You might not think about the condition of your windows very often, but they are an important part of the exterior of your home. Replacing old windows will improve your home dramatically. These advantages will make you glad you did.
1. Energy Efficiency
The windows on your home can dramatically affect how much energy you save or lose. Both technological advances in the manufacturing process and consumer’s desire for increased energy efficiency mean today’s windows are a big improvement over those from even just 15 years ago. New windows offer Energy Star qualifications and are NFRC independently tested and labeled to help consumers assess differences in energy efficiency. The style, frame, glass, coatings and installation all affect energy efficiency. Those energy ratings along with the advice of your experienced installer can help you select the right energy-efficient windows for your home.
2. Increase Home Value
New windows are both very appealing to buyers and a great way to increase the value of your home. They estimate a return on investment of up to 71%! That’s a lot of impact for your remodeling dollar. So if you’re selling in the near future, new windows are an excellent upgrade. It also makes your home easier to sell since buyers can tell you’ve been keeping up with maintenance and upgrades.
3. Lower Heating & Cooling Costs
This is probably the biggest advantage of replacing old windows. Energy costs are always going up, and homeowners want to keep their monthly budgets in check. It is estimated the heat gain and loss caused by your windows accounts for between 25% and 30% of your residential heating and cooling bill. When you consider the extreme Minnesota winters, that’s a pretty big deal! Energy-efficient windows cut down heat gain and loss. You won’t have to keep cranking up the heat or air conditioning, which saves a significant amount of money over time.
4. Reduce Maintenance
Aging windows add to home maintenance. They may be leaking air, causing drafts. There may be cracks in the glass or frames. They may have deteriorating seals or rotting sills that are letting in cold air, water, or insects. Or your old windows may not lock or close correctly.
All those situations mean more home maintenance for you. If you live in an area where city inspectors periodically look at your yard and outside of your home for maintenance issues, new windows will give you less to worry about. Replacing your existing windows doesn’t mean they’ll be maintenance free forever. But with the right installation, your new windows will do their job for many years to come.
5. Home Safety
Different manufacturing techniques make new windows sturdier than older, wood-framed, single-pane windows. This makes it more difficult to use them as an entrance point for a break-in. Old windows also may have broken locks or damage that causes them to not close correctly which can also put your home at risk. If you want to install or upgrade a security system, windows must work as they should to keep your home protected.
6. Curb Appeal
New windows will always improve the look of a home. The outside of your home is the first thing visible to anyone who visits. It makes an overall impression in a matter of seconds. You want the impression to be a good one! Feeling good about the appearance of your home will make you happier living there and will work to your advantage if you’re selling in the near future.
7. Noise Barrier
Both the construction of the window itself and the installation will affect the noise level inside your home. The same technological advancements which make new windows more energy-efficient also act as a noise barrier. Installed correctly, new windows will be air and watertight helping reduce noise further. This means when you replace old windows there is less noise from outside being heard inside your home. It also means the reverse is true. If your neighbors are unusually close, good windows can help you feel a little less self-conscious about your privacy.
8. Home Comfort
Better temperature control and less noise will help your home be a more relaxing and comfortable environment. Additionally, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that a high-quality window installation will help prevent water and pest damage and reduce maintenance for your home.
Windows are such an important part of your home. You want to know you’ve got the right product and the right people installing it. You don’t need to leave the window replacement on your Twin Cities home to just anyone. Contact us at Midwest Roofing Siding & Windows today to find out how we can help.