Many Northern Virginia homeowners agree to the idea that a renovation is a sound investment, especially because the real estate market in Alexandria has gone up 6.3 percent over the past year, and Zillow.com predicts it will rise even more. Hence, the major and minor decisions you make will have an effect on the value of your home in the long run, not to mention the sheer satisfaction that you will derive from being able to finally realize your desired output.

However, you should know that a successful home renovation project is based on a clear vision of what you are trying to achieve. Unfortunately, some homeowners fail in exploring the possibilities and lack a knack for developing a detailed plan. For homeowners who are planning to update their windows in Alexandria VA, Real Simple shared this advice:

Figure out what your priorities are. If you desire an unobstructed view, opt for a fixed (or picture) window. If you want air to circulate freely, take a look at a casement window that opens fully. Also think about how much time you’re willing to spend on keeping the windows shipshape. Wooden frames may need to be scraped and painted periodically; vinyl is virtually maintenance-free.

The least pricey (and most popular) material is vinyl; it’s durable, moisture-resistant (great for coastal and humid climates), and a breeze to care for―but it shouldn’t be painted.

In bedrooms and basements, you’ll need at least one window that’s large enough to escape through―fire codes require this. Proper installation is critical, so hire a licensed contractor.

A professional designer or contractor for

replacement windows Alexandria VA

draws on a wealth of experience and knowledge, and can offer you ideas and recommendations that you may never have thought about. For one, remember that it can be difficult to compute a set figure because so much of the work is up in the air before you start. To help you get started, professional contractors like Roofing & More provide free in-home consultations and estimates to help you develop a plan fit for your budget.

(Article Excerpt and Image from Renovation Handbook: Windows and Doors, realsimple.com)