Insights > Category > Posted: 2023-Nov-16, Updated: 2024-Mar-13
Is it time to replace your old windows?
But, when it comes to the replacement of their windows, many homeowners are uncertain as to whether they really need to replace their windows and are confused by cost justification considerations.
Today’s windows offer so much more than just cost-saving energy efficiencies, they also offer increased comfort, security and protection that might make you wish you had replaced your windows sooner.
Eliminate poor energy-efficiency
If your home has single-pane windows, you are probably still using storm windows to winterize it. Your window winter energy efficiency is probably as low as it can get without the removal of the glass. And in the summer, there’s nothing to stop the air-conditioned coolness from escaping through the windows.
Low-performance windows, even in exceptional condition will drive your heating and cooling costs up and lower comfort levels within the home. Condensation, ice build-up, mould issues and drafts, and uncomfortably hot rooms are just a few of the negative effects that can be experienced by poor energy efficiency.
When considering window energy efficiency, glass which represents the primary surface area of a window, is the biggest source of heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. We measure the heat gain or heat loss in windows using a U-value. For example:
- Single pane glass might have a U-value of 1.25 or worse
- Double pane might have a U-value of as low as .65
- Triple pane might have a U-value of as low as .35
The smaller the U-value number, the better the glass is at keeping inside temperatures inside, and outside temperatures outside.
Savings over time
Although there are several factors to consider when evaluating energy cost savings over time, it generally takes about 10 years to appreciate the energy cost savings of replacing poor energy-efficient windows with energy-efficient windows.
Comfort
Balancing comfort with efficiency is a little more complicated than choosing an energy-efficient window. Some rooms may be exposed to light throughout the day, and others may not get much light at all. Choosing the right window style or glass type could improve home comfort by helping to regulate hot or cold temperatures or by filtering out too much light, furniture harming UV rays, and even sound.
When choosing glass types, explain to your window expert about existing concerns, ask about the type of glass that would best suit your individual rooms, and what the pros and cons might be for north, south, east and west-facing windows. Mixing and matching the glass types to specific rooms will maximize the comfort level and room functionality in your home.
Increase home value and appeal
If you are planning to sell your home in the near future - quality, energy-efficient windows could help increase its value, speed up the sales process and instil buyer’s confidence. And to help you make your house look even more attractive, many window companies now offer transferable lifetime warranties, a big plus to the prospective homeowner who is already overwhelmed by potential upgrade concerns.
Security
Old windows that are in disrepair are often easy targets for intrusion. New windows, window styles, locking mechanisms and glass types are available to maximize the security of your home, giving you peace of mind.
Safe easy cleaning
Eliminate ladders, the fear of falling and the fear of damaging your home. Most slider and hung windows are designed for quick and easy removal, making internal/external window cleaning a breeze, even from a second story. But not all windows are the same, some companies make window cleaning easier than others.
Did you know, you can now order self-cleaning windows? Ask your window expert how self-cleaning windows can make life easier for you.
Adapting to changes in your home living spaces
If you are a typical homeowner, your home has probably undergone many facelifts over the years. Rooms have been modified, outside decks have been enlarged… Whatever the changes, sometimes they affect the functionality of your home. Maybe it’s time to re-evaluate and optimize the functionality of your windows to match the way you use them in your house. Here are a few things to think about.
- If you have never opened an operating window, replace it with a picture window
- If you have a casement window that opens out onto a deck or outside staircase, replace it with a hung window
- If you have a hard to get to a sliding basement window that you like to have open, replace it with an awning window with a winding handle
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Need more information?
If you are considering window replacement, talk to a window expert, before you start asking for quotes. It could save you time and frustration by helping you pick a window solution that will maximize your expectations so that the words “I wish I had done something different!” never enter your thoughts.
If you would like to know more, give us a call or send us a request for more information. We’d be happy to address all of your questions or concerns.
