Windows add aesthetic value to your home. More importantly, they allow you to keep outdoor weather away and air from the HVAC inside. Plus, they improve the security of your home. Due to the functional purposes of windows, they naturally affect your monthly energy costs. If your energy costs are increasing without explanation, then it could be due to outdated or damaged windows, and you may be able to save a significant amount annually by replacing them with new windows. OWhy Outdated or Damaged Windows Increase Monthly Costs
Outdated or damaged windows make it harder to control the climate inside your home. This most notably leads to higher energy costs each month. In fact, it is not uncommon for outdated or damaged windows to cause monthly costs to increase by as much as $50 per month. This is particularly true if the windows allow for a draft inside the home.
To determine if your windows are contributing to a rise in your energy costs each month, check the windows for any cracks or openings while they are closed. Also, if they appear fogged, then it likely means that there are tiny holes that are allowing air to get trapped between the window panes. If there are any signs that the windows are worn-down, then you may need to replace the windows.
How Can Window Replacement Save Me Money?
Window replacement saves you money by reducing your monthly energy costs. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) EnergyStar program, it is estimated that new windows can save homeowners up to $465 per year. Some homeowners report even higher annual savings above $600.
When factoring in the cost of window replacement, many homeowners see a return on their investment within a decade, which means the new window installation essentially pays for itself over time. Of course, savings vary based on the size of the home, the local climate and the cost of the replacing windows and installation.
Additional Benefits Of Window Replacement
For many, the monthly savings you can receive from window replacement is enough to decide on new windows. However, there are other notable benefits that window replacement offers, including improved comfort inside your home, better curbside appeal and an easier time selling your home when the time comes to do so.
Improved Comfort
When there is a draft inside your home that comes through the windows, it affects the comfort inside the home. The HVAC must run for an extended period of time each day as it allows more outdoor air to enter inside your home. In addition, outdated windows are less capable of reducing sunlight exposure. This can cause unwanted light and heat to enter, which makes the overall environment inside your home less comfortable. Excessive sun exposure can also damage your furniture over time as well.
Better Curbside Appeal
Outdated or damaged windows can become a real eyesore, especially if they are on the visible side of your home. One great way to improve the overall aesthetic value and curbside appeal of your home is through new window installation. You can choose the right type of windows to meet your design preferences. There are also many new window options to optimize energy-efficiency inside your home and reduce energy costs substantially.
Easier to Sell Your Home
New windows can also make it easier to sell your home if and when you decide to do so. Many prospective buyers check the windows to determine the quality and how long it is before they need replacement. If windows in your home have seen their best days, then it is likely to be far more challenging to find a buyer. In some cases, the appraised value may even be affected if the windows are damaged or significantly worn-down. This can also cause problems with the home inspection during a sale as well.
When Should I Replace My Home Windows?
You should replace your home windows when they begin to show signs of aging. This can include cracks, chipped paint, an inability to close or open them effortlessly and fogged glass. Most notably, windows that lead to an increase in energy costs each month should be replaced. As discussed, this can lead to a return on your initial investment by saving money on energy costs monthly, which often add up to more than $400 per year.
Speak With The Pros at Adelphia Exteriors On Replacing Windows
If you are experiencing higher than normal energy costs each month, have notable issues with your windows or simply would like new windows as a part of a home remodel, then give our team at Adelphia Exteriors a call today. We are glad to explain in detail the benefits new windows can offer you so that you can make an informed decision about new window installation.