When selling your home, or planning renovations that could potentially add value, you need to think about each step you take so you can maximize your returns.
In these instances, homeowners often focus on flashier upgrades. A refreshed exterior, an updated kitchen or bathroom, a finished basement. But the truth is, these upgrades can be time-consuming and expensive.
Replacing windows is a quick and simple solution to increasing home value.
Here’s what you need to know about replacing windows and how it can impact price.
Will New Windows Increase the Value of House?
The short answer is: yes, mostly.
As will get into below, replacing windows in your home, especially if you are replacing all of them, can be expensive. And it is not like you can just tack this expense onto your sale price to increase your returns. But that does not mean that they are not a worthwhile investment.
Windows are some of the first things people notice about your home. New windows can immediately update an older home or provide new and fresh curb appeal.
Depending on your home’s build and layout, you may be able to dramatically change the interior vibe of your home by adding a new picture window, for example.
If you are planning to stay in your home, new windows can increase energy efficiency, saving you money in the long run. When selling, new, energy-efficient windows are an excellent selling point.
Even if these new windows don’t translate into a massive increase in monetary value for your home, they could be what distinguishes you from similar homes, helping you to stand out in an incredibly competitive marketplace.
When to Replace House Windows
Knowing when to replace house windows can help you assess the value of the upgrade. If your windows are relatively new and in good condition, it likely won’t add much value to replace them. But, if they are old or look like they’ve seen better days, replacing them can fetch you a better sale price.
Replace House Windows If
- You experience drafts. If you can feel air coming in or hear the wind whistling through the window, your windows are leaking air.
- Your energy bills are unusually high. Drafty windows will make heating and cooling your home more inefficient, driving up energy costs.
- You see condensation or frost. Condensation is caused by the warm inside air meeting the cooler window pane. While this can happen for a few different reasons, if you see it frequently, it could be time to replace your house windows.
- You see moisture between the panes. Double pane windows have gas inserted between the panes to increase insulation. They are supposed to have an air-tight seal. If you see moisture, it means this seal has broken and it is time for a replacement.
- The frames are warped or rotted. Over time, exposure to dampness and moisture can cause the frames to decay. In some cases, there may even be mould growth. If the frames are rotted, it’s time to replace the windows.
- There is visible damage. Windows protect you and your home from the harsh Ontario weather. Wind, snow, rain, ice, cold temperatures, and the sun’s UV rays can all cause damage to windows. If you see cracks or water damage, it’s time for a replacement.
How Much Do New Windows Cost?
The exact cost of new windows for your house will depend on a number of factors. Essentially, the costs will be based on the number of windows, the size of the windows, the shape and type, the frames, and other related materials.
On average, window replacement can run $800 to $4,000 per window or $8,000 to $11,000 total for a house with 10 windows.
Professional installers, like those at Energy Kingston Exteriors, will be happy to come to your home and provide a complete estimate, free of charge, so you can plan properly.
How To Choose New Windows for a House?
Choosing new windows for your house means you will have some important decisions to make.
Things to consider when choosing new windows for a house:
- Style: Style is one of the most important considerations. You will want new windows that update your home while still fitting in with the rest of the exterior.
- Materials: When replacing windows, you do not want cheap materials. To increase value in your home, you will need to use high-end wood or vinyl frames that will both look great and offer durability.
- Energy-Efficiency: Most modern windows are double-paned, meaning that air or gas is injected between the two panes to provide an additional layer of insulation. Be sure to talk to your window installers about the energy-efficient features of the brands they offer so you can identify the window that will be best for the climate, your home, and your wallet.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and talk to your window specialists about your options. These professionals will be able to help you narrow down your choice, finding the best, and most cost-effective solution for your window replacement.
Conclusion
While homeowners may think that making upgrades to the interior of their house, like modernizing the kitchen, will add to the resale value. And while this is true, the process may be costly, time-consuming, and inconvenient. Not all homeowners are in a position to invest the energy needed in this type of upgrade.
And what’s more, this type of upgrade is only effective in that room and may actually make the rest of the house appear more dated.
Replacing the windows on your home, however, upgrades the entire home and maybe a far easier way to increase home value.
If you are thinking of selling your home in the near future and want to maximize your returns, or you are in need of replacement windows, Energy Kingston Exteriors is here to help.
With over 40 years of window installation experience, we can help you find the perfect windows for your home improving energy efficiency, curb appeal, and home value!
Contact us today to get started!