We all know the benefits of installing modern replacement windows and doors. New units can help enhance the look and feel of your home, boost energy efficiency, make for a relaxed and cozy environment for your family, and bring natural light and ventilation into your home. All these are excellent reasons on their own, but one that you’ll definitely appreciate most is the increase in property value they offer.
If you’re wondering how new windows and doors really add value to your home, the answer is simple. For one, these modern replacements can reduce your maintenance and energy costs. Many units on the market today are made from top-quality materials, like vinyl and composite, which are virtually maintenance-free. Imagine the savings you’ll get when you never have to paint those old window and door frames again! Of course, new replacements can also help regulate the energy inside your home by preventing energy leaks through insulated frames and energy-efficient glass.
Energy Savings from New Windows and Doors
It’s no secret that old, drafty windows and doors are a major drain on a home’s energy budget. During cold months, up to 40% of your heating energy can escape through the cracks and gaps of your old units. Drafts that enter through your inefficient windows and doors, on the other hand, can account for as much as 25% of your utility costs.
By taking the time to choose the right replacement windows and doors, and actually installing them in place of your old units, you can significantly increase your energy savings. Of course, it’s important your saving may not be apparent immediately; it can take some time to recoup the money you’ve spent on the installation of your new windows and doors. This is because windows and door projects don’t usually have as quick a payback as, say, energy-saving lighting or air seals. They will, however, be around for decades, making them a valuable long-term investment for your home.
The Real Value of Energy-Efficient Windows
Today, most window manufacturers design replacement units with energy efficiency in mind. They have advanced frame materials and mechanisms, as well as innovative glass packages that can help minimize energy leaks while providing a comfortable atmosphere for your loved ones. One of the indications that a window is truly energy-efficient is when it has the ENERGY STAR® label. ENERGY STAR is a government program that provides energy certifications to buildings and products that pass certain standards for energy usage or savings. By replacing your single-pane window with an ENERGY STAR-certified window, you can gain savings of up to $465 each year.
There are two key values to check when determining the energy efficiency of a window: the U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The U-Factor indicates how well your windows can keep necessary heat inside your home and the SHGC measures how well they keep the warmth of the sun out of your home. For both values, the lower the score indicated, the less heat transfer occurs. Keep an eye out for these values when selecting new windows to help you choose the most energy-efficient options for your home.
The Real Value of Energy-Efficient Doors
Doors also perform the same tasks as with windows; the only difference is they also serve as the main entry point for your home. Since they also let heat in and out of your spaces, they play a huge part in keeping your interior atmosphere comfortable.
When selecting new doors for your home, it’s important to look for the right features. New doors today come with many components that not only bring you ease of operation but better functionality as well to help insulate your home and improve your energy savings. For example, wood and fiberglass frame materials are some of the most popular options today because they possess a natural charm while at the same time offering maximum durability. To support energy-saving benefits, features such as quality insulation and seals, as well as energy-efficient glass and accessories are now found in modern door replacements.
How Windows and Doors Contribute to Energy Efficiency
As major exterior components, windows and doors are constantly ravaged by harsh weather conditions. This makes them vulnerable to cracks, gaps, and rot, allowing energy to leak out of your home, and cold drafts to enter your spaces. As a result, your interior environment becomes uncomfortable, prompting you to rely heavily on utility systems, which, in turn, triggers an increase in your energy bills.
With new, energy-efficient windows and doors, you can greatly improve the energy-saving properties of your home. Many replacement units these days have weathertight seals, efficient glass, and insulation features that help minimize energy loss. They create an effective thermal barrier between your indoor and outdoor spaces, helping protect your home against huge energy loss, potentially for years to come. If your windows and doors are older, it’s important to have them replaced to save more money in the long run. One of the easiest ways to find an installer is to simply Google your area and see what pops up. For example, search Denver Window and Door replacement if you live in that area and look for highly rated installers. Of course, double check them against the BBB, as well.
Cost-to-Value Ratio
According to the 2017 Cost vs. Value report, window and door replacement are two of the most ideal projects in terms of boosting a home’s value. You can recoup as much as 73% of the total window replacement cost over the years, while for door replacement, cost recouped can be as high as 90%.
To experience these benefits firsthand, get in touch with a trusted window and door contractor right away. They have the tools, experience, and skills to successfully recommend and install the right replacement units for your home.
Author Bio
David Reber is the general manager of Renewal by Andersen® of Kansas City. He is one of the home improvement experts whose experience and proficiency are what makes the company a leader in the local window replacement industry. His passion for helping homeowners make smart home improvement decisions is evident not only in his interactions with clients but also in his write-ups on the company blog.
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