When do I Need Window Replacements?
What’s the Right Time or Circumstance for Window Replacement?
When or under what conditions should you replace the windows in your home, particularly if it isn’t that old? What we’ve found is that most people don’t consider replacing their windows for at least a dozen years. This is true even if they have poorly performing builder-grade windows. However, after 12 to 15 years most folks consider replacements particularly if they’re unhappy with their current windows. Reading this post will help you understand the benefits of window replacement and what questions to ask before doing it.
Insulated drapes block summer light & trap heat in winter, but can’t fix cheap windows
Question #1: How Long do I Plan to Live in My Home?
First, it’s helpful to ask yourself how long you’ll be in your home. If five to seven years, installing new windows will reduce energy costs over that period by nearly the window replacement price. Consider this the breakeven period for your window investment. Staying beyond that time increases savings, but moving earlier indicates replacement may not be economical. Rather than replacing windows now, some clients feel obligated to keep inefficient ones to get their money’s worth. Truthfully speaking, we’re not sure this makes a lot of sense. That’s because installing new windows provides a more comfortable home while also lowering expenses which recoup window cost. In the final analysis we believe the answer to timing for window replacement is very clear. If you’ll live in your home for more than five years and are unhappy with your windows, replace them immediately. This offers you the best of both worlds – doing something economically sensible and enjoying your home much more!
Question #2: Are My Windows Energy Inefficient?
Are you overspending on energy costs yet still miserably uncomfortable in your home year-round? If so, window replacement may be worth the instant relief it provides regardless of how long you’ll be there. Many people simply don’t realize that the average energy cost reduction from new windows is a whopping 30% to 50%! And that along with lower utility costs window replacement provides comfort in all parts of your home! So, no more freezing in the winter and melting in the summer!
Jalousie windows are especially energy-inefficient and should be replaced as soon as possible
Question #3: What if I Have to Sell Right After Window Replacement?
Sometimes a client needs to sell their home soon after installing new windows. If so, their realtor should promote the beauty and clarity the windows provide but also the major drop in energy costs. How much window replacement cost can you re-coup when selling? That’s debatable, but it never hurts to try especially with astute buyers who compare homes with and without new windows!
Question #4: Do I Need Help Heating & Cooling a Multi-Story Home?
Many people with multi-story homes experience the challenge of trying to evenly heat and cool each floor. Dual-zoned HVAC systems can help, but these homes will always be difficult to regulate by level. However, energy efficient replacement windows also make a difference by creating more temperature equilibrium between floors. How do we know this? Our Ringer Windows surveys from multi-story homeowners tell us. They indicate that these clients have an easier time keeping their homes evenly cooled and heated, so we know it works!
Before Window Replacement: Too many window grids & energy inefficiency
After Window Replacement: 30% to 50% energy cost savings & a nice, clean look!
Question #5: What are Other Reasons for Window Replacement?
Are there other reasons why people consider replacing their windows? Yes, and they can be as important as energy cost savings or comfort depending on your priorities and personal needs. Some additional factors for window replacement are:
Noise Reduction
Operability
Bigger & Brighter Views (broken, fogged seals)
Function
Curb Appeal
Noise Reduction – Depending on where you live and your surroundings, noise reduction can be very important. That’s why we offer high-quality replacement windows like our Elite 5400 Series with heavier frames and thicker glass. Features like these make them much better at reducing outside sound and noise. We’re confident that our replacement windows help to significantly reduce noise in most client homes. Why? Because they report to us that sound reduction with our double-strength glass is very noticeable. Lastly, it also creates an immediate improvement and never degrades.
Operability – One of the most common operability issues with new construction windows is balance system failure. This is the mechanism that allows the sash to smoothly slide up and down and also remain in place when opened. When the balance system fails a window won’t stay open, or worse, open at all. Thankfully, Ringer replacement windows solve this problem and our balance systems are covered by a limited lifetime warranty.
Before Window Replacement: A fogged window with seal failure
After Window Replacement: A clear view without fogging (covered by our warranty!)
Bigger & Brighter (non-fogged) Views– Another common challenge with cheap, new construction windows is seal failure. To explain this we need to get into a few details about window construction. Dual-pane glass like ours is permanently sealed together with something called a spacer system. When it fails, moisture can collect inside the window making it forever cloudy or fogged. However, high-quality Ringer replacement windows feature a state of the art spacer system that’s guaranteed to never fail. That’s why our windows are renowned for their reliability and lifetime crystal clear views.
Function – Regardless of the many looks, styles, and features we offer, sometimes people only want a specific function in replacement windows. This applies to our double-hung tilt-in windows which allow for easy cleaning. Their unique ability to open at an angle for exterior glass access makes them quite popular. Another important function people ask for are special sash placements for bigger views. Contact us to talk about more!
Curb Appeal – Anyone who has sold a home knows there’s nothing quite as important to its value as curb appeal. That’s why if window color, style, or poor design is reducing it, many folks seek a change. There’s no doubt that energy efficiency, sound control, and views are often part of window replacement. However, sometimes just a color change can make all the difference in the world!
I hope this blog is helpful to you. Please also know that I always seek useful feedback. So, if you have any helpful comments or suggestions, please email them to info@ringer windows.com. We’d love to hear from you!
Greg Ringer, Owner, Ringer Windows
Contact Us About Our High-Quality Vinyl Windows & Patio Doors Today!
Submit a contact form or call 512-989-7000 today about our high-quality replacement windows. We’ll visit with you and provide a FREE estimate! Ringer Windows is the only local window manufacturing company in central Texas. Our experts are ready to assist with your vinyl new construction or replacement window needs. Also, be sure to ask about our full-service window installation. You’re just a local phone call away with Ringer Windows!
