Common Replacement Window and Patio Door Questions

When condensation appears on your replacement windows and doors, this is a sign it’s time to reduce the humidity level in your home. Some simple ways to do this include increasing ventilation in your attic or crawl space and using an exhaust fan while bathing and cooking. 

Generally speaking, an insert replacement does not disturb the interior millwork or exterior siding. This is because the installation involves simply placing a new window inside the existing frame. Therefore, an insert replacement is the less costly option, and you’ll be able to conserve your interior millwork. 

There are two potential issues that you should consider when deciding on an insert over full frame replacement. First, since the insert will fit inside the existing frame, the frame reduces the glass area. Because of this, the new window will be smaller than the old one. Second, since the existing frame is staying put, it will need to be checked to make sure it was properly insulated and air sealed originally. Regardless of how efficient the new window is, frame deterioration can still become a problem. 

In contrast, full frame replacements are typically slightly more expensive than insert replacements. However, most homeowners find them to be a better investment in the long run. A full frame replacement requires installers to remove the entire window frame and sash in order to install the new window. This way, installers can inspect the framework around the window for rot, mold, and other issues. At Renewal by Andersen of Fargo-Bismarck, we install both insert and full frame replacements, custom-sized and manufactured just for your home. 

There are two base styles of patio doors: sliding and hinged. Like with windows, we define styles of patio doors based on their operational functions. The sliding patio door is generally less costly. In addition, it has the classic look of the patio doors that many of us know and love. Sliding patio doors also save space by eliminating the need for doors to swing outward and inward like hinged patio doors. 

For colder climates, like that of the Upper Midwest, it may be difficult for you to manage hinged doors. In the winter months, large accumulations of snow can block doors and render them inoperable. 

Security has always been a concern when discussing patio doors. To address this, we offer multi-point locking mechanisms for sliding doors and a 5-point locking system for hinged doors. These locking systems not only allow for greater security, but they also assist in the realignment of the door whenever it is locked. For even more peace of mind, we offer an auxiliary foot lock option on some sliding doors. 

A common misconception about patio door styles is that the “French door” is a third style of door all its own. While “sliding” and “hinged” patio door styles are defined by the way they function, the term “French door” refers to the way a door panel looks. Luckily, if you are a fan of the appearance of French doors, Renewal by Andersen of Fargo-Bismarck offers them in both sliding and hinged styles. 

If your patio entrance is larger than the typical width of 9 to 10 feet, Renewal by Andersen of Fargo-Bismarck can install a three-panel system to seamlessly fill the space. The third panel is fixed in place and attaches to either a sliding or hinged patio door, creating a clean, functional look without compromising style or performance. 

Each manufacturer has their own process for creating windows, and every component has an effect on price. This goes for materials used, manufacturing costs, and warranties. With windows and doors, there is a big difference between “cost” and “value”. Some materials perform better in hot climates, and others in cold climates. However, the best replacement windows, like Renewal by Andersen, perform equally well in both! In addition, we use Fibrex ® material for our window frames, which does not crack, pit, corrode, or rot, offering superior durability backed by our industry-leading warranties.  

While it is next to impossible to give someone an exact ROI for home improvement, there are definitely some projects that are easily achievable and offer high returns. Many homeowners overlook curb appeal, but a few updates and an eye-catching design can add value quickly. Nowhere is this clearer than with the two biggest ROI-increasing projects: roofing and replacement windows. If you’ve house-hunted, you know their age is one of the first things prospective buyers ask about. 

To create value in your home, it’s not enough for windows to be new; they also have to be high quality. Thankfully, Renewal by Andersen is one of the most efficient, well-constructed, and best warranted replacement window brands in the market. With all our windows, we offer a 20-year warranty on the glass and Fibrex frame, a 10-year warranty on hardware, and a two-year warranty on the installation. 

At Western Products and Renewal by Andersen of Fargo-Bismarck, we offer a variety of home improvement products and services to boost your curb appeal and add value to your home. In addition to energy-efficient replacement windows and doors, we also install durable seamless steel siding and accessories, asphalt and metal roofing, seamless gutters and gutter protection systems, custom window treatments, and more! 

Although there are many varieties of replacement windows, there are six fundamental styles, each with their own distinct list of benefits. 

First, the picture window is a fixed panel unit. This window is non-operational and used for viewing purposes only. Next, the most common window in homes is the casement window. You can crank this window outward to open it. If you want to combine the view of the picture window with the function of the casement window, then the awing window is the perfect choice. Awning windows maximize viewing, but also crank outwards to allow airflow. 

Another type is the “hung” window. It comes in two styles of single hung and double hung. Single hung windows open from the bottom. This also means you can only operate one sash. Double hung windows may look the same, but they open on the top and bottom so you can operate both sashes. This type of window can also come with an “easy clean” feature. With this, you can fold the window panels in and wash trouble-free. The last style is the  sliding or gliding window, which opens by sliding its panes to the side. 

Unlike standard, pre-built windows, our custom-made replacement windows require a longer lead time in order to be produced. Custom windows don’t come in typical “stock” sizes because they’re designed to precisely fit your existing window openings. An exact fit ensures a tight and weatherproof seal, allowing for a more energy-efficient window. Even further, Renewal by Andersen of Fargo-Bismarck offers premium window warranties and trained professionals for a quality installation. 

Yes! Over time, breakage is bound to happen on any window. So, when any element of your Renewal by Andersen replacement window is no longer performing as intended, contact us and we will order you a new part. If you know which part needs to be replaced, but are unsure of your window model, find the barcode sticker with identification information on your window. Send a photo of the barcode to our team, and we will be able to identify the window and order correlating parts. However, if you do not know which part needs to be replaced, one of our service technicians would be happy to schedule a visit and take a look. 

While glass replacement may seem like a simple fix, this type of repair may actually make your window less efficient and also increase seal failure. In contrast, when the entire window is replaced, you are guaranteed a high-quality factory seal.