Do New Windows Increase Home Value?

New windows are something every homeowner thinks of at one time or another. But, between the cost and time involved, many put off installing new windows until it’s an absolute necessity. Here we’ll go over four signs it’s time to replace your windows, popular window styles, and answer the important question — do new windows increase home value?

4 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Windows

While every homeowner wants to squeeze every cent in value from the windows, there comes a time when it’s time to replace. Here are four telltale signs it’s time for your windows.

1. Visibly Damaged

Window damage presents a range of issues for homeowners, from energy loss to a security risk. Visible damage includes broken glass, window condensation and fog, or water damage to the casing. Interior condensation or fog is a sign the seal between the windowpanes has failed and is allowing moisture to enter. Broken or cracked glass decreases energy efficiency as the opening, no matter how small, allows unconditioned air into the home. Plus, it’s an easy entry point for a home intruder.

2. Drafty and high heating bill

Do you turn up the thermostat in the winter to ignore the drafty air blowing in through the windows? Then it’s time to replace them. Windows, like many parts of a home, have come a long way in terms of energy efficiency. While the initial replacement cost seems high, the return in lower utility bills and more comfort is worth the expense.

3. Condensation between window panes

Double-pane windows have been a common choice among homeowners for years. When new, the space between the panes is filled with an insulating gas; the panes are sealed to prevent the gas from escaping. But, over time and/or due to damage, the seal can crack or break down which allows condensation to form with the temperature difference inside the home and in the outdoors.

4. Outdated style

Curb appeal applies to any part of the home’s exterior, including the windows. Wonky window shapes or outdated colors and textures are difficult to maintain and repair, not to mention the diminished value if you try to sell the home. Replacing outdated windows lets you add consistent style to the home while adding monetary value for now and in the future.

Are New Windows a Good Investment?

Yes! In fact, installing new windows in your home provides one of the highest returns on investment of home renovation projects. In 2021, vinyl window replacement recouped 68.6% of the total cost on average nationally, while replacing wood windows returned 67.4%. These percentages can be higher or lower depending on where you live in the United States.

Popular Types of Windows

Double Hung

This type has been popular for years and is known for the two sashes that slide up and down, letting you open either the top or bottom part of the window. Older double hung windows have the counterbalances inside the wall pockets behind the case moldings. Modern versions use springs hidden in the side tracks for counterbalance. These windows are often found in bungalows, classic rambler, farmhouse, and other traditional-modern design homes.

• Pros: A wide availability makes the price of double-hung windows reasonable, and the vertical tracks usually don’t collect dirt as much as other styles.
• Cons: Counterbalance springs wear over time and need occasional maintenance to open smoothly. The large openings, usually on the bottom, can make the window a break-in hazard.

Casement

If your windows have a crank that opens them on hinges horizontally, you have casement windows. Casement windows are the second-most popular windows, only to double hung. The popularity is linked to the ability to catch and direct breezes into the home when properly positioned. These windows also have more modern style than casement windows.

• Pros: The window seal of a casement is better at keeping out drafts than double-hung windows, and are good at channeling cool outside air into your house.
• Cons: Strong winds can break a casement window from the home if it’s fully extended, and the mechanical cranking mechanism has a high failure rate due to wear.

Bay Window

Bay windows are usually installed in an extension from the outward wall surface. They get the name when the extension shape is basically square; most are the center window with at least one pair of double-hung or casement windows on the flanking sides. Bay windows are common in living rooms, family rooms, or parlors, and overlook a landscaped setting.

• Pros: Bay windows create a design statement, are ideal for constant outdoor views, and can act as a small indoor greenhouse.
• Cons: These windows are expensive to install, with a substantial amount of framing work for headers and roof coverings. They also usually lack a proper air seal which creates a heat loss issue.

If you’re looking for a home renovation project that does add value to your home in multiple ways, new windows are the way to go. Contact a Bell Bros Window Professional Today!