DIY vs. Professional Window Replacement: Pros and Cons

With DIY home improvement projects growing in popularity, more and more people decide to tackle window replacement themselves. Cost-effectiveness aside, is ditching the professional service a good idea? The answer is not as straightforward as it may seem, as both options come with their advantages and drawbacks. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the biggest pros and cons and try to settle this perennial question for once. 

Professional Window Installation: High Quality and Hefty Price Tag

Opting for professional window replacement services in Calgary is a great choice if you’re looking for high-quality work, especially when dealing with more complex installations.

Pros

1. Guaranteed Result. When hiring a reliable firm, expect to get a window warranty — a document that reflects that the installation work was carried out to a satisfactory standard.
2. Energy Efficiency. Maintaining a home’s insulation and energy efficiency is crucial, especially in harsher climates. Installation experts have years of experience, which makes drafty and leaky windows a thing of the past.
3. Complex Installations. If you need to tackle complex projects, like installing custom windows or dealing with structural changes, professional service should be your go-to. The installers come with the expertise and necessary tools to handle larger and more complex projects, like installing floor-to-ceiling or even more uniquely shaped windows.
4. Compliance. A solid installation company operates within local building regulations, meaning you don’t have to worry about compliance.
5. Time Efficiency. DIY window installation can quickly get out of hand, especially if you’re already on a tight schedule. A professional team can complete the project in a fraction of the time.

Cons

1. Higher Cost. Professional installations come with a heftier price tag. The labor cost depends on the complexity and scale of the project, which can significantly drive up the price.
2. Scheduling. Professional installers can be booked weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons, so you must coordinate your project with the team’s availability.

Overall, professional installations come with higher quality, better energy efficiency, and warranties and compliance with local building codes and regulations. Additionally, high-quality window installation can increase the overall value of your home. Experts at the U.S. National Association of Realtors estimate that professionally installed windows hike up the resale value of your house, with homeowners getting up to 85% return on investment.

DIY Project: Cheap, Fast, Challenging

If you have a talent for home improvement projects, DIY window installation may sound like a good idea. After all, you’re saving money and immersing yourself in your hobby. Turns out DIY installations come with a catch.

Pros

1. Cost-saving. One of the most obvious advantages of DIY window replacements is that you don’t need to pay for professional labor. You can also choose the materials yourself and stick to your budget.
2. No Scheduling. Hiring a crew, especially during peak seasons, requires you to adhere to their schedule. Working at your own pace gives you the flexibility to adjust your schedule and start and end your project when you see it fitting.
3. Rewarding Experience. Replacing windows yourself is a great learning opportunity that allows upgrading your home improvement skills.

Cons

1. Requires Expertise. Proper installation requires skills and expertise. If you don’t have multiple window replacements under your belt, there are high chances that you’ll end up with leaky and drafty windows.
2. Time-consuming. Although do-it-yourself installations allow working around your schedule, keep in mind that a professional team will replace the windows in a fraction of the time.
3. Possible Complications. Along the way may arise many challenges, like rotting sills or other structural damages, that a professional crew could handle on the go.
4. Costly Mistakes. Window units are not cheap. If during the installation you shatter or damage the unit, the product warranties may not be applicable.

Overall, if you have a knack for do-it-yourself installations, you’ll save 100% on hired labor. Although it’s a good choice for people who have the skills and tools necessary for the project, it’s not the best idea for complete newbies to embark on this journey, which may end up with more complications than it’s worth.

So, when it comes to DIY and professional window replacement, the choice largely depends on your budget, schedule, and set of skills. If you already have experience in window installation and want to stay on the budget, DIY projects are a good option. Higher price tag aside, professionals ensure a perfect fit and tackle any unexpected issues, like damaged frames or other complications. If it’s your first project or you need to install larger or more unique windows, professional service should be your go-to.