Introduction

Windows are a crucial part of your home comfort and energy efficiency. As we head into the rainy months here in Bellingham, now is a great time to check in on your home’s window health.

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As we look ahead into the upcoming rainy seasons, you may be eying the windows in your house that gave you troubles last fall and winter. Whether its the leaky window that has a semi-permanent washcloth on the windowsill or the one that everyone avoids sitting next to for fear of catching a cold, you probably know which windows are in need of replacement.

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But, like many homeowners, you may not be sure where to start. Here are the questions we typically hear regarding window replacements:

1. How do I know its time to replace my windows?
2. Can I replace just one window or is it better to do them all at once?
3. I’ve heard about rebate programs but how do they work?
4. How much will it cost to replace my windows?

We’ve replaced windows on dozens of homes and commercial spaces and are happy to provide information that will guide your upcoming window strategy.

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How Do I Know its Time to Replace My Windows?

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Drafts and Cold Spots

If its December and you’re sitting by the window, bundled in three blankets while watching Netflix, that’s a problem. Drafts and cold spots are clear indicators that your windows are more like wind filters than shields. And with increasing utility costs, there’s never been a better time to assess your windows for energy efficiency.

A quick test is to feel around the edges of the windows while its shut. If you feel any drafts or cold areas, you are likely losing valuable heat through your window. This is a sign to consider replacing this window.

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Difficulty in Opening or Closing Windows

Wrestling with a stubborn window every time you want a breeze is exhausting. Many older homes in the Bellingham area have pulleys to open them, and may even have clasps that are painted shut. On my first home, our windows were a pain to lift open, and felt like I was negotiating one side to the other. Difficulty opening and closing windows are signs of poor sealing (which can lose heat) and present a safety issue for emergencies.

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Now is a good time to test opening and closing your windows to check for any stuck-ness that may be a sign of damage or poor seals.

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Visible Damage or Decay

You probably already know which windows in your house need to be replaced, and thats probably what drove you to this page. Especially here in the Pacific Northwest, even small cracks that allow water between seals or into the wood can multiply over time and turn into mold and mildew issues. A good general rule is that if your window looks damaged, its probably worse than you think underneath.

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A quick test for this is to take a credit card or business card and slide it around the edges of the window, whether its a frame or window trim. If you see debris from paint or material flake off, its likely a sign of decaying wood or mildew that is ready to be replaced.

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Condensation Between Glass Panes

We live in a rainy part of the world. It seems that every movie that shows the Northwest depicts scenes of misting forests and foggy windows. But the reality is, your windows shouldn’t be foggy, even in the winter. The reason that windows fog up is due to the warm, moist air inside your home coming into contact with the cold window.

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If you’re seeing consistently fogging windows, this is likely a sign to replace the single-pane windows with double-panes, which will greatly impact your home’s energy bill.

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One quick test is checking your energy bill year-over-year in the winter months. If (adjusting for inflation), your bill is creeping up higher and higher, you may be paying to heat the great outdoors with your old single-pane windows.

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Can I Replace Just One Window or Do I Have to Do Them All At Once?

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Short answer, yes. You can always just replace one thing.

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While its well known that if you’re going to replace one, its best to replace all, sometimes that doesn’t mesh with our budget. If you have 5 windows in your living room, but only one or two are showing signs of mold or damage, our advice is to replace the worst windows first. Even if this means doing one at a time, and even if they wont 100% match your other windows if you space them out by a few years, when considering the utility savings and potential damage to your home, go ahead and replace that one window.

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Of course, if you can commit to a full-scale replacement project, you’ll be rewarded with cost savings in both materials and labor, as well as increased savings in your utility bills. So if you’ve got the extra cash, this is our preferred option.

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I’ve Heard About Rebate Programs, but How Do They Work?

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If someone’s handing out free money to help you replace your windows, you definitely want in on that. Rebate programs are basically your ticket to saving cash while giving your home a facelift with energy-efficient windows. In Bellingham, this is run by Puget Sound Energy (we’ve included a link below). Puget Sound Energy can provide a rebate of up to 50% of the total cost of your windows, so be sure to follow the link and see if you qualify!

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To qualify, your windows need to meet the specific standards set by the rebate program. We're talking windows with features like double or triple glazing, fancy Low-E coatings, or a high Energy Star rating. Once you’ve picked and installed the right windows, you’ll need to prove it—think receipts, product details, and efficiency ratings. It’s all about making sure your windows are actually saving energy, not just looking nice!

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How much will you get? Well, it depends. Some programs give you a set amount per window, while others offer a percentage of the total cost. But make sure to check the deadlines and fine print so you don’t miss out. It's not a lot of work and can really make a difference in your utility bills in the long run.

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For more information, check out the PSE guide at the bottom of the page!

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How Much Will It Cost to Replace My Windows?

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Replacing windows isn’t exactly cheap, but the cost can swing pretty wildly depending on what you’re looking for. On average, you’re looking at anywhere between $300 and $1,200 per window, and that includes installation. If you’re going for basic vinyl windows, you’re on the cheaper end. But if you’re dreaming of custom wood frames or something fancier, be ready to shell out a bit more.

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The window style you pick plays a big role in the price too. Standard double-hung or sliding windows? Fairly affordable. But if you’re eyeing a bay or bow window for that picture-perfect view, the price tag’s going up thanks to their size and design complexity. Energy-efficient windows (you know, the ones with double or triple glazing and Low-E coatings) cost more upfront, but your future self will thank you when the energy bills drop.

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Don’t forget about labor costs. If your old frames are a pain to remove or there’s extra prep work involved, that’s going to bump up the total. Best bet? Get a few quotes from trustworthy installers, and don’t forget to ask about rebates or financing to help soften the blow.

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Conclusion

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We’ve talked a lot about windows. In this rainy climate, we see so many homes in Whatcom County that are showing the first signs of needing replacement, and we want to empower people to understand their options.

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So if you’re considering replacing one or more of your windows, here are the ups and downs:

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Old windows can do the following to your home:

• Allow heat to escape, dramatically raising your energy bills
• Add drafts and cold spots to your favorite living (or sleeping) areas
• Left unchecked, can do further damage to your home’s structure

Benefits of new windows:

• Reduction in energy bills
• Warmer, more comfortable living spaces
• No more leaking windows damaging your frames and windowsills
• Easy access in case of emergencies
• Increased aesthetic appeal and value of your home

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So if you’re heading into the fall and winter months and you’re experiencing any of the condensation, window damage, cold spots, or leaking that we discussed here, give us a call or shoot us an email, and we’d love to chat about options for your home’s windows!