• New windows can do wonders for your home. They look nice, cut down on drafts, and potentially save you some money on your monthly energy bills. But, before you rush to spend a considerable chunk of your hard-earned cash on new windows, it’s important to do your homework. Here are 4 key things everyone should know before beginning a window replacement project:

Replace or repair?

Many people make the mistake of opting for a full window replacement before even considering whether or not their windows could be repaired. But, unless your old windows are completely falling apart, chances are they can be fixed. From replacing cracked panes, to adding new sash cords and hardware, to weather-stripping, glazing, and painting, an experienced handyman, carpenter or window specialist can make your windows look and function like new. So, before you go all-in on a replacement, look into repair, especially if you have an old home with nice wooden windows. They won’t necessarily pay for themselves

A window replacement can be costly, but many people believe that new windows will automatically pay for themselves in the amount saved on heating and air conditioning bills. While this is possible, it is not universally true. If you have old single-paned windows in your home, new windows can make a significant impact on your monthly bills. That’s because newer dual-paned windows are roughly twice as effective at retaining heat and air conditioning than older single-paned windows. However, if your single-paned windows already have storm windows over them, your new windows are probably going to be somewhere closer to 15 percent more effective than your old ones. Which means it could take a lifetime to earn back your investment (up to 70 years according to some estimates). Resale value

When it comes to getting a return on your window replacement investment, it’s important to consider aesthetics. That’s because, according to a 2016 cost versus value study by the national association of realtors, homeowners stand to get about 73 percent of their replacement window investment back when they resell the house. So, while your windows won’t necessarily pay for themselves via energy savings, they can really boost your home value. However, this all depends on what type of windows you choose. If you replace your original wood windows with a cheaper, less visually appealing style, your new windows can actually downgrade home. That’s why it’s best to choose windows that match the materials and aesthetic of your home. Consider a retro-fit

If your windows are in bad shape, but you don’t have the budget for a full replacement, you might want to think about retro-fit windows. Retro-fit windows will leave the original frame in place, so they do not involve any demolition or damage to the surrounding wall or stucco. However, since retro-fit windows are designed to fit inside the existing frame, they will be slightly smaller than the old window, which means they are often less aesthetically pleasing than new windows.

Keeping these considerations in mind before your window replacement will help you avoid overpaying and/or getting stuck with windows that don’t add value to your home. And if you’d like to further enhance your home-improvement knowledge, or get into more advanced homebuilding and designing, visit chiefapprentice.com today and pick up your copy of the chief architect x9 training book. From remodels, to additions, to a complete new home build, our chief architect x9 tutorial guides will take you step by step through the whole process.

feb 15 2018 ∞
feb 15 2018 +