Choosing The Right Windows For Your Home
Though you may not give them much thought unless you have to wash them or you’re trying to air out your kitchen, your home’s windows do a lot more than let in some light and breeze. Windows are a key part of your home’s insulation, a line of protection against water and pests, and an integral part of your home’s overall aesthetic.
That’s why, when it’s time to upgrade your home’s windows, you need to consider what type are right for you carefully. Before you buy, then, ask yourself these four questions – they’ll help guide you to the perfect windows for your home, and your budget.
Do They Need To Be Replaced?
The first question you should ask yourself before you replace your windows is whether or not they actually need to be replaced. If the only real problem with your windows is that they’ve lost some of their insulating power – maybe they’ve lost their gas infill – you could save a substantial amount of money and avoid inconvenience by simply installing window inserts. Window inserts create a new layer of air over your window, helping to insulate them, and because they’re placed over the existing frame, they also cut down on drafts and give the interior of your windows a fresh look.
What’s The Weather?
Another key consideration when looking for new home windows is the location of your home and the relative weather. Typically, windows are rated on overall performance, and then on their performance in specific environments, so consider how windows perform in your climate. Not all windows perform equally well in extreme cold or heat, or hold up well in high winds and storm conditions. Know what works where you live.
What Will You Save?
Replacing your windows is expensive, but it can also save you money in the long-term, and you should take this into account when choosing replacement windows. For example, replacing your windows will not only provide an insulation boost, but new windows also protect your family from UV rays, block out external noise, and reduce your home’s energy bill; in one estimate, replacing older double-hung windows with high efficiency windows on a 2,600 square foot house saved homeowners 15% annually on energy bills.
Additionally, if you think you’re going to be selling your home in the near future, they can also increase your home’s resale value and add to the curb appeal. Recent upgrades are especially popular with today’s young buyers, who don’t want to put a lot of labor into home improvements. In other words, no matter where you are in the ownership cycle, replacing your windows will likely offer some financial benefits.
What’s Your Home Style?
As noted above, though windows are a functional part of your home, they also play a key aesthetic role, and to that end, windows come in many different styles. Before you buy, then, think about how you want your windows to fit into that style statement, and whether you want to use them to transform your home. While most American homes feature double-hung windows as their primary choice, many homeowners add one or two large floor-to-ceiling windows or display-ready bay windows to add character to their home. Similarly, while most modern homes feature vinyl windows, if you’re trying to preserve a historic look, you might consider traditional wood-framed windows despite their greater maintenance needs.
Some say windows are the eyes of the home, and purchasing new ones can certainly give homeowners perspective on their priorities. Before you replace your home’s windows, then, take the time to research your options and assess your home’s needs; you’ll be living with your choice for decades to come.
This post was supported by John McCarter Construction.
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