Replacing your windows can be a great way to save energy and increase the value of your home. Before you make the investment to replace the windows in your home, you need to understand a few things.
Consider a Partial Replacement
There are two ways home windows can be replaced. A full installation involves removing the trim, and window, and insulating the gap. The other involves installing a window insert, where an insert is fitted into the existing window. This method can save you in labor costs. However, it does not allow for insulating the gaps, which makes them less energy efficient. Visually it will look like a retrofitted window, not an original that was made for the house.
Materials Matter
When replacing the windows in your home, consider the materials used in the original home. Decide if you want wood rather than vinyl, and be sure to match the number of panes in each window with the originals. Using the wrong materials could bring down the value of your home and resource.
Consider Repairing Old Windows
Before you write that check for a complete home window replacement, consider the condition of your original windows and whether or not they can be repaired. If you have an old house with beautiful windows, special sizes, stained glass, or other custom features, it may be more cost-effective to fix or reinforce the original window than to replace it with a new one. The cost of replacing a specialty window involves additional labor when a specialist must cut a new hole, replace the window, insulate the gap, reassemble the trim, and replace the pieces of wall that had to be altered. This kind of replacement can cost up to $350 per window in labor costs.
Consider Maintenance
There are different levels of maintenance depending on the type of windows you buy. The wood windows of today are not as long-lasting compared to the wood from 50 or 100 years ago. If you want to install wood windows, you can opt to have them aluminum-clad to protect the wood from the elements. The cladding can be painted in a wide variety of colors and the finish is guaranteed for 20 years. Aluminum-clad windows cost about 15 to 20 percent more than plain wood.
New Windows are an Investment
Contrary to many things you may have heard, new windows don’t actually pay for themselves, at least not when it comes to energy efficiency. The return comes when you sell your home. It would take approximately 100 years to earn back an investment of home window replacement in energy savings alone.
Home window replacement options are available for a range of styles and budgets. These tips can help you find the best windows for your home project.
