New windows can be expensive, a major investment for you home. However, they have a lot to offer also. Smooth operation, lower maintenance, easier cleaning, fewer drafts, UV protection and energy savings are some of the benefits new windows can offer.
So how do you know when it is time to take the plunge and invest in those lovely new windows for your home?
The important things to consider when making this decision involve maintenance, comfort and repair costs.
Maintenance
Are your old windows becoming a pain in the neck to maintain? Consider ease if operation, how often you are having to paint and scrape, condensation, the need for storm windows and cleaning. New windows slide easily, often are made of materials that don’t need paint at all, tend not to build condensation and void the need for storm windows. Many also offer tilt options making them very easy to clean from inside your home. If you are sick of keeping up with those old windows and all they require, it may be time to say goodbye.
Comfort
Older windows are often single-pane, and can leave your home feeling cold and dry in the winter and hot in the summer. This can do a number on your utility bills as your HVAC system tries to compensate. Newer windows with double-pane glass can greatly improve the comfort of your home and help you save money on energy costs. They can block much of the heat of direct sunlight but still allow the light to come through. They can also reduce cold drafts and condensation, keeping your home’s humidity levels higher and your home more comfortable. New windows often come with UV protection as an added bonus to protect your home’s flooring and furniture from the harsh rays of the sun.
Repair Costs
You can almost always repair and restore old windows if you’re willing to set aside the time and can find replacement hardware. But it’s not always worth the effort and expense. Things like rotted wood, sagging sashes, and fogged double-pane glass are signals that it may be time to just replace.
Time to Replace? Consider This
Even if you have determined it is indeed time to bite the bullet and invest in new windows, it does not mean you have to do it all at once. Balance your home’s appearance with your budget. Consider closely matching your home’s existing windows and replacing in stages. Even if you choose new windows that are very similar to your old ones, the new windows will probably look a bit different from the old, so consider replacing all the windows on one side of your home to retain a consistent appearance. You may even choose one side of one floor if you have a multi-story home. Often the windows on one side of a house deteriorate much faster than the others and that side might be the best place to start. Replace in stages, as your budget allows.
Check into any rebates and incentives available in your area. These can help offset the cost of your new windows. Many utility companies offer rebate incentives when you replace old windows with energy efficient ones. There can also be federal tax credits available. Those pretty new windows can end up costing you a lot less than you may have thought.
New windows can also add value to your home. Keeping up your investment can be a smart decision. If you ever go to sell your home, having newer windows could help you get a quicker sale and a better price than a home with old, outdated, ugly and inefficient windows.
Finally, consider the energy savings. Spending less on your utility bills can add up over time and help those new windows start to pay for themselves.