Did you know that replacing all the windows in a standard 3-bedroom home can run between $3,000-$10,000?
It’s no wonder when you’re choosing replacement windows for your home you will want something that will last for years to come.
New windows can make it more comfortable and quieter, improve its appearance and lower your energy costs. You might not think too much about your windows but they are a key part of your home’s insulation.
Are you in the market for replacement windows? This is a great investment for all the reasons mentioned – and it can even help sell your home faster if and when you decide to move to a new home or city.
At Paramount Siding & Windows in Denver, we’ve got your back. Keep reading to learn tips from our experts when it comes to choosing replacement windows for your home.
Consider the Weather
When shopping for new windows you want to make sure they are the best choice for the location of your home. Windows are rated based on their performance in specific environments.
Not all windows perform equally in extreme heat or extreme cold, both of which we get here in the Denver metro area.
Some windows don’t hold up well in storms or high winds. Zero in on the windows that perform according to where you live. We can certainly point you in the right direction.
Do You Need Replacements?
Before you invest money in upgrading your windows, double-check that they actually need to be replaced. Sometimes people think they need a replacement because the windows stop insulating like they used to.
However, if your window frame is structurally sound, a simple fix to the problem might be to install window inserts.
While 20% of the air that penetrates your home comes from windows, doors and even skylights, window inserts can be placed within the existing frame and help cut down on drafts. They help insulate your windows without replacing all of your windows.
At Paramount, we’ll never push you into choosing replacement windows for your home if we can find a solution that better fits your needs and budget.
If You Want Energy Savings
If you’re looking to replace your windows because your electric bill is high, then energy saving windows might be the option for you. When choosing replacement windows for your home, there are other four factors to consider regarding energy efficiency.
- Use of coatings – A “Low-E coating” can be applied directly to the inner or outer surfaces of your window panes. This coating reflects heat but still allows complete passing of light through the glass.
- Window design – Windows with multiple glass panes placed parallel to each other are efficient at preventing heat transfer.
- Window locations – Depending on where the windows are in your home will help you decide if you need double or triple panes and how many coatings.
- Installation method – If your energy efficient windows are not placed correctly you won’t have the results you want. Hiring an experienced professional to install your new windows will ensure they are air sealed and caulked to ensure you get the energy efficiency you are looking for.
What Features Should You Look for?
Learn which features are worth it and which ones aren’t. Paying more doesn’t always mean getting a better product. You’re going to want to compare features on the windows you’re looking at.
Some features windows come with might include:
- Inward tilt for easy cleaning
- Fine mesh screens
- Simulated divided light grills
- Impact resistant glass
- Triple pane windows
- Full screens
- Low-E coatings
Compare to see which features are worth it to you and if they’re worth it for the weather here in Denver. Upgrades can double the price of the windows you choose. Focus on the features that will also add value.
Selling Your Home in the Future
If you think you might sell your home at some point in the future, replacing your windows can increase your home’s resale value. It will also add to the curb appeal of your home. Buyers prefer not to put a lot of labor into home improvements, making upgrades a smart decision if you want to sell quickly and for top dollar.
Repair Instead of Replace
Windows installed before 1970 just might be worth repairing instead of replacing. For example, wood that was used for windows back in the day was typically old-growth and more durable than the lumber used nowadays.
Problems older windows have usually include:
- Broken panes
- Crumbling putty
- Painted shut sashes
These problems are less expensive to repair than to replace the entire window. If you prefer to keep the historic look of the home repairing might also be a better option.
Choosing a Glass Package
The glass package is an important component of a window when it comes to saving energy. The following explains the components that create an energy efficient glass package.
Krypton Gas
This gas is invisible, odorless, and denser than air and argon gas. Krypton gas is filled between the glass panes. It’s common in dual pane windows.
Dual and Triple Pane Glass
Dual pane windows are the standard choice. This is two panes of glass with airspace in the middle. Triple pane glass gives a third pane in the window which gives it extra energy savings and blocks more sound.
Low E-Glaze
This reduces the heat that’s transferred into your home. During the summer it reflects sunlight back outside and keeps the home from heating up. During the winter it allows sunlight to stream through the glass and keep the home warm.
Argon Gas
This is an invisible, odorless gas that’s denser than air but not as dense as krypton gas. This gas is filled between the gas panes to create an efficient replacement window.
Choosing Replacement Windows for Your Home Is Easy
Choosing replacement windows for your home is an important job. It’s a project that costs a lot of money to do properly. Doing research is a smart idea so that you won’t regret your window choice in the future.
Want professional advice? Paramount Siding & Windows in Denver would love to help you! Contact us for a free consultation to discuss the best options for your needs.