The main reason to replace old, inefficient home windows with new, energy efficient windows is, of course, for the comfort. When the weather is unbearably hot and humid, or unbelievably cold and windy, or anywhere in between, we all deserve to be comfortable in our own homes.
There are, however, many benefits to replacing old, inefficient home windows with new, energy efficient windows. Here are just a few.
Increased Home Value
An August, 2012 study prepared by ISoldMyHouse.com indicated replacement windows can increase your home’s value by approximately 85% of the cost of the windows (if you spend $10,000 on replacement windows, you can see an increase in the value of your home by about $8,500). New windows come in a variety of attractive designs and will let in more sunshine to make your home brighter and more cheerful. They will improve the curb appeal of your home and make it easier to sell when the time comes. Buyers will benefit from the transferable window warranty.
Reduced Heating/Ventilation/Air Conditioning (HVAC) Expense
Energy Star, an entity of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy, reported in 2009 that homeowners in North America would save between $146 and $501 of their yearly HVAC costs if they replace single pane metal windows and sliding doors with energy efficient vinyl, fiberglass or wood/metal windows. How much you actually save depends on a variety of factors including the number of windows your home has, how extreme the weather is, what kind of HVAC system your home uses, and what household temperature is comfortable for you – to name just a few. Using your HVAC unit less results in longer HVAC unit life and fewer repairs. New energy efficient windows may not pay for themselves but in time can make a significant contribution toward your household’s bottom line.
Increased Peace and Quiet
Energy efficient windows have big, thick, multi-chambered frames that suppress outside sound from entering your home. Most homeowners immediately notice how much quieter their living space is once energy efficient windows have been installed.
Reduced Mold and Mildew Risks
Inefficient windows may allow water leaks to come into your home, both in front and behind the walls. A by-product of moisture entering your home is mildew and mold which can be harmful to you and your family’s health and detrimental to your home’s resale value. Energy efficient windows are resistant to moisture leaks and condensation and reduce the ability of mildew and mold to grow if not eliminate them altogether.
Increased Safety and Health
Old windows are susceptible to cracking and breaking. This is more true during the winter months when glass becomes cold and brittle. Old windows may even be made with and contain dangerous materials like lead paint. Children that play or sleep around old windows may be at risk of injury from exposed sharp edges and at risk of illness from hazardous manufacturing materials and, of course, potential drafts.
Increased UV Protection
New energy efficient windows also provide excellent UV protection to prevent sunlight from fading the colour of such household items as rugs, flooring, walls, artwork, window treatments, furniture and more.
Reduced Window Maintenance
New energy efficient windows are designed to be low maintenance. They are easier to clean, will eliminate costly repairs, and have the durability to last for many, many years.
Increased Home Security
New energy efficient windows are designed with superior locking mechanisms and stronger and more durable materials to provide your home with added security from break-ins and vandalism.
Increased Environmental Friendliness
Energy efficient windows require less energy output to keep your home at the comfortable temperature you want. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions and pollutants into the environment, which results from energy generation, and reduces human contribution to environmental change.
As you can see, replacing old, inefficient windows with new, energy efficient windows offers a variety of benefits.
Let us help you select the windows that benefit you the most. Contact us now.
