Should You Replace Your New Jersey Home’s Doors or Windows First?

Now that you’ve decided to replace your New Jersey home’s windows and patio doors, you might be wondering if you can do both projects at the same time or if it makes more sense to do the windows first and then the doors, or the doors first and then the windows. To help you decide whether you should replace your aging doors or home windows first depends on a number of important factors. The experts at Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey suggest you choose one of the options below based on your budget, the condition of your current windows and doors and the available design choices.

Why Not Do Them All at One Time?

If your home has original windows and patio doors throughout, chances are they are all equally ready to retire. Yes, it is a large investment to replace ten to 15 windows (or more) and one or more patio doors doors all at one time. But with tax incentives and our current promotions, it is probably less expensive than you imagine. If you think you can’t swing the whole job, even with discounts, deciding which one to do first is a personal preference when all windows and doors are in the same condition. You might, however, consider the total area of windows compared to doors. If you are going to replace a whole house of windows, the total area is probably much larger than one or two doors. If you’re looking at energy efficiency, replacing all the windows will probably make a larger impact on your energy bills than replacing one or two doors, unless of course, that door is letting in gale-force drafts.

Consider a Combination of Windows and Doors

If your home has some broken windows letting in large drafts and a damaged patio door, the best approach is to fix the biggest energy wasters first. The sooner you address the gaps around dilapidated frames and restore full integrity, the sooner you will feel safe and comfortable in your home. Your energy expenses will drop immediately, too. You can order replacement windows to complete the job later when your budget allows.

Cosmetic Renovations

If you’re replacing the windows and sliding or French doors in your home to improve curb appeal or change the home’s appearance, it makes more sense to replace the windows first. Unless your patio door is extremely unsightly, you’ll enjoy a bigger decorating impact from windows since they are spread throughout the home, and the patio door only affects your decorating scheme in one room (or maybe two, if you have an open floor plan).

There really isn’t a “right or wrong” decision here. If you really want to get your new hinged French Patio Doors installed for an upcoming party or gathering, go ahead. Or if your doors stick so much they make you think twice about enjoying your yard in spring and summer, go ahead and replace those so you can get more enjoyment from your home.

If you want to replace the windows over the course of a few months in stages, consider replacing the upper floors first, the main floor next, and finally the basement. Heat naturally rises; energy-efficient windows on the upper floor will trap more heated air indoors so your furnace doesn’t have to work so hard to keep the house comfortable. You’ll enjoy bigger savings more quickly with this approach.

If you are more concerned about curb appeal, replace the front windows in the first stage and then the sides and rear-facing windows and patio doors, followed by the basement windows. That will make the most difference in your home’s exterior appearance

Keep in mind that prices for cosmetic renovations with replacement windows and patio doors for your New Jersey home vary depending on your design choices. Every decision impacts your final cost—from choosing between sliding or casement windows to selecting polished hardware vs. something more contemporary. Accessories like window screens and grilles also go a long way to creating the atmosphere you want, and they’ll impact your budget, but probably not as much as you think.

Focus on Energy Savings

When you’re trying to save energy, replacing windows is your best bet; you’ll see a dramatic difference in your heating/cooling costs, while patio doors impact your home’s environment less. Why? Your patio door most likely affects a smaller area of interior space. Preventing air leaks in a larger area naturally improves overall energy management.

Follow the Budget

When price is the only determining factor, the best approach is a three-step process.

1. Decide how much money you can afford and how much you are willing to invest based on your home’s value, how long you plan to stay in the home and your overall design goals. Keep in mind that replacement windows with a Transferable Warranty add more to your re-sale value than windows that don’t have this feature.
2. Meet with a Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey window specialist to select frames styles, glass types, hardware, screens and finish colors. Ask for a separate estimate for the patio doors and the replacement windows.
3. Compare your budget with the two estimates and make your decision.

Getting Started with Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey

Now that you have some suggestions to help you decide whether to replace the windows or patio doors in your home, you probably want to get started. This part is easy. Just fill out the short form at the top of this page and one of our consultants will call you with more details about planning a home renovation project. Can’t wait for more information? Dial (866) 609-5033 now and one of our design consultants will come out to meet with you at your home at your convenience.

Check out this post for more information on what to do if your windows are leaking.