Installing windows may be one of the most energy-efficient and aesthetically pleasing investments one can make in their home. There are many styles and brands to choose from, but doing a bit of research can help the homeowner make the right choice for their needs. Besides the windows and the Residential Window Contractors in St Paul, below are some other important factors for homeowners to consider.
Building Permits
If the contractor asks the homeowner if they want a permit for window replacement, that should be taken as a warning sign. Most places require permits for window installation, and it’s not the homeowner’s or contractor’s call. Getting the right permits will ensure that the contractor is following building codes and that the work is done correctly.
Egress Codes
When replacing a home’s windows, egress codes are one of the most important factors. Most communities base their requirements on the IRC, or International Residential Codes. One window in each bedroom must be at least 24 inches tall and 20 inches wide, and the sill can be no more than 44 inches from the floor. If a window opening does not meet code, Builders And Remodelers Inc will have to enlarge it at a higher cost.
Lead Paint
The EPA’s rules on lead-based paint state that if a contractor replaces a window in a pre-1978 home, they must test for lead on previously painted surfaces. If the paint tests positive, the renovations can only be done by a firm certified by the EPA.
Window Type
The most common window types are new construction and retrofit, with the main difference being in the frame.
* New construction windows are used in new homes, and they typically have a mounting flange that sits
directly over the framing around the window opening.
* Retrofit windows cover the existing window frame.
In some cases, new windows are required. This may apply when decreasing or enlarging an existing window’s size, or when adding a window to a wall.
Do Some Research
Because new windows are an investment and an improvement to the home, it’s important for homeowners to learn about all of their options. By doing the right research, a customer can choose the right Residential Window Contractors in St Paul who will make appropriate recommendations and follow building codes for the community.
