Windows are beneficial for homes, provide light and ventilation, act as a noise barrier, increase energy efficiency, and enhance visual appeal. However, old and worn-out windows hurt your home and pocket. Research shows that old and inefficient windows cost Americans $45 billion annually. Below are five ways your windows may be costing you money.
Increased Utility Bills
While your windows may look fine and function well, they can weaken your home’s energy efficiency. As windows age, they develop leaks that facilitate heat loss during winter and heat gain during hot summer months. The US Department of Energy reports that energy loss through windows can account for 20-35% of a household’s energy use.
You can lower energy bills and save hundreds of dollars annually by replacing your old windows with energy-efficient ones. In fact, replacing single-pane windows with Energy Star Windows can save homeowners between $126 and $465 per annum. Modern windows are treated with a low-E coating to reduce UV rays, notorious for causing heat gain indoors and fading furniture.
Decreased Home Value
Old and worn-out windows are not only an eyesore but also lower your home’s curb appeal, decreasing its value substantially. During a home sale, old windows can turn off potential buyers and increase time in the market. Also, you can’t sell your home for the top dollar.
On the other hand, new windows increase a home’s value and curb appeal, which is why many homeowners look for a local window installation service and get their old windows replaced before putting their homes on the market. Since windows come in numerous styles, materials, and designs, you can choose one that complements your home for a classy and cozy look. New windows increase your home’s energy efficiency and, thus, value. Additionally, they have an ROI of 68.6%, meaning you’ll recover the money spent on the replacement during the sale.
Increased Indoor Moisture
Old windows leak moisture into a home, causing extensive and expensive damage to personal belongings, appliances, floors, and furniture. High moisture levels also create a pleasant environment for mold and mildew to grow.
Mold is a nightmare for any home or business owner with adverse effects. Also, mold remediation is costly, and you can expect to incur between $1,108 and $3,393. If you notice peeling paint, wall discoloration, mildew smell, and rotting wood, your property may have excess moisture, and your windows may be the culprit.
Compromised Safety and Security
Dilapidated windows can jeopardize your home’s security and safety. It’s not rare for burglars to break into homes through windows, especially easy-to-break ones, and steal valuables and other possessions.
Replacing old windows promotes your home’s safety in several ways. First, new windows come with stronger frames and better locks and latches, thus offering greater protection against break-ins and burglary. You can also tint new windows to protect your home from onlookers and potential intruders. Apart from promoting safety, window tints can lower your home cooling costs by 30%.
Second, modern windows have safety glass that doesn’t break into large, dangerous shards. This reduces accidents, injury, and resulting medical bills, especially for homes with kids and pets. Lastly, impact windows are a good investment for homes in disaster-prone regions to minimize severe weather damage.
High Maintenance and Repairs Costs
Old windows are maintenance-intensive, and you must devote more time and effort to keep them in pristine shape. Worn-out wood windows, for instance, are high maintenance due to their vulnerability to rotting, swelling, and shrinkage. They may also require recurrent repairs due to age and wear and tear. Replacement parts for outdated windows can be hard to find and expensive. New windows are virtually maintenance-free and only require routine washing to maintain their functionality and beauty.
Old windows are a black hole for energy and money in households. They increase energy bills, compromise your family’s safety and security, lower home value, and increase repair costs. While window replacement may seem unnecessary and costly, it goes a long way to save money and enhance your home’s appeal. It also increases your home’s comfort level, which is priceless.
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