If you own an older home and the windows have never been changed, it is probably time to consider an upgrade to some new windows that will help you save money and provide the look you want for your home. If you have been holding out because your home has a specific look and feel to it, there are custom windows available that will look just like the old ones you have now. The difference is, they will be better at keeping heat and air conditioning in and the elements out.

Where Is That Draft Coming From?

If you have a draft in your home and you can't seem to find the source, check your windows. Older windows may be allowing outside air into your home and letting the air inside escape. One way to check for drafts is to light a candle and place it near the window. If the flame moves inward, you have air getting in past the window frame. If it moves toward the window, your heat and air conditioning are escaping around the window, costing you money every month. If you have either one of these situations happening in your home, it is time to consider upgrading the windows.

Get Your Windows Inspected

If you have decided to look at options to upgrade your windows, give your local window contractor a call and ask them to send someone out to look at what you have and give you an estimate on new windows. They will inspect the windows that are there to see where your problem areas are and make recommendations to you. If you want to try and match the same style or look of your current windows, ask the contractor about what is available to do that. Most window companies have options that will allow you to keep the older styling but with a new dual-pane, energy-efficient window.

Installing the New Windows

Installing the new windows in your home is a big job and while the contractor will try and cause as little disruption to your home as possible, there is some flexibility that is required during the process. If you ordered custom windows for your home they may not all come at the same time, but even if they do, you can opt to have the contractor install them in groups. Maybe all the bedrooms, then the living room, then the kitchen, etc. Talk to the contractor about which ones will take the longest and work out a plan that works for you and them. Keep in mind that the contractor is going to want to get the windows in as soon as he can so he can move the crew to another job -- and remember, the sooner the work is complete, the sooner your household can get back to normal activities. For more information, contact companies like Economy Glass Inc.