When it comes to home improvement projects, replacing the old windows in the home is probably one of the least exciting options. Most people want to do things like a kitchen remodel or install shiny new appliances. However, when it comes to the value of the project, there are few upgrades that can compete with new windows.
One of the main reasons that getting new windows will be a good value upgrade for the home comes down to the fact that most older homes have windows that are terribly inefficient. If you have a home that was built in the 1980s or before, then there is a good chance that your windows are single-pane. If this is true, then much of the money that you are spending to heat and cool the home is literally going right out the window.
Along with the glass being less efficient, the frames can also start to cause problems as they age. As time goes by, the seal on window frames will deteriorate and allow more airflow through the window and this can cause drafts in the home and allow heating and cooling to escape. When it adds up over the course of a year, this cost can be significant.
Additionally, newer windows can be better for preventing the heat gain that can be caused by solar radiation. With newer windows – especially those approved by the Energy Star program – you can reduce the heat gain in the summer and make it more efficient to run the air conditioner during the summer months. Energy Star certified double-pane windows block out much of the solar radiation that causes heat gain while still allowing the light from the sun to come through.
New windows can do more than just make the home more efficient and more comfortable; they can also help to make the home more peaceful. With new windows that are installed correctly, it can significantly reduce the amount of outside noise that enters the home. This will make the home environment more relaxed and more enjoyable.
Now, if you do not have the money to replace all of the windows in your home, there are some other options. The first thing that you could consider is replacing the windows one section at a time. Additionally, you could consider a variety of different types of window repair. For some homes, having the glass replaced or getting the frames repaired can make as much of a difference as getting new windows.
Getting new windows might not capture the imagination in the way that many other home improvements will, but it is a project that is worth considering. At Montclair Construction, we have experienced professionals that can handle all of your window replacement and repair needs. Contact us today for more information about home improvement projects in the San Francisco and Oakland area.
