How to Replace Windows in Delaware Brick Homes

Delaware, with its mix of coastal and inland environments, presents unique challenges for homeowners when it comes to window replacement. Whether you're in a coastal town like Lewes or a more inland area such as Dover or Wilmington, your brick home is exposed to a variety of weather conditions, including humidity, salt air, cold winters, and summer heat. Replacing windows in a Delaware brick home requires careful consideration of materials that can withstand these conditions while improving energy efficiency and preserving the home’s aesthetic appeal. This guide explains how to replace windows in brick homes in Delaware, from choosing the best materials to understanding the benefits of energy-efficient upgrades.

Top Window Options for Brick Homes in Delaware

Delaware’s climate is marked by humid summers, cold winters, and in coastal areas, exposure to salt air and occasional storms. For brick homes in this region, choosing windows that balance durability, energy efficiency, and weather resistance is key. Renewal by Andersen offers a range of window products designed to handle Delaware’s climate while enhancing the appearance and functionality of brick homes.

Climate Considerations for Delaware:

Humidity and Moisture Resistance: With Delaware’s high humidity levels, especially in coastal areas, windows need to be resistant to moisture. Fibrex® windows, which resist warping, cracking, and mold due to humidity, are an ideal choice. They also stand up to the salt air found in coastal towns like Rehoboth Beach. Energy Efficiency: Delaware experiences cold winters and hot summers, so energy-efficient windows with Low-E glass are essential. These windows help reflect heat in the summer and retain warmth in the winter, improving indoor comfort and reducing energy bills. Storm Protection: Coastal Delaware is occasionally hit by nor’easters and Atlantic storms. Windows with impact-resistant glass and reinforced frames provide added protection against high winds and debris during storms

Is It Time for New Windows? Key Signs to Watch For

In Delaware’s variable climate, older windows can become less efficient and more susceptible to damage. If you notice drafts, condensation between panes, difficulty in opening or closing windows, or rising energy bills, it’s time to consider window replacement. Replacing outdated windows with new, energy-efficient models will not only improve comfort but also help reduce heating and cooling costs.

How Window Replacement Enhances Homes in Delaware

Energy Efficiency

With Delaware’s hot summers and cold winters, energy-efficient windows are a must for homeowners. Renewal by Andersen windows with Fibrex® material and advanced Low-E glass are designed to improve insulation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce reliance on heating and cooling systems. This results in lower energy bills and a more comfortable home year-round.

Noise Reduction

If you live near busy areas such as downtown Wilmington or close to major highways, noise can be a concern. Renewal by Andersen’s windows are engineered with thicker glass and enhanced insulation to reduce noise from the outside, allowing for a quieter, more peaceful indoor environment.

Durability

Delaware’s climate, especially in coastal areas, can cause traditional window materials to deteriorate over time due to moisture, humidity, and salt air. Fibrex® windows are designed to withstand these harsh conditions, making them a durable and low-maintenance option for Delaware homes. They resist the effects of humidity, salt, and temperature fluctuations, ensuring that your windows stay functional and attractive for years.

Enhanced Home Appearance

Delaware’s brick homes, ranging from historic properties in Old New Castle to modern builds in suburban areas, benefit from the right window style. Renewal by Andersen windows come in a wide variety of styles and finishes that complement both traditional and contemporary architectural designs. Whether you’re looking for classic or modern windows, there are options to suit the unique look of your brick home.

Understanding Full Frame and Retrofit Window Options

When replacing windows in a brick home in Delaware, homeowners must choose between full-frame replacement and retrofit installation. Both methods have their advantages, depending on the condition of the existing windows and the goals for the replacement project.

Full Frame Replacement

Full-frame replacement involves removing the entire window, including the frame, down to the rough opening. This method is ideal for homes with older or damaged frames or if you want to maximize energy efficiency. Full-frame replacement offers a better seal and improved insulation, making it a good choice for homes in Delaware’s humid, coastal areas where moisture and drafts are common.

Retrofit Installation

Retrofit installation, also known as insert replacement, involves placing new windows into the existing frame. This method is less invasive and more affordable, making it a popular option for homeowners with well-maintained window frames. However, in Delaware’s humid climate, it’s important to ensure that the existing frames are in excellent condition to prevent future issues with moisture infiltration or drafts.

Retrofitting: How It Works and Why It Matters

Retrofitting refers to installing new windows into existing window frames without removing the original structure. This process is quicker and more cost-effective than full-frame replacement but may not be suitable for homes where the window frames have been compromised by moisture or age. In Delaware, retrofitting can be a viable option if your current frames are still structurally sound and able to provide adequate insulation.

How to Choose the Right Window Insert for Your Home

If retrofitting is the right solution for your home, selecting high-quality window inserts is critical to maintaining energy efficiency and weather resistance. Renewal by Andersen offers high-performance window inserts that fit seamlessly into existing frames, providing enhanced insulation and moisture protection. These inserts are particularly beneficial for Delaware’s climate, offering durability and energy savings.

Common Challenges of Replacing Windows in Brick Homes

Brick homes in Delaware present unique challenges when it comes to window replacement. The rigid nature of brick requires precise measurements and professional installation to avoid damaging the structure. Additionally, Delaware’s climate—particularly the freeze-thaw cycles in winter—can cause brick to expand and contract, making it crucial to ensure windows are properly sealed to prevent drafts and water infiltration. Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure a proper fit and long-lasting performance.

Finding the Perfect Window Color for Your Brick House

When selecting the color for your new windows, consider how the frames will complement your brick home’s style. In Delaware, neutral tones like white, beige, or bronze are popular options that work well with brick exteriors. For a more striking look, darker colors like forest green or black can provide contrast while maintaining a classic aesthetic.

Benefits of Fibrex® Window Frames for Brick Homes

Fibrex® frames, exclusive to Renewal by Andersen, are ideal for Delaware homes. Combining the strength and insulating properties of wood with the low-maintenance benefits of vinyl, Fibrex® frames resist moisture, salt air, and UV exposure, making them perfect for Delaware’s varied climate. Additionally, Fibrex® frames come in a variety of styles and finishes, allowing you to customize your windows to match your home’s architecture while enhancing energy efficiency. Replacing windows in brick homes in Delaware requires careful consideration of the local climate and environmental conditions. Whether you choose full-frame replacement or retrofit installation, selecting energy-efficient, durable windows will significantly enhance your home’s comfort, security, and curb appeal. Schedule a free consultation to discover the best window replacement options for your Delaware home.