When it comes to home improvement projects, replacing your windows is not typically at the top of the list. It tends to be one of the less exciting home improvement projects. However, it is one of the most valuable because it can save you a significant amount of money in multiple ways.
Find out how replacing your windows can save you money.
The Cost of Old Windows
The standard window installed on homes is a single pane builder-grade window. They are affordable and get the job done. The problem with them is that they provide no insulation and eventually age to the point of not being functional. They also have a wood frame that is susceptible to moisture and limits the useful life of your windows. So while these windows start out fine and give you several years of useful service, they age and become problematic and costly.
How Window Replacement Can Save You Money
There are several ways that old windows can cost you. From ongoing monthly costs to the potential sale of your home, old and outdated windows can cost you big. Old windows cost you more than just the money coming out of your bank account. There are also your time costs and potential lost profits.
Home Energy Costs
Single pan windows do not provide any insulation benefit to your home. This means that heat outside during the Florida summer will quickly transfer through the glass to come inside. Likewise, during winter, the nice warm and cozy atmosphere you have created inside your home will radiate out with the heat transferring through the glass to the cold air outside. Both of these situations result in you spending more than necessary on home heating and cooling costs.
Replacing your current windows with double paned windows will reduce the transfer of heat and create an insulated barrier between the inside of your home and the outside. To improve the window’s performance even more, the space between the panes of glass is filled with a safe and non-reactive gas. Typically, the gas is krypton, argon, or xenon. The gas reduces the transfer of heat even more, which creates an insulating effect. In addition, the reduction in heat transfer means your HVAC system does not have to work as hard, which means you are going to save money.
Repair Costs
As windows age, they will require more repair and maintenance. As they get older, these demands increase, representing continually rising home maintenance costs. Replacing aging windows with new ones eliminates the bulk of the repair and maintenance costs. Newer windows do not require repairs and only minimal maintenance. This not only reduces monetary costs but also reduces your time cost. Your time is valuable, and now you can spend it doing the things you want.
Lost Profit Cost
This cost does not directly come out of your pocket. Instead, this is the money that you could have earned. Old windows represent a future cost to a potential home buyer. They can also reduce the curb appeal of your home, which plays a major impact on the perceived value of your home. If your windows are outdated or damaged, you are losing out on the potential sale value of your home. Replacing the windows eliminates this potential future cost for buyers. In addition, they improve your home’s curb appeal, helping it to make a strong first impression. New windows can also increase your home’s value if you upgrade while you replace them.
Reduced Insurance Costs
Replacing your current single pane windows with impact grade or storm windows can reduce your home insurance costs between 10 and 15 percent. This is because older and lower-quality windows lack the strength and protective qualities necessary to withstand wind and impacts in strong Florida storms or hurricanes. In addition, impact-resistant windows have reduced repair and replacement costs, which results in decreasing payouts for insurance companies. They then pass these savings on to you with reduced premiums.
Signs It Is Time to Change Your Windows
Head over to your window and try to fully open and close it. Is it hard to move and sticks as it slides up and down? This is a sign of swelling and warping of the wood frame. Your windows should be quick and easy to operate.
Drafts and Rising Home Energy Costs
If you notice drafts, this is air leaking from outside in or inside out. Drafts happen for several reasons, from warping to insulation loss to gaps between the frame and siding. If the air is flowing, then your windows are creating a major pull on your HVAC system. As the draft becomes worse, you will notice your home energy costs increasing.
Lack of Curb Appeal
Walk around to the outside of your home and look at the condition of your windows. If they are damaged, aged, or outdated, it is time to replace your windows. Common issues are multiple broken or missing glass panes, a rotting frame, or gaps in the frame’s siding. New windows can improve the overall look and curb appeal of your home.
Fogging and Condensation
Finally, if you notice that your windows are fogging or condensation is gathering on the glass, it is time to replace your windows. The seals in the window have failed, and the moisture is gathering on the glass window panes. Fogging and condensation can happen on old windows, but they can also happen on new windows that are improperly installed.
Schedule a Free Quote Today
If the windows in your home are looking a bit old and tired, your home energy costs are rising, and the glass is fogging, then it is time to consider a full window replacement. New windows are worth the investment for the long term savings they can offer you. The Big D Building Center team is ready to help you with replacing your windows with high-quality modern windows.
Schedule your free consultation today and get a quote for window replacement from one of our experienced and knowledgeable associates.