified, and low-E coated glass.

Whether you live in Yolo County or West Sacramento, the window replacement pros at Cal Energy can come to your home today and fit your home with energy saving windows. Contact us today and find out why we’re the best when it comes to window replacement and installation.

Would you like to see the cost of your energy bills go down? Well, you can make that dream a reality by buying energy efficient replacement windows for your home. Your windows are a major source of protection from the outside weather conditions in the warmest and coldest months in Sacramento.

Knowing the kind of features to look for in energy saving replacement windows is important in decreasing the cost of your energy bills. So when shopping for energy efficient windows you want to make sure they have these three types of features:

• They are Dual paned
• Made with Low-E glass
• Certified by Energy Star

Knowing how each of these features will save you money on your energy bills will make you a smart consumer and guarantee that your window-shopping excursion is a successful one. So before you purchase any of the above three window styles for your Sacramento home, make sure you know about the energy saving features they come with.

What are Dual Paned Windows?

Certain windows are made with a single pane of glass, while others are made with two panes of glass. A window with two panes of glass is known as a dual paned window. Dual paned windows are the best kinds of windows when it comes to energy efficacy.

Dual paned windows block out cold or hot air and maintain temperatures in your Sacramento home far better than single pane windows. That is because these windows have an air pocket between the two panes of glass. These pockets acts like a buffer between the temperatures indoors and outdoors, which ensures your home is energy efficient, and you’re spared from the hassle of installing plastic sheeting or storm windows.

What is Low E-Glass? 

Low-e stands for low-emissivity. This type of glass is coated with a special sealant that gives your window’s glass extra insulation. Replacement windows that are not made with low-e are susceptible to cold and hot air seeping through them. When outside temperatures can penetrate your home, you’re forced to raise the heat or turn on the air-conditioning. As a result, your energy bills go up.

What Make Something Energy Star Certified?

You want to find a replacement window that is Energy Star certified. This is a certification given by the government for products they believe are energy efficient. Energy Star certified windows are known to save Sacramento homeowners money and are good for the environment.

In fact, Energy Star says their certified windows will save you the following:

• $126 to $465 a year on your energy bills
• $27 to $111 if you switch from single pane windows to double pane windows

If you’re living in the Sacramento area you’re going to want to talk to the premier Sacramento home window replacement company in California Energy Consultant Service. We have a team of energy consultants you can speak with about your needs.

We also offer Double-Hung Windows, Single-Hung Windows, and Sliding Windows with all three of the energy saving features discussed above. Even better, we have trained specialists readily available to install new replacement windows in your Sacramento County home quick and easy.