Lots of homeowners get sticker shock when window shopping (that is, buying new windows for your home, not window shopping at stores; though, there is sticker shock there too!) It’s no secret: replacing your windows is a big investment. In 2024, you can expect to pay $450 to $1,400 per window. The cost might have you wondering if the cost of replacement windows is worth it, or if you should hold off.
Like any home repair, replacing your windows involves a cost-benefit analysis. What most homeowners don’t know is that new windows can actually save you money in the long run, and some of these factors are overlooked.
How new windows can save you money
Replacement windows can save you money on energy bills, future repairs, and cleaning costs. Also, they can increase your home’s value, which is especially important to homeowners looking to sell in the future.
Here’s a more in-depth look at how new windows can save you money:
Save on energy
One of the biggest and most obvious benefits of replacing your windows is saving on energy costs. Energy-efficient windows are better at controlling your home’s temperature and ensuring your HVAC system doesn’t have to compensate for drafty windows.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, windows are responsible for up to 30% of the temperature loss in your home. Though window replacements are an upfront cost, a lot more money stays in your pocket when your window functions properly. This makes saving on energy a key factor in the decision to replace your windows.
Save on future repairs
As you repair windows through caulking, weatherstripping, or other measures, the cost of maintaining old windows adds up. Replacing your windows means repairs will not become necessary until further in the future, thus reducing your costs to repair and maintain your windows.
Increase home value
With an ROI as high as 85%, new windows can increase the value of your home. This is a huge benefit to homeowners looking to sell their home, as this increases curb appeal. New windows can completely change the look of a room and your home’s overall look. Not to mention, newer windows often attracts buyers due to the promise that the windows are energy efficient and won’t have to be replaced anytime soon.
Save on cleaning costs
While cleaning costs won’t make the biggest difference in saving you money, it’s an overlooked factor when deciding to buy new windows. It’s usually not top of mind for most homeowners, but new windows can save you money on cleaning costs. This is because new windows often have improved designs and sashes that make them easier to clean (this is why double hung windows are popular).
Cleaning your windows is an important part of maintaining their functionality and aesthetic. Older windows may require more time or additional supplies to keep clean (and time is money!). As such, people also opt to hire cleaning professionals to clean their windows to avoid the hassle.
Repairing vs replacing windows
Sometimes, repairing a window instead of replacing it is sufficient. Repairing a window can also buy you time if you don’t want to commit right away to replacing a window. It’s important to note that if the window is over 20 years old, doesn’t open and close properly, or is drafty, you should consider replacing it sooner.
When all of these factors are added up, replacing your windows turns out to be a good investment. Usually, the upfront cost of buying windows can be decreased when considering long term costs of maintaining windows and the burden of higher energy costs. Buying replacement windows is no small feat, but having all the right tools at your disposal can make the process easier.
We’re Your Milwaukee County Window Professionals
At Standard Windows & Doors, our team of experts will install your new windows with precision and care. We know replacing your windows is a big decision, and we’re proud to offer financing to alleviate the pressure of your window replacement and installation. Contact us today for more information on our financing options.
