Replacing Commercial Windows: Everything You Need to Know

In the United States, windows consume thirty percent of all commercial heating and cooling energy. This statistic explains how inefficiency can make your energy bills skyrocket.

But replacing commercial windows in your building(s) can be intimating. There are so many choices and factors to consider. It is also downright expensive. A single window can cost anywhere from several hundred dollars to upwards of four figures.

How do you know when you have to replace your commercial windows? And what do you need to know about the process?

Read on to find out!

Are New Commercial Windows Right for Your Building?

There are two main reasons why you might want to install new windows. First, they are in an old building. They were made and installed before many energy-saving technologies were invented.

Older windows consist of only a single pane and may have an old-fashioned kind of coating. Modern windows have two panes as well as tints or coating that block out various kinds of light. Installing new windows with these features can save your business a great deal of money.

The second reason for installing new commercial windows is also age-related. They may be showing signs of wear and tear (think warping or rotting), or you can feel air coming in when you stand next to them. It’s also possible that unwanted outside noise is getting through.

Further, your employees may be complaining about the windows in the building. Perhaps they are saying the windows are interfering with their ability to work.

Considerations on Buying Your New Windows

Once you have decided to have the new windows installed, you need to begin thinking about the selection and installation process. This is a big decision.

After all, the windows may be in your building for the next 35 to 50 years. They will affect the daily life of all the people who work there.

The process, though, is much easier with a solid and reputable company like Chicago Window Guys. When looking for your installation company, you don’t need to get ten quotes. Just make sure to do your research and get to know the actual people involved in the undertaking.

What you will have to consider — and discuss with your installation company — are all the different possible features. For example, should your windows be tinted (bronze, grey, green or blue)?

Or is it better for them to be coated with a low e-metallic layer? Each of these options blocks different kinds of light and each has a different price per window.

There are also different replacement methods. Some are less invasive than others, and they range from taking everything out (window, frame, and sash) to removing only the window.

Your installation company will help you determine which of these is best for your building. Some of the factors you will want to consider are:

the condition of your building
your heating and cooling systems
climate
the state of your current windows

Finally, you will need to discuss budgeting and/or financing concerns. Commercial windows are more expensive than residential windows. They are thicker and more durable, and these qualities make installation more challenging.

Conclusion

Although your decision to install new windows is a big one, it will reap long-term benefits. Chicago Window Guys will be at your side through the whole process. We will work with you to find the best and highest-quality product for your budget.

Why not contact us today for a free price quote?