Let’s talk windows for a bit.
Window replacement is one of the “fun” projects that homeowners look forward to. While they might need to replace their roof or siding because of damage or wear and tear, most of my clients want to replace their windows. It helps increase the value and curb appeal of their home, they look great, and they help to save money over the long haul.
This series is to give a bit of a primer into the basics of what to look for when shopping for replacement windows. There are many different options available, from lower end aluminum, to mid-range double paned vinyl, to high end aluminum clad wood windows.
My Electric Bill Is Too High!
The last 15 years have seen many old, energy inefficient windows being replaced with new double paned, energy efficient windows. With so many options on the market, many homeowners get frustrated. You may be inclined to tell the salesman “just give me the best price”. That “best price” may end up costing you much more in the long run. This series will help shed some light on what you should be looking for, and what features are nice “sales” features, but not worth the additional expense.
Choosing the wrong window, with the wrong features, is easy to do with all the options and manufacturers out there.
Why Should I Replace My Windows?
A rough estimate is that 30% of a home’s heating and cooling cost escapes through the windows on your home. Around Texas and Louisiana, that is primarily cooling costs in the summer. It adds up quick! New windows also help to reduce wear and tear on your air conditioning unit, which saves on repair costs in the long run.
You will also notice a difference with the amount of sound coming through your windows. With 2 panes of glass and an airspace in between, you may no longer hear your pesky neighbor mowing their yard at 7 am on a Saturday morning.
There are also safety issues when it comes to windows. Laminated glass will not only reduce the amount of noise coming into your home, but also the likelihood of debris from a hurricane. It also helps to prevent burglars from entering your home. Meanwhile, tempered glass will help prevent injuries if one of the windows happens to get broken. I will cover more on both of these in a later article.
Lastly, having new, beautiful windows on your home increases the curb appeal and the value of your home.
Thanks for making it though this post! Up next time are the differences between the types of glasses and gases that help make your home energy efficient!
Until next time,
Travis Diekmann
The Texan Roofer
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