Builder-grade (or builder's grade) is an industry term that typically refers to lower-cost materials used to construct new homes. Builder-grade materials aren't necessarily poor quality but are lower quality than higher-end brands. The lifespan, durability, and other qualities of these materials will also vary between components, so a builder's grade cabinet may last longer than a builder's grade window.
If you've recently bought a home, it's worthwhile to understand the quality and construction of its materials, especially if the house isn't new. You may be able to find the brand used in your windows by looking for stickers on the windows themselves or checking any documentation provided by the previous owners.
What Should You Do If You Have Builder-Grade Windows?
First, don't immediately assume something is wrong with your home. Many brands technically qualify as builder's grade, and they aren't all the same. If you aren't noticing any issues, your windows may be fine, at least for now. If you know the specific window brand, you may want to do some research to determine overall owner impressions and get an idea of its longevity.
Next, you'll want to try to determine the age of your windows. A common complaint with many builder-grade materials is that they don't last as long as higher-quality brands. While a high-quality, well-maintained window may last for decades, a lower-quality builder-grade window may have a substantially lower lifespan.
Knowing the age of your windows can help you decide on your next move. Relatively new windows, even builder-grade ones, are unlikely to fail soon. You may want to consider a replacement if you're noticing drafts or other problems; otherwise, replacement may not be necessary. On the other hand, windows over ten years old may be approaching the end of their lifespan.
Is It Time for a Replacement?
So, you've discovered that you have builder-grade windows and that they're old enough to be a concern – what next? Leaks, drafts, and high energy bills can indicate that your home's windows may be ready to go, so any of these symptoms are a good reason for replacement. However, some signs of aging windows, especially poorer quality ones, may be harder to detect.
If you're not noticing any of these problems, you may still want to contact a window installation contractor for an inspection. An expert can evaluate your current windows, check for problems, and tell you if it's time for a replacement. They can also help you understand the benefits of higher-quality windows and recommend some options to fit your budget.
To learn more, contact a window replacement service in your area.
Share28 July 2022
Moving to a hot climate freed me from dealing with snow and ice in the winter. However, it also brought a lot more heat during the summer. I had resigned myself to paying big bills for cooling nine months out of the year when I found out from a friend that my air conditioner was struggling and need in of repair. Once a technician stopped by and gave my equipment a tune up, my cooling costs were nearly cut in half! This surprising discovery prompted me to head online and blog about my experiences. Even if you and your family only use the air conditioner a few times a month during the summer, you can benefit from my tips on keeping the equipment running smoothly and efficiently. You'll appreciate the combination of cooler indoor temperatures and lower monthly bills.
