But How do you know when it’s time to replace your windows? And when you do, are energy-efficient windows worth the investment?
This is a question that many homeowners face at some point. With the variety of options available, the cost of replacement windows, and the promises of long-term benefits, it can feel overwhelming.
To help guide you through the decision-making process, we’ll explore the benefits, energy savings, ROI, lifespan, and the overall value of replacement windows.
Understanding Replacement Windows
Replacement windows are not only a great way to spruce up the exterior of your home, they are also an investment in comfort, efficiency, and even value. Replacement windows are made to fit into the existing window openings of your home, providing better insulation, improved energy efficiency, and sometimes even better aesthetics.
When looking for replacement windows, it helps to know the different types of windows. From double-hung to casement to sliding to picture windows, each style has its own distinct features and benefits. The ideal option for you can make a world of difference.
But before we dig into the specific styles and brands, let’s discuss the reasons so many homeowners go with replacement windows in the first place.
What Are the Main Benefits of Replacement Windows?
The benefits of replacing your windows extend well beyond looks. Yes, new windows can do wonders for your home’s aesthetic, but the benefits aren’t limited to looks. It include energy efficiency, maintenance and long-term savings, too.
Improved Energy Efficiency
Windows account for a large percentage of heat loss or gain in your home—up to 25-30% of residential heating and cooling energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. If your windows are old or poorly sealed, you could be losing both energy and money.
Modern replacement windows, especially those with energy star ratings, are designed with advanced materials that significantly reduce air leakage. In fact, energy star-certified windows can lower household energy bills by an average of 12%, keeping your home comfortable year-round while reducing your environmental footprint.
In fact, the primary advantages of replacement windows are the energy savings of the replacement, which can have a serious impact on your utility bills.
Low-Maintenance Options
Many newer replacement windows, especially vinyl options, are low maintenance. Unlike traditional wooden windows that might require repainting or resealing, modern materials are designed to stand up to the elements and remain looking good with little to no effort on your part. This can make a world of difference if you don’t want to keep maintaining your windows.
Enhanced Curb Appeal
The appearance of your windows contributes profoundly to the aesthetic appeal of your home, and there is no denying that. Replacing old windows on your home to give them a sleeker modern look or a more beautiful traditional style can make a dramatic impact on the externally visible side of your home.
If your existing windows are outdated or damaged, replacement windows increases the value of your home. New windows will give your home a fresh new look and can boost its marketability.
Increased Home Value
Speaking of value, many homeowners are surprised by just how much new windows can increase their home’s resale value. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, homeowners can recoup an average of 67% of the cost of midrange vinyl replacement windows at resale.
For upscale wood replacement windows, the ROI can reach around 66%. This substantial return makes new windows a smart investment, especially for those looking to enhance their home’s marketability.
Whether you’re going to sell or want to live in a nicer home, replacing windows is usually a money well spent.
How Replacement Windows Improve Energy Efficiency
Old windows are notoriously inefficient. They can be drafty, letting warm air out in the winter and cool air out in the summer. New, energy-efficient windows, however, are built to address this issue.
- They incorporate advanced technology, like double or triple glazing, Low-E glass coatings and gas fills to create a thermal barrier maintaining a stable temperature within your home.
- So just how much might energy-efficient windows save you? The potential savings can be huge. Many homeowners also notice their heating and cooling costs are significantly reduced after they replace their old windows.
- Not only will you be more comfortable in your own home, but you’ll be doing your part to reduce energy consumption. This makes energy efficient windows a smart choice environmentally and financially.
Evaluating the Cost of Replacement Windows
The cost of window replacement is one of the biggest worries that homeowners have when they think about replacing their windows. It’s true that having all the windows in your home replaced can be a major investment.
On average, window replacement costs homeowners around $1,100 per window, with typical ranges between $1,100 and $1,700 per window. This includes both materials and professional installation. However, prices can vary based on factors such as window type, materials, and your specific location.
In Minnesota, for instance, some homeowners have reported quotes ranging from $19,000 to $26,000 for replacing six window openings and two patio doors, depending on the window brand and features selected.
While the initial cost may seem substantial, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits. High-quality, energy-efficient windows can lead to significant savings on your energy bills.
Some estimates suggests that homeowners can save up to 15-25% of their energy bill per year after replacing old windows with energy-efficient models.
In case you are still skeptical about the costs, it’s essential to have a replacement window cost guide so you know what to expect. Pricing will depend on the window type, materials, and installation.
The key point, however, is that in the long run this mid- to high-end investment can be repaid over time even if, in the short term, the prices can look quite painful
ROI on Replacement Windows: Is It a Smart Investment?
Upgrading your windows isn’t purely a cosmetic upgrade, it’s an investment. And like any investment, you want to see if it’s worth it. Replacement windows return on investment (ROI) can differ, however, many homeowners experience a positive ROI when they substitute old, inefficient home windows.
The biggest influence on the ROI of window replacement comes from how much your new windows boost your home’s energy efficiency. As noted previously, energy–efficient windows can save you quite a bit of money over the years, resulting in a much lower overall investment cost.
However, that’s not where the value ends. Installing new windows can also significantly boost your home’s resale value. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, homeowners typically recoup 68-75% of the cost of midrange vinyl replacement windows and 66% of upscale wood replacement windows when selling their homes. This means that, in addition to saving money on energy bills, you could also enjoy a higher sale price when it’s time to move.
Pros and Cons of Replacement Windows
As with any major investment, consider the pros and cons before you commit. Let’s consider both sides of the equation.
Pros:
- Energy efficiency
- Curb appeal
- Low maintenance
- Home value increase
Cons:
- Initial cost: New windows may save you money over time, but the initial cost can be considerable.
- Installation: A window replacement can take time, depending on the size and complexity of the job, and will disrupt your home.
- Potential for unexpected issues: Like any home renovation project, surprises can occur, for example, structural complications that might necessitate extra work.
So, are replacement windows a good bang for the buck? If you want lower energy bills and a more comfortable home, then replacement windows are 100% worth it.
Lifespan of Replacement Windows: How Long Do They Last?
So, how long do replacement windows last? High-quality replacement windows can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, depending on the materials and maintenance. Here’s a breakdown of common window materials and their average lifespans:
Vinyl Windows:
- Lifespan: 20–40 years
- Low maintenance, resistant to moisture and rot, and ideal for longevity.
Wood Windows:
- Lifespan: 15–30 years (with proper maintenance)
- Beautiful and timeless but require regular care, such as sealing and painting, to prevent rot and weather damage.
Aluminum Windows:
- Lifespan: 20–30 years
- Durable and lightweight but prone to corrosion in humid climates if not well-treated.
Fiberglass Windows:
- Lifespan: 30–50 years
- Extremely durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance, making them a premium option.
Composite Windows:
- Lifespan: 30–40 years
- Made from a combination of materials like wood and resin, offering durability with minimal upkeep.
When selecting replacement windows, it’s important to think about the durability, maintenance needs, and climate suitability of each material. Investing in high-quality windows can ensure your home stays comfortable and stylish for decades to come.
Do Replacement Windows Add Value to My Home?
As we noted earlier, replacement windows can increase the value of your home both in curb appeal and actual resale value. Whether you plan to sell in the near future or simply want to have a nice home for the long term, considering new windows is a good investment.
Many buyers view modern, energy-efficient windows as an indicator that a home was well cared for. In fact, having an energy-efficient property can help your building stand out and give you a competitive edge in the market, particularly in areas where energy efficiency is a priority.
Common Misconceptions About Replacement Windows
Before we continue, it’s important to clarify some of the more common misconceptions regarding replacement windows.
- “They’re too expensive.” Though new replacement windows tend to be a large upfront investment, but the energy savings over time frequently makes up for the initial investment.
- “I don’t need them—my windows are still functional.” Even if your windows look great, they might be losing energy and undermining your home’s comfort. If necessary, replace them to improve energy efficiency and aesthetics.
- “All windows are the same.” Replacement windows are not all the same. It’s important to select windows that meet your home’s individual needs, whether that be energy efficiency or aesthetics.
Transform Your Home with Replacement Windows from Boelter Is Better!
Are new windows worth the cost? For many homeowners, the answer is a definite yes. With energy savings, increased home value, and reduced maintenance, you make a wise investment for the short- and long-term benefits of window replacement.
Whether you want to improve your home’s appearance, increase energy efficiency, or improve your home’s resale value, replacement windows provide substantial benefits.
At Boelter Is Better, we understand the importance of a solid window installation. As specialists in roofing, siding and windows, you can rely on our years of experience to help you find the right windows for your home and help you through the window replacement process.
Contact us today to see how our professionals can elevate your home with high quality, energy efficient windows.