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Upgrade Your Home With Energy-Efficient Replacement Windows
Homeowners looking to upgrade their windows can choose from a variety of styles that provide energy savings and curb appeal. These options are available in a range of materials and colors to suit your existing home.
You can also opt for insert windows which fit right into the existing window frame without any nail fins. It’s important to compare the different options before deciding on one. Contact Replacement Windows Potomac for professional help.
Replacing older windows with new models that are ENERGY STAR certified is a surefire way to cut your energy costs. How much you save will vary, depending on where you live and the type of windows you replace. But the EPA estimates that replacing 10 old, single-pane windows with Energy Star windows can save homeowners up to $366 per year in heating and cooling costs.
Replacement windows are available in a range of styles, frames and operating styles to match your existing home. They are also available in different materials, colors and finishes. Many are manufactured from composites that combine wood and other materials for a look and performance that is lower-maintenance than wood. Some are even designed to mimic the appearance of traditional wood windows.
There are two primary types of replacement windows: insert and full frame. Insert replacement windows install into the existing window frames without alterations to the existing frame, trim and siding. This is an important consideration for older homes with carefully curated architectural details that you do not want to disrupt.
The other type of replacement window is the full-frame model, which requires that the existing frame and exterior cladding be removed and replaced with new framing and cladding. This allows for more customization of the window’s shape and size, which can be beneficial if you are looking to let in more light or change the style of your home’s architecture.
Both replacement window types can be made with a variety of glass and framing materials, with vinyl being the most popular. The best material for your climate will depend on factors such as humidity, rainfall and sun exposure. Choosing the right material for your needs will ensure that your new windows are durable and long-lasting.
In general, double-paned windows are more energy efficient than single-paned ones. However, even a well-insulated double-glazed window can lose efficiency over time. One sign that your windows may be failing is if you see condensation between the panes. This indicates that the seals have deteriorated, allowing cold air or heat to enter your home and critical argon or krypton gas to escape.
Increased Curb Appeal
The exterior of a home sets the stage for what’s inside, so it’s important to keep up your home’s curb appeal. It not only helps to attract potential buyers when you’re ready to sell, but it also boosts your home’s value and gives you a sense of pride in ownership.
A few small improvements can make a big difference in the way your house looks, and they won’t break the bank. For example, replacing dingy door hardware, such as the entry door lockset and wall-mounted mailbox, with new fixtures in a more modern style can make your house look brand-new.
An attractive front door is another budget-friendly improvement that adds a punch of color and definition to your entryway. To further draw attention to your front door, frame it with molding around the top and sides, which will also add dimension to your house.
If you have older windows in your home, installing new ones is a great way to improve its overall appearance and enhance its curb appeal. According to Consumer Reports, replacement windows can boost your home’s resale value by up to 7%.
In addition to replacing old window frames, you can upgrade your home’s exterior with a fresh coat of paint and some well-chosen landscaping. Many homeowners don’t consider that curb appeal can affect their property valuation, but a poorly maintained house is less likely to attract potential buyers and may not sell for as much as one with a more attractive exterior.
Unlike new construction windows, replacement windows can be installed in existing openings without the need for additional framing or demolition, so they’re a quick and affordable way to give your home a major facelift. However, if your home is in a historic district, it’s essential to obtain approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) before starting any renovation work. To avoid any complications, contact an experienced local contractor and ask for an estimate and timeline. They can also help you select the best style of windows to meet your needs and complement your home’s architectural design.
Increased Home Value
Many homeowners will agree that they have made a good investment when they replace their old windows with new energy-efficient ones. However, homeowners may be wondering if this home improvement project will increase the value of their property.
While it’s impossible to predict the exact ROI of any specific home improvement project, the general consensus is that a quality window replacement can add up to 10 percent to the value of your house. Considering how much the average national cost to install a single vinyl double-hung, low-E replacement window is ($550), this can be an excellent return on your investment.
Depending on your state, you may also be able to receive tax incentives for installing energy-efficient windows. According to the government-backed symbol for efficiency, Energy Star, replacing old windows with new ones can help you shrink your energy bill by 12% on average annually.
This energy savings will be an attractive feature for potential buyers, especially those who are environmentally conscious. In fact, a 2021 survey from the National Association of Home Builders found that 83% of home buyers consider ENERGY STAR windows to be essential or desirable.
Home appraisers will also look at the quality of your windows when conducting a house appraisal. The more modern, clean, and well-maintained your windows are, the higher they will be rated by the appraiser. This is why upgrading your older windows to energy-efficient ones should be one of the top things on your home improvement to-do list.
In addition to adding value to your house, new windows can make it easier to sell it when the time comes. In a competitive market like Philadelphia, new windows will set your house apart from others. Plus, you can rest assured that your new windows will keep you warm and cozy for years to come, saving you money on heating and cooling costs. What’s not to love about that?
Reduced Noise
Whether it’s the constant drone of traffic, barking dogs or noisy neighbors, noise pollution can impact your home’s comfort and create an uneasy environment for you and your family. Noise-reducing replacement windows help block out unwanted sounds so you can enjoy a quieter and more tranquil home environment.
To maximize your sound reduction, choose a window with a high STC rating. The STC, or sound transmission class, rating measures how much noise a window reduces and compares a variety of materials or construction assemblies in different frequencies. For example, a wood-framed window is going to be less effective at reducing sound than an aluminum-framed window.
The STC is also displayed on the window’s Energy Star label. This rating indicates the window meets certain energy efficiency standards and is a good choice for your climate zone. In addition, a double-paned window is more effective at reducing noise than single pane windows, which are often made of thinner glass.
If you’re replacing your existing windows, it may be possible to improve the noise-reducing qualities of your windows by repairing or patching any air leaks and gaps. However, the most efficient solution is to replace your old single-pane windows with new, multi-pane models that provide better insulation and can help reduce noise pollution.
When choosing multi-pane windows, consider their STC rating. This rating will indicate how much noise a window is capable of blocking, and is measured at 18 different frequencies. The higher the STC rating, the more effectively the window blocks noise.
Before installation begins, be sure to remove furniture, pictures and other wall decorations in the direct vicinity of your windows. You should also disconnect any alarm systems in the area. This will minimize the amount of time required for installation and prevent any accidental damage to your property while it’s being removed and replaced.
A professional installer will ensure your new, multi-pane windows are placed properly and sealed for maximum effectiveness. This will not only improve your home’s sound-reducing qualities but can also increase its resale value and help you save on your energy bills.