Planning to replace your home windows anytime soon? Among the first things you’ll need to consider is the budget. How much are you spending on the home improvement project that is going to save you hundreds of dollars in energy bills? It all comes down to three things: style, size, material, and cost. When looking at the cost, many homeowners focus on the windows’ cost and overlook other hidden costs associated with window replacement. This leads to unexpected expenses that throws the entire budget out of balance.
Knowing there are expenses to anticipate allows you to plan for the window replacement and prepare your pockets for the financial obligation without any surprises. Here are five hidden costs you should know about before beginning your project to make an informed decision when replacing your windows.
1. Permit Fees
Depending on where you live, permit fees may be required for any work done on your home that requires a professional. Make sure to check with your local municipality to determine if permits are needed for this project to avoid fines or delays in getting the job done.
2. Installation Services
Most window replacement companies offer installation services when purchasing from them. It is an additional cost that needs to be considered when budgeting for your window replacement project. It is important to note that some window replacement services may charge extra for special installations such as multiple-story homes or hard-to-reach areas of the home.
3. Removal & Disposal Fees
In addition to installation services, most window replacement companies will charge removal and disposal fees for taking away old windows and disposing of them responsibly. Be sure to ask about this before signing a contract so you can factor it into your overall budget for the project.
4. Weatherproofing & Caulking
Once new windows have been installed, it’s important that they are properly weatherproofed and caulked to protect against drafts and moisture intrusion. It is an additional service most companies offer, but it adds an extra cost to the project’s total price.
5. Painting & Staining
Depending on what type of material you choose for your windows, painting or staining may be necessary to keep them looking their best over time. If you choose wood frames, this will need to be factored into your budget since painting or staining adds an extra cost above and beyond what was originally estimated for the project.
Takeaway
Window replacement can be costly, but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you’re aware of all potential costs ahead of time. By researching these five hidden costs associated with window replacement—permit fees, installation services, removal & disposal fees, weatherproofing & caulking, and painting & staining—you can ensure that all aspects of this project are taken into consideration when estimating the total cost involved with upgrading or replacing your home’s windows. For any assistance with the installation get in touch with us and we will help you find the suitable window installation expert for the task.