Kitchen Cabinet Remodeling - Ideas and Estimates

Add Replacement Windows During Cabinet Refacing

by Allison E. Beatty
KitchensAndCabinets.com Columnist

If youre tired of heat seeping out of your kitchen windows, consider the many options in replacement windows. New windows, coupled with a cabinet refacing project, can significantly transform your kitchen design.

Consider Low-Maintenance Replacement Windows

Many replacement windows are designed to be easy to open and maintain. Unlike old wood windows that can stick, new replacement windows have modern glides and easy-to-clean sashes and glass sections.

Replacement Windows Aid Energy Efficiency

Aside from the style and design of replacement windows, energy efficiency is a key reason to look for new windows. Today's replacement windows have insulated glass and secure weather stripping to help keep air infiltration to a minimum.

Consider Replacement Window Materials

Among the replacement window options are:
  • Vinyl and aluminum replacement windows--low-maintenance materials with economic benefits. These are sold in a wide variety of standard sizes and shapes.
  • Vinyl clad replacement windows--offer the look of wood with a low-maintenance cladding that does not require painting. These are sold in many colors, with white, beige and putty brown being popular choices.

When evaluating replacement windows, consider:
  • The size and shape of existing windows, as the new should blend with the old.
  • The window material. Ideally, you should stick with the same replacement window material throughout the house.
  • The window colors--buy the same color window trim throughout the house. If your existing windows are white vinyl, stick with the same look unless you plan to replace them all. If your other windows are painted wood, then splurge on wood if possible.
  • Window size--keep new windows proportional to others. New replacement windows should reach the same height on the wall, so they align with the others.

Replacement windows can make a big difference in the comfort and feel of your kitchen design. As you plan a cabinet refacing project, look for the best window solution as well.

About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home-improvement columns for 15 years.