There are many reasons to take on a home improvement project. Maybe you just want a more updated space, or more modern conveniences. Perhaps it’s more of a necessity because something has broken or is no longer functioning as it should. Or, maybe you want to make improvements to your home in order to add to its value.
Replacing your windows is one of those projects that could very well fall into all three categories. New windows can update a space and provide a home with the benefits that come along with modern energy saving technology. They can also replace windows that are difficult to operate, or that no longer open, close, or lock. Finally, they can add value to a home, giving San Diego homeowners a higher sale price when the time comes to sell.
To reinforce our opinion that replacement windows are an excellent investment for San Diego homeowners, we spoke with several home experts about their thoughts on replacement windows. Here’s what they had to say:
Replacing Your Windows to Appeal to Home Buyers in San Diego
Melissa Tucci, a top San Diego realtor, told us, “New, dual pane, energy-efficient windows make a big difference when selling a home because they create more of a high-end feel and aesthetically look nicer. At the same time, buyers know they will benefit from not having to use the air conditioner or heater as much, since the windows help keep the home better insulated.”
A study by the National Association of Realtors backs up Melissa’s opinion, concluding that replacing your windows is one of the most beneficial things you can do to the exterior of your home to appeal to buyers. The same study also reports that homeowners can expect to recoup approximately 80% of the total cost of replacement windows when they sell their home, making them a great financial investment!
Replacing Your Windows to Increase Curb Appeal
Residential architect Mark Grisafe of M. Grisafe Architects touts the benefits of replacement windows from his perspective. He says, “Whenever we do a remodel, we try to steer our clients toward design solutions that are going to either add value to their home in a seller’s market or help their home stand out in a buyer’s market. Upgraded windows is definitely one component that achieves both.”
He also says that replacing windows is an effective and relatively inexpensive way to change the look of a home. Mark has recommended, for example, that homeowners replace their old aluminum windows with upgraded vinyl windows to give a home a more crafted feel.
Replacing Your Windows to Save on Energy Costs
According to Tim Carstairs, a building energy engineer at Carstairs Energy, “Replacing single pane windows with dual pane can save a lot on heating and cooling costs due to better insulative properties and reduced solar heat gain. Depending on the climate zone, [the savings] could be major.”
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) backs up this claim. ENERGY STAR, a program of the EPA that sets energy efficiency standards for products like replacement windows, estimates that a typical homeowner can save between $126 and $465 per year by replacing single pane windows with dual pane windows.
Replacing Your Windows to Better Enjoy Your San Diego Home
There are so many great reasons to replace your windows. You can save energy by not having to run your air conditioner as much in the summer or your heater in the winter. You can increase the value of your home and its curb appeal. But you can’t discount the intangible benefits as well—how new windows can brighten up a home, or how having windows that open and close with ease can help you enjoy the beautiful San Diego weather. You can’t put a number on those benefits and others like them. Many of our San Diego replacement window customers tell us how they wish they would have replaced their windows much sooner, because it just makes such a difference in the way their home feels.
If you want to learn more about the benefits of replacement windows—including the financial benefits—take a look at the helpful e-book titled Investing in Your Home: Replacement Windows and Doors.
