Replacing the old windows across your property is essential for keeping your home comfortable throughout the year. However, as much as homeowners want to replace their old windows, there may be some hesitation. Many homeowners may worry about window replacement costs and whether it is something they can justify.
While investing in upgraded windows can be costly, this cost is often quickly offset by your home’s boosted energy efficiency. This makes new windows one of the best investments you can make in your home. If you’re considering upgrading your old windows but are worried about window replacement costs, keep reading to learn more about the benefits you’ll reap from this home improvement.
How Energy-Efficient Windows Work
Energy-efficient windows are designed to reduce heat transfer between the inside and outside of your home. These windows have several features that aid in energy conservation, including:
- Double- or Triple-Pane Glass: Unlike older windows, new vinyl windows feature multiple glass panes, creating insulating layers of inert gases like argon or krypton.
- Low-E Coatings: These thin metallic layers reflect infrared and ultraviolet rays, helping to keep heat inside during winter and outside during summer.
- Improved Frames: Materials like fiberglass, vinyl, and composite frames provide better insulation than traditional aluminum.
- Warm Edge Spacers: These spacers separate the glass panes and reduce heat loss around the edges.
The advanced construction of these windows means less heat escapes in the winter and less heat enters in the summer, directly reducing your home’s reliance on HVAC systems.
How Much Does a Window Replacement Cost?
Energy-efficient window upgrades often cost more upfront than traditional, single-pane windows. On average, a standard energy-efficient window replacement costs between $300 and $1,000 per window. However, the ultimate price will depend on the size, style, frame material, and specific energy features of the windows.
For a typical home with 10 to 15 windows, a full window replacement costs $3,000 to $15,000 or more. While this figure may seem incredibly daunting upfront, the real question you should ask yourself is how much of this investment can be recouped through savings elsewhere, and how quickly. Although it may take some time, these windows often pay for themselves.
How These Windows Offset Window Replacement Costs
Window replacement costs may initially stop you from investing in this upgrade. However, with their many benefits, including the following, this is the best choice for your home.
1. Lower Monthly Energy Bills
The biggest and most immediate way window replacement costs begin to offset themselves is through your monthly energy bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners can save up to $465 per year when replacing single-pane windows around their homes with more efficient windows.
The savings will vary based on local climate, the age and condition of your previous windows, and how much energy your household typically consumes. In colder climates, better insulation means your heater doesn’t have to work as hard. In warmer areas, Low-E coatings block heat, keeping your home cooler. Over a 20-year lifespan, these annual savings add up to thousands of dollars.
2. Reduced HVAC Wear and Tear
When air leaks around your old windows, it isn’t uncommon for your HVAC system to work harder to keep your home comfortable throughout the year. While this might not initially seem like a problem, this may mean increased wear and tear on these systems as they run more frequently and for longer periods.
Some HVAC repairs are quick and inexpensive. However, as this wear continues, you may spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on repairs. Replacing your windows with something more efficient means you won’t have to worry about unexpected breakdowns. This means you can save on emergency repairs and instead send this money toward window replacement costs.
3. Increased Home Value
In many real estate markets, replacing old windows with more energy-efficient options is considered a high-ROI home improvement project. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, homeowners in South Carolina could expect to recoup about $14,000 of this project when selling their homes.
Potential buyers are increasingly aware of energy efficiency and are willing to pay more for homes with lower monthly utility costs, modern windows, and improved comfort. If you plan to sell your home in the next few years, your window replacement costs could quickly pay off, as these windows attract more interest from potential buyers.
4. Tax Credits and Incentives
Another way energy-efficient window replacement costs are offset is through government incentives. Some U.S. homebuyers may qualify for federal tax credits for installing ENERGY STAR-certified windows across their home. The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit allows you to claim up to 30% (or $600 total) of your window replacement cost.
Additionally, local and state governments and local utility companies may also offer rebates, discounts, and financing programs to encourage homeowners to invest in energy-efficient home additions. These incentives can further reduce your upfront investment and shorten your payback period significantly.
5. Protection Against UV Damage
When you think about UV damage, you probably think about the sun’s impact on your skin or outdoor furniture. However, old windows may also contribute to fading of interior carpet, furniture, drapes, artwork, and much more. While this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to plan for replacement, it may be essential over time.
These costs can quickly add up, especially as you replace larger furniture. By upgrading to new, advanced windows, you can save thousands of dollars by protecting your home’s interior. This savings is especially important if you are trying to preserve well-loved heirlooms that you want to continue passing down for generations.
Turn to Surface Bella for Expert Window Replacements
While window replacement costs may initially prevent you from investing in this home improvement, the cost easily pays for itself over time. If you’re planning to stay in your home for years to come, now is the time to invest. For homeowners in Greenville, SC, who are looking for a reliable window replacement company, turn to our team at Surface Bella. We provide homeowners with high-quality vinyl windows designed for their wants and needs.
If you’d like to schedule a no-obligation consultation to discuss window replacements, don’t hesitate to contact us today.