Energy Star Replacement Windows
Posted by SarahVinyl home replacement windows are a wise investment, there’s no doubt about it. vinyl home replacement windows help homeowners conserve energy, lowering heating costs. They improve a home’s appearance and can raise resale value.
However, before you can enjoy the benefits of vinyl home replacement windows, you have to purchase vinyl home replacement windows.
While price isn’t the only factor in selecting replacement home windows, it’s certainly a factor. This becomes particularly important in homes that have multiple windows that require replacing. Some houses have a minimal number of windows, but as a rule of thumb, the newer a home is, the more windows it has. This can result in a situation where you find yourself considering purchasing 15, 20, or even 25 vinyl home replacement windows.
How can you upgrade your home’s windows while breaking your budget? Luckily, you have a number of options.
The first option is to rehabilitate your existing windows. This option is generally reserved for attractive, original windows in older or historic homes. A window is basically taken apart, and then repaired and rebuilt. Because this option does not alter the basic energy efficiency of the home, no subsequent savings occur. The cost for window rehabilitation varies by region, but generally comes in for less than $200 per window. Additionally, window rehabilitation services tend to be easy to find in areas where there are lots of historic homes, and practically non-existent in other areas. This may play a role in the cost of your window rehabilitation project.
The next option is window replacement inserts. If your window frames are in good condition — free from rot, cracks, or damage — you may be able to upgrade your home windows with replacement window inserts. Homeowners who wish to preserve a unique interior or exterior finish may like the minimal disruption of the home’s aesthetic that occur with home replacement window inserts. Prices for home replacement window inserts start at $200 and go up from there, largely based on window quality. If you choose to install the home replacement window insert yourself, there is a substantial cost savings.
Full window replacement is the next option. This is what most people think of when they say vinyl home replacement windows. Everything — sash, balances, frames, and sometimes exterior trim — is replaced. vinyl home replacement windows feature energy saving technology, including specially coated glass and gas filled insulating chambers. Prices vary by size, manufacturer, and product quality.For a ‘standard’ sized home replacement window, you can expect to spend at least $200. Additionally, because home replacement window installation is not a do it yourself job for most homeowners, you’ll have to factor in labor costs.
It’s important to remember that, to save money, you can address each window in your home individually. Consider the condition of your windows. Those windows that have received the most wear and tear might require full window replacement, while units that are in better condition could be upgraded with a window replacement inserts. Focus on quality and you’re sure to be pleased with the results!
We talk a lot on this blog about how vinyl home replacement windows can improve the look of your home — and it’s true! If your current home windows are older, single pane, leaky windows, or perhaps flimsy aluminum replacement windows, the appearance of your home may very well be improved by installing vinyl home replacement windows.
However, that’s not always the case, as one reader made clear to me. “I’m very comfortable with how my home looks,” this reader wrote. “I’ve worked hard to create a warm, inviting exterior and a dynamic, unique interior. I don’t want to undo what I’ve done in order to enjoy the energy vinyl home replacement windows can offer. Am I out of luck?”
The answer to that question is absolutely not! Replacement home window manufacturers are very aware of how much work and energy some homeowners have put into existing facades and interiors. They offer solutions like double hung replacement window inserts to allow homeowners the chance to take advantage of the energy efficiency home replacement window provide.
Double hung replacement window inserts are created to be installed in the pocket of an existing window opening. This pocket consists of the space created after all the ‘works’ of the window — the old sash, counterweight balance system, and parting stops — have been removed. All of the decorative elements of the window — interior and exterior — remain undisturbed.
Using double hung replacement window inserts offers the best of both worlds. A homeowner can enjoy all the benefits of vinyl home replacement windows: the energy efficiency, low e coatings to eliminate solar gain, UV protection, and insulated glass, while retaining the treasured appearance of the home. Additionally, double hung replacement windows often feature tilt-in hinges that make for easy cleaning.
Tags: energy star, replacement windows