How Getting New Windows Actually Saves You Money

From providing natural light to increasing air circulation and offering better insulation, windows play a significant role in your day-to-day life. For this reason, it is crucial to have well-built and energy-efficient windows in your home. If your windows are outdated, drafty, or down-at-the-heels, they will let conditioned air from inside your living space escape, reducing your indoor comfort levels and causing your energy bills to skyrocket. While replacing your windows can be costly, it is a notable investment that will save you a lot of money for years to come.

In this article, STL Windows Direct, a reputable provider of beautiful, energy-saving Direct windows in Missouri, discusses the importance of window replacement and how getting new windows can actually save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in the long run.

The Importance of Replacing Your Windows

Window replacement is a common home improvement task that offers numerous exciting benefits. Take a look at the ways replacing your old, shabby windows can improve your home:

1. It will make your home more secure. Your house should be a safe shelter for you and your family, and replacing your windows can provide much-needed peace of mind. For instance, sturdy and well-designed windows can keep your home protected from intruders. Features such as sash locks or hinged wedge locks will hold your double-hung windows shut in place. Windows with tempered glass are also four times stronger than annealed glass. Burglars will surely have a difficult time attempting to get into your house with this type of feature.

2. It will improve your curb appeal. Window replacement will pay off in terms of curb appeal. Since windows are an essential component of your exterior, selecting the right style, color, and material can help enhance the architectural appeal of your house. Added visual interest can also lead to increased property value over time. In fact, according to the National Association of Home Builders, energy-efficient windows are one of the leading features builders want to include in the construction of new homes. The report also noted that potential buyers are willing to pay more for a residence that will shrink their utility costs.

3. It will make your family more comfortable. Comfort, the state of physical ease, is one of the things that homeowners desire to feel inside their homes. Top-quality windows provide copious amounts of sunlight without the harsh glare and help with blocking out noises from the outside, which is especially important if you live on a high-traffic, busy street. Modern replacement windows also offer excellent protection against ultraviolet rays, keeping your kids safe and furnishings in good condition.

How You Can Save Money With New Windows

There are many ways you can save money when you update your outdated windows with modern, energy-efficient window replacement units. Here are three of them: 

1. It will boost your home’s energy efficiency. It is no surprise that old, neglected windows are causing your utility bills to swell up. In fact, the energy you are losing due to drafty windows accounts for approximately 40 percent of your home’s heating and cooling expenses. When looking for replacement windows, make sure to choose units that are built with superior energy efficiency features to keep your energy costs low no matter the season.

A heat-absorbing tint can dramatically reduce the amount of heat that window unit transfers into your home. Another feature to consider is the low-E coating, which can be included within the glazing or applied as a film onto the pane. Other thermal-efficient features, like thermal spacing systems or inert gas fills, are also added to modern windows to improve their insulation properties. If you are looking for maximum energy savings, consider installing triple-pane windows to eliminate drafts and keep your living space comfortable year-round.

2. You will receive a high return on investment. While it may seem counterintuitive to make modifications around the house before selling your home, it can actually help attract potential buyers and encourage a quick sale. One of the best renovations to complete before putting your house on the market is window replacement. When the time comes to sell your house, vinyl window replacement offers up to 72 percent return on investment (ROI) — a performance measure that evaluates the efficiency of an investment — presenting some of the best value in home improvement. Many first-time homebuyers prefer to purchase a residential home that is proven to be energy-efficient and move-in ready, and good-quality new window installation will give you that trump card. Additionally, the curb appeal boost and energy savings make your home more appealing to potential buyers.

3. It will reduce your maintenance costs. When you remove your old, drafty windows and install modern, energy-saving windows, you will not have to worry about frequent repairs and costly maintenance. Windows built with top-of-the-line materials can withstand severe weather elements, such as hail and heat, will not rust or corrode, and deliver long-lasting performance. Fade-proof windows are also easier to clean, keeping maintenance to a minimum. If something goes amiss, like a defective frame, for example, your window will likely be covered by a limited lifetime warranty and a dedicated technician will repair your window at little or no cost.

How to Select the Right Replacement Windows

It is important to take window dimensions, style, and operability into account when shopping for new windows. Here is a list of considerations that can add up to enormous savings for your bottom line.

Operable vs. Fixed Windows

There is no doubt that fixed window installation units have lower upfront costs than operable windows. However, it is crucial to add an adequate number of operable windows in each room to promote healthy air circulation and provide a means of emergency egress. Once the ventilation is accounted for, swapping out the rest of the windows to fixed units will maintain natural light and keep beautiful outdoor views.

Glass to Frame Ratio

Many people think that the smaller the window, the cheaper it costs. But this is not the case. The more glass you have per frame, the less it costs to manufacture per square foot. For example, a 4’x4’ unit has the same production price as a 2’x2’ unit. A smaller window has a lower performance value compared to a window built with a larger expanse of glass. So, when you select a large-sized window, you will likely save more money and get better performance.

Eliminating Mullions

A mullion refers to the vertical bar between the panes in a window. It is often used for aesthetic and operation purposes. Since this feature costs more to produce, eliminating them from the design plan can save you a little bit of money. To accomplish this, simply replace two mulled-together windows with one larger unit. If operability is the main concern, consider incorporating a tilt function to the large-sized window. This can maintain the function but remove the manufacturing, materials, and maintenance costs of the mullion.

Schedule Your Free Estimate for New Windows Today!

You can count on STL Windows Direct for beautiful, energy-efficient replacement windows, from traditional casement and double-hung windows to custom-built shaped and garden Direct windows. Our top-rated team is committed to ensuring the comfort and satisfaction of our customers in and around Maryland Heights, MO by delivering the best products and services the market has to offer. To set up an appointment or request a free, no-obligation quote, call us at (314) 690-5800. You can also reach us through our contact form!