Guest Post by Chris Woodard: 5 Benefits of Quality Replacement Windows Homeowners Need to Know

Imagine a house with no windows, just four walls, and a door. I doubt anyone would want to live in such a house with no sunlight shining through. I don’t know about you but I would go mad staring at walls with nothing much to see.

Windows may seem simple in concept but they actually have a huge impact on the way your house feels. For instance, windows are key to regulating your home’s climate as air, heat, and cold temperature enter and leave your home through them. They also provide natural lighting, which can enhance your comfort while you’re inside your home. Windows can also provide you with a great view of the outdoors that can aid in relaxation.

That said, windows are usually taken for granted. Investing in new and better windows is probably not at the top of the list of home improvement projects that will increase your property’s value. After all, there are plenty of places in your home that you think will have a greater impact if you renovate them.

But replacing your home windows will benefit not just your comfort but also your home’s value in case you plan to sell in the future. In addition to boosting your home’s exterior and curb appeal, investing in quality replacement windows can give you enhanced comfort and quality of life, better safety and security, and even reduce energy costs.

Getting windows replaced can seem daunting, especially to homeowners who are not as experienced in doing home renovation projects. However, your windows will need to be replaced eventually. Like your gutters, roof shingles, and plumbing, your windows can deteriorate over time and will need to be replaced.

There are plenty of signs of deterioration that you can look into to evaluate whether you need a window replacement. For instance, do you experience difficulty in opening and closing your windows? Do you feel a cold draft or see moisture forming between your glass panes? Do you hear loud noises coming from the outside even when the windows are closed? If you are experiencing any of these, it may be time to get your windows replaced.

If you are still on the fence about getting a new set of windows, here are a few reasons why quality windows are a worthy investment.

1. Potential Energy Savings

Worn-out and drafty windows cost you money more than you think. When the frigid winter days come, your heating system tends to go into overdrive to combat the cold temperature brought by drafty windows. According to the US Department of Energy, the potential energy savings from reducing drafts in a home range from 10% to 20% per year. Newer windows usually have better energy efficiency and offer insulating features that can slash heating and cooling costs.

2. Noise Reduction

While I’ve mentioned that windows serve as a bridge to the outside world, sometimes you just want to shut off and enjoy the quiet of your home. If you live in a busy street, near a school, or even an airport, or if there is a construction going on nearby, old windows are likely unable to drown out the noise even when you close them.

Glass panes are rigid structures that make them great conductors of sound waves. A single pane of glass will do very little to stop noise from permeating into your home. While there is no way to completely soundproof your home, replacing windows with dual-pane or laminated glass can do the job. The greater the gap between two glass panes, the better the noise reduction.

3. Protection From The Elements

On good days, you want to open windows, bask in the sunlight, and let the air in. On days when the weather is inclement, however, you want to keep the harsh sunlight, strong winds, and strong rains out. Worn-out and inefficient windows can allow leaks that encourage the growth of mold and mildew. Unfiltered ultraviolet rays can contribute to the untimely fading of your furniture, carpeting, and other decorations.

You may address all of these issues by upgrading your windows. A good window replacement will eliminate drafts and leaks from inclement weather. Glass windows with specialized coating and tint can block a significant chunk of infrared and ultraviolet rays that cause fading.

4. Safety And Security

Old windows are a huge security flaw. If your windows open easily or don’t shut at all, it will be easier for someone to break into your home. On the other hand, a window that is too hard to open can pose a serious danger to your family in case of calamities such as a fire. Also, a transparent window can make it easier for thieves to see your valuables. Finally, a window that splinters into sharp shards can potentially injure your family when it breaks.

These reasons are enough to compel you to replace your old windows. When shopping around for windows, look for improved safety and security features. Tempered or laminated glass is a good choice in case the windowpane shatters. Tempered glass will shatter into granular chunks while laminated glass holds together. Supplementary locking systems such as bolt mechanisms are a great way to delay and deter unwanted guests. Safety and privacy films can also be used to obstruct views into your home.

5. Improved Curb Appeal

Curb appeal contributes to a potential buyer’s first impression of your home. When the time comes to move on and sell your property, it is important to maintain your home’s exterior. Aside from a fresh coat of paint or a well-maintained garden, your windows have a huge impact on your curb appeal. Investing in quality replacement windows with an aesthetically pleasing design will definitely lead potential buyers to your door.

There’s no doubt about the short term costs of getting replacement windows, especially if you have several windows in your home. However, the benefits that new windows will bring are too good to pass up—from improving your quality of life and safety to increasing your property’s resale value. Think of them as an investment that will give you a huge return in the long run.

About the Author

Chris Woodard is the Co-Founder of Handle.com, where they build software that helps contractors with cash flow and late payments by assisting in the filing of preliminary notices and mechanics liens, and providing financing options. Handle.com also provides funding for construction businesses in the form of invoice factoring, material supply trade credit, and mechanics lien purchasing.