Why Should I Replace My Windows?

• They are energy inefficient! Old, worn-out windows or patio doors are often leaky, let in too much air and can result in high energy bills during peak heating and cooling months. In addition condensation or fogging can occur between the glass of older windows hampering your ability to see through them.

• Your old windows make your home look old and tired. Perhaps you have old storm windows that detract from the look of your home or maybe you want to contemporize the look of your home with a slider, bay or bow or a casement. New windows could help decrease your energy bill AND increase the value of your home at the same time!

• You can’t open or close your windows. Perhaps the sash or the hardware is broken or the window is painted shut. Windows that are painted shut are often older and of poor quality. Operational trouble can also result from a warped frame or sash often caused by your house settling, which skews the rough opening where the window sits. In this case, the entire window or patio door must be removed and the opening reframed and squared. After that, the most common course of action is to insert a brand new window or door. Keep in mind that windows that don’t operate correctly could be a matter of life or death if it should prevent escape in the event of a fire.

• Your double-hung window won’t stay open. If it’s an older window, there’s most likely a problem with the connection to the sash weights. Older double-hung window sash are counterbalanced with heavy weights connected to the sash on a rope. As the windows age, the rope dries out and becomes brittle, eventually breaking.

• Your windows are difficult to clean. Some homes must weather tough environmental conditions such as those in areas of heavy industry or along the shore. Airborne particles in these environments, stick to windows requiring frequent washing. Many double-hung windows now feature tilt-in sash designs enabling the windows to be cleaned from the inside by tilting the sash inward. New windows with grilles built-in between the glass also ease the window cleaning chores.

• Moisture is collecting on your window interiors. Most interior condensation problems are the result of poor household ventilation. By controlling your home’s humidity, you can usually limit interior window condensation.

Why are my windows drafty and will new windows stop the draft?

Drafty windows and air infiltration could have several causes. Improper installation is often the culprit but not always.

• If the windows were improperly installed, the defects can normally be corrected without removing or replacing the window. Proper caulking and flashing should prevent perimeter air leakage.

• However, if the installation twists or racks the window frame causing the sash weatherstrip not to be able to seal the sash to the frame, removal of the window to correct the problem may be necessary. If the problem is installation, you will have to work with the builder or a contractor to correct the problem.

• If the leak is between the frame and the sash and the window has been installed square, plumb, and level and is not twisted or racked, the problem may be construction of the window or window design.

• If your windows are not efficient in your climate and particularly if it does not have insulated glazing, the air may not be leakage but simply cold room air flowing down the surface of the window.

• If the problem is the construction of the window in a new house or a recent retrofit, you will have to work with the builder or contractor and the window manufacturer to correct the problem.

Who should I buy windows from?

You should select a window manufacturer who manufactures and sells energy efficient products (i.e. meets the recommended U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient in your climate), has a reputation for service and stability, and provides a warranty on the unit. The Better Business Bureau is often a good source for the names of businesses you can trust.

What is standard lead time for ordering windows?

Do to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic some orders may be delayed. Please contact customer service for an accurate timeline regarding your specific order.

What do I do if I have a problem with my windows?

Always contact the business from whom you purchased your Mercury Excelum windows originally.  If they are unable to assist you, then you can call us and we will help identify a solution to your problem.