Seattle has some of the most eye-catching views in the country, and when it comes to houses in the area, unique architectural design is on full display with rich wood accent work and fine detail.
Entry doors are a fantastic way to show your personal style, especially in subdivisions where the homes are similar, and you can use color to stand out and enhance your home's curb appeal. Whether you are looking to stay with a traditional style or move to a more modern style, there are numerous styles to choose from in both windows and doors.
However, be sure to consider Seattle's climate when you choose window and door material. The excess of rain and moisture in the area causes some area-specific issues like mold and mildew growth, insect intrusion, and wood rot.
Seattle Door and Window Replacement Services
Replacing windows and doors
Termites are common in the Seattle area, and raw, untreated wood is attractive to them. Solid wood doors and window frames, if they're not properly maintained, can invite termites and insects. The best materials to stand up to the Pacific Northwest's climate are composite, vinyl, or fiberglass for windows and composite, wood veneer, fiberglass, or steel for entry doors.
Energy efficiency is a factor that you must consider as well, as older windows and doors often allow drafts and leak interior temperatures out. You have two choices when having windows installed:
- Replacement window installation, which simply replaces the window unit, not the frame or trim
- Full, new-construction window installation, which replaces all parts of the window, including flashing, frame, and trim
Remember that old wood window frames can be already affected by termites, weather damage, or mold growth. Installing new windows from the frame up ensures a tight fit and better energy efficiency.
Older doors made of solid wood can sag, allowing drafts, and also are vulnerable to rot and insect damage. A better alternative to solid wood entry doors is a wood/vinyl blend or fiberglass. Vinyl and fiberglass can now be made to mimic wood patterns, which is a beautiful option for traditional home styles.
Steel can be very heavy and pull the door out of alignment, so while it's ultimately safe, steel isn't always the best choice. New materials increase energy efficiency and are safe and fire resistant.
How to know if your windows or doors need replacement
Energy efficiency is not only something that can save you money on your utility bills, it also increases resale value in a home. When you're ready to replace your home's windows and doors, it is a good idea to go ahead and upgrade to the most energy-efficient products possible. Look for an ENERGY STAR rating on the products you decide on.
If you have noticed any of the following signs, it is time for new windows or doors:
- Drafts indoors
- HVAC system running continuously
- Termite damage
- Wood rot
- Foggy windows
- Difficulty closing or opening windows or doors
The age of your home is also an important factor in the decision to install new windows or doors. The possibility of lead paint in older homes built prior to 1978 is both a great reason to replace your windows and doors and an important reason you must hire a professional contractor.
Lead paint can be released into the air by sanding, cutting, or simple demolition. Hiring contractors who are EPA lead-safe certified is a good practice. This means that they have been trained properly, and you can rest assured any contaminants will not reach the environment or your family.
Look for memberships and certifications as you're choosing a great contractor:
- EPA Lead-Safe certification
- National Association of the Remodeling
- Industry (NARI) certifications and accreditations
- National Glass Association membership
- International Door Association membership
The Best Picks for the Best Seattle Window and Door Replacement Companies
When you decide to replace your windows and doors, finding an experienced, reputable window and door replacement company isn't always easy. The survey team at Best Pick Reports reaches out to Seattle homeowners every year to find the best window and door replacement companies near you.
Every Best Pick company is completely researched annually to make sure they provide high-quality work and excellent customer service. Our company qualification process means that the companies we recommend are the best of the best, and we're proud to present the results of our surveys in a format that is clear and easy to navigate.
When you work with a Best Pick window and door replacement contractor in Seattle, you'll have a great experience—we guarantee it.