It's all about the windows | Colorado Springs Vintage Homes Blog

Windows

Colorado Home Improvement Part I

With a major snowstorm in the works in Colorado, I thought it may be a good time to talk about windows — as they are an investment in your home. If you are considering purchasing new windows, here are some ideas and tips you might consider: Tom Pic 1 15 percent

Reasons to replace: If your house has ugly, older aluminum, steel or cheap warn wood windows, replacing your windows can definitely enhance your home as well as provide a major energy savings. There may also be all types of other reasons you want to replace them …….if you only have single pane windows …… if they are cracked ……..if the seals are broken ……. if you can feel a cool breeze around them.

In the Colorado Springs area, there were may houses that were built in the 80’s that included lower quality wood windows. When you look at these homes now, many of the the windows don’t slide open, and the wood has warped; hence some of the seals are broken. I can’t imagine they are very energy efficient. All good reasons to look into replacing them. Also, some studies show that 25% to 40% of the heat in your house could be reduced with a window replacement.

Materials: There are many, many different options including wood, clad wood windows (wood on the inside and vinyl or aluminum on the outside), vinyl windows, aluminum windows, and steel windows. Each type has different benefits and costs associated with them. I found a wonderful article on Home Tips.com which gives a good explanation of the different types of window materials.

Shopping: The replacement-window business is highly competitive; which means you can get a good deal by doing some careful shopping. Interview at least two dealers , and ask them to provide the names of several recent customers whom you can call for feedback.

Extras: In the Colorado Springs area climate, low-e glass can be helpful. It’s a reflective metallic film on the inside of one glass pane that mirrors heat into the house in the winter and helps keep glare and the sun’s heat out in the summer.

Glass rating: You may want to make sure your new windows are Energy Star rated. The designation means that the units have been tested by the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council – an industry group) and are certified to meet the latest government regulations for overall window efficiency.

Warranties: There are transferable warranties that come with many window packages. Look for one that includes a lifetime glass-breakage guarantee. Also, note that most of them require re-registration with the dealer each time the house is sold.

Cost: You’ll spend anywhere from $300 to $500 per opening for new basic windows – more for unique configurations such as bays, bows, octagons and picture windows.

Savings: You can recapture most, if not all, of the cost in energy savings, but it will take the better part of 10-15 heating seasons. Some expert think that windows can account for about a quarter of the heat loss in a typical house.