How to Buy New Home Windows the Easy Way
In the Delaware River Valley, sometimes the need to buy new windows is obvious. Cold drafts and rotting sashes are common signs in aging homes. You might also notice that your windows won’t open and close as easily as they used to. Other times, the signs are a bit more subtle. You might notice that your heating bills have been increasing each winter or that condensation is building between the panes.
When it’s time for new windows, most homeowners feel overwhelmed and anxious. Windows typically last between 15 and 20 years, so you may have never had to make a change before. All homeowners, new and experienced, could still use some guidance in making their home window shopping experience easier, so here are some tips from the experts.
Related Article: Routine Window and Door Inspection
Are New Windows Really Worth It?
New windows are not just any home maintenance project. Upgrading your windows is considered an investment in the value of your home. The payback comes both when you can sell your home at a higher price and when you realize the amount of money you’ve saved in electric bills due to the improved energy efficiency.
New windows can bring substantial savings: Energy loss through your windows can be cut by 50% when you upgrade to new energy-efficient ones.
Upgrading your windows will also come with a ton of other benefits, including:
- Boosting the resale value of your home
- Improving healthy natural light
- Improving indoor temperature stability
- Increasing home ventilation and ease of operation
- Blocking damaging UV rays that harm your carpet and furnishings
- Improving security and safety
- Enhancing your home’s interior and exterior appeal
Now that it’s clear you could only benefit from upgrading your windows, let’s talk about how to enjoy your window buying experience.
How to Choose New Windows
You may be tempted to save time on research by simply choosing the same windows you already have installed. Of course, this option is the easiest way forward, but it may not be the right choice. The three basics you want to consider are:
- Window Material: What material is used to make the window frame and casing? Typically, the options are wood, clad wood, vinyl, aluminum, and fiberglass, and each material has its benefits and faults.
- Window Style: How does the window operate? Most people are familiar with the basic double-hung window, but other styles of operation may work better for the location and functionality within your home.
- Glass Type: This option refers to the glass panes in the windows, which can be customized for various purposes. When choosing glass, you should consider your needs for sound buffering, privacy, energy efficiency, UV protection, and more.
See Related Article: Double-Hung vs Casement, Which is Best for My Home?
How Can I Save Money When Replacing Windows?
Once you’ve specified your needs, it’s time to choose exactly which windows to buy. As with most products these days, you’ll want to keep both budget and quality in mind. Cheaper windows generally do not perform as well or last as long as many higher-end windows. If your budget allows, it is best to think in the long term with window replacement.
If you have a tight budget, make sure you’re clear about the quality of windows you’ll be installing. You can keep costs to a minimum by doing some homework and working closely with a professional window company that can help you work with your budget.
While you might be looking to save money on your new windows, remember that investing more money upfront could prevent you from having to replace your windows again too soon. Higher-end windows typically are also more energy-efficient, helping you to save money on energy bills over time.
Advance Inc. Supplies Top Industry Names in Windows
Here at Advance Inc., we work with the most innovative window manufacturers like Anderson, Okna, Vytex, Starmark Composite Windows, Provia, and more. We service all of Delaware as well as Southeastern Shore Maryland and Southeastern Pennsylvania. If you’re ready to upgrade your windows, you can call for an experienced consultant from Advance Inc. to visit your home for a free consultation.
Give us a call at (302)-803-4240 or contact us online. We are happy to help you get the windows you need at a price you can afford.