Why New Windows?
What made you start thinking about getting new windows? Will they truly bring the improvement you're looking for? Will they really be worth the investment? These are important questions - we'd like to help you answer them. Find out how professionally installed, new high-quality replacement windows will bring you the comfortable, efficient, beautiful investment value you're looking for.
Comfort
Maybe the windows you have in your home right now are just letting WAY too much of the outside into your house.
Professionally installed, properly insulated high-quality dual-pane windows give you more quiet and much more consistent comfort.
Efficiency and Savings
Was the last energy bill you paid the "last straw"? Or was it the sprained finger or broken fingernail you got the last time you tried to open one of your windows?
According to Sempra Energy, single pane windows can account for 33% of the total heat loss during the winter and as much as 75% of the heat gain in the summer. In order to be able to state how much money you'll save by having new double pane windows installed, the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) requires that any specific claims made for your home must be validated with a comprehensive "energy audit" of your home to prove the savings.
However, with that said, it's also true that the manufacturers of the "Low E" glass used by the top window makers have proven conclusively with laboratory tests that "Low E" glass reduces heat pass-through by up to 80%. If your new windows use Low E glass, and if (and ONLY if) they are properly insulated, that would seem to indicate you could anticipate a considerable savings on your energy bill. Quantifying that savings is not possible because of the FTC rule, but you can intuitively reason that it will happen.
Won't it be nice when you open your energy bill to see how much you've saved this month?
And won't it be nice when opening your new windows doesn't take any more energy than opening that envelope?
Investment Value
Realtor Magazine Online revealed results of a national study of 2005 Cost vs. Value Report that was published 12/1/2005. Results of the study are shown below. They demonstrate the return on investment you can receive from getting your windows replaced, as measured by the increased resale value of your home. Read more about the financial benefits of replacement windows at Realtor Magazine Online or in the section below.
Window Replacement
Window Replacement Project Description: Replace 10 existing 3-by-5-foot double-hung windows with wood replacement windows, double-glazed and exterior clad in vinyl or aluminum. Wrap existing exterior trim as required to match. Don't disturb existing interior trim.
| Region | Job Cost | Resale Value | Cost Recouped |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Average | $9,684 | $8,681 | 89.6% |
| East Average | $9,831 | $8,887 | 90.4% |
| Midwest Average | $10,139 | $8,484 | 83.7% |
| South Average | $8,973 | $7,506 | 83.7% |
| West Average | $10,007 | $10,282 | 102.7% |
Based on this information, the evidence seems to be pretty strong that replacing your windows would be an extremely positive decision for you to make, that could even make you money, or at least fully pay for your enjoyment of this great improvement in your lifestyle.
