Get matched with top window pros in Petersham, MA

Whether or not you need permission to change the windows in your house depends on your local laws. If you’re enlarging an opening or installing a new window and need to make structural changes to the house, you’ll need a permit. In most locations, you won’t need permission if you’re just replacing a window with another window of the same size. The window installation company you work with will be able to help you navigate any planning permits you may need.

Most manufacturers have their name imprinted somewhere on the window, such as the spacer bar, hardware, or frame. Other manufacturers will include an identification number printed on the glass itself. If you’re unable to find either of these, then your window was manufactured locally (oftentimes called a “shop window”). 

With a manufacturer name (or even better, the identification number) you can attempt to research the information to find out when the product was made. Keep in mind this won’t tell you when the window was installed on your home, but can get you close.

Wood windows fall in the middle of the window frame materials when it comes to energy efficiency. They’re more insulating than aluminum and vinyl, but they aren’t as efficient as fiberglass or composite frames. If you love the look and lifespan of wood windows and want to maximize efficiency, you can upgrade to double-pane or triple-pane glass and consider window tinting and low-emissivity (low-E) coatings to minimize heat transfer.

There are several ways to reduce noise coming through your windows. You can seal gaps around the window frames with acoustic caulk or fresh weatherstripping to reduce noise and air leaks. Installing sound-dampening curtains, thick blinds, or shades can also help deaden sound vibrations. For an additional interior barrier, consider installing an acrylic or plexiglass sheet inside the window, which stifles sound while still allowing for outdoor views. Another strategy is to add external barriers, like dense shrubbery or a sturdy fence, to block neighborhood noises. If these methods are not effective enough, it might be time to install new noise-canceling windows.