Windows Basics
According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs Value Report 2008-2009 for the Chicagoland area, vinyl & wood replacement windows are 2 of the top 5 most valuable improvements you can make to your home!
Benefits of Replacement Windows
- Improve the value of your home
- Help keep your home warm in the winter, and cool in the summer
- Increase the energy efficiency of your home
- Increase convenience with features such as tilt-in for easy cleaning
- Improve the aesthetics of your home
- AND, best of all, replacement windows can pay for themselves over time in energy cost savings and possible tax credits! Tax credits for 2011 are for 10% of the cost of the windows, up to $200. We can assist you in finding windows that will take advantage of this wonderful opportunity!
Hollingsworth Home Improvement - your Safest Choice for a replacement window contractor
- We’re experts! We’ve been installing windows for over 25 years! We’re experts on both wood & vinyl replacement windows.
- We’re bonded & insured! We are fully bonded & insured, which protects you from any injuries that may occur on your property. We will happily provide you with a Certificate of Insurance from our insurer upon request. Our estimator also carries copies of all our documentation and will be happy to review them with you during your appointment.
- We’re extremely highly rated & reviewed! The Chicago and Northern Illinois Better Business Bureau has awarded us an A+ rating – its highest praise. We have an A ranking on Angieslist.com and have our own collection of testimonials available here on our website.
- We offer the best warranties! Not only do we exclusively use materials that provide superior durability & warranty protection, we couple that with our own 5-year workmanship warranty. And given that we’ve been in business for over 25 years, you’re assured peace of mind.
But there are so many options! Confused about vinyl replacement, pocket replacement, full frame replacement, new construction replacement, etc??
Full Frame Replacement (also referred to as new construction replacement)
This type of window replacement involves completely removing the old window – including all trim interior and exterior and the full window frame. After checking the framing members and adjusting the opening size as required the new unit is installed. New trim is installed inside, and trim adjustments are made on the exterior as needed. This type of replacement is a good choice for homeowners wanting to replace existing units with energy efficient windows while maintaining the current look of your home. These units are available in wood, fiberglass or vinyl. Marvin Ultimate, Integrity by Marvin, Quaker, and Andersen all offer these type of installations. Details are available on our Full Frame Replacement Window page.
Pocket replacement (commonly referred to as vinyl replacement windows, but there are wood options as well)
This type of window replacement involves only removing the operating portion of your existing windows. The frame and trim remain in place. The new unit is then installed using the old frame. Exterior trim is typically wrapped in aluminum. This type of replacement is great for homeowners wanting to upgrade the energy efficiency of their home without changing the interior trim. These units are typically made of vinyl and can either be vinyl inside, wood grain, or wood veneer. Excellent choices for this type of install are Revere Sovereign or Berkshire, Hayfield, or Marvin Ultimate Insert. Details on each of these windows can be found on our Pocket Replacement Window page.