There are a few good reasons to choose Replacement Windows in Washington DC. New windows aren’t as drafty, they tilt in for easier cleaning, and no storm shutters are required. Below are some things homeowners should know before they opt for window replacement.
It Won’t Pay for Itself
The best dual-pane windows available today are twice as efficient as the single-pane windows of 20 years ago. However, because windows are only a small part of a home’s exterior envelope, new ones will only result in a 5-15% energy savings. The average American homeowner pays roughly $1000 per year in cooling and heating costs, meaning that it would take over a century to recoup the investment.
Choose the Right Materials
As most homeowners and renovators know, today’s solid wood products aren’t as durable as those used decades ago. To avoid window rot, consider alternatives to solid wood. Vinyl windows are an affordable option, as are aluminum-clad wooden windows. This cladding is available in a variety of colors, and the finish is guaranteed for up to 20 years. However, clad windows are about 20% more expensive than the unclad variety.
Repairs May be an Option
Just because old windows are rattly, drafty, or hard to open doesn’t mean that Replacement Windows in Washington DC are the only choice. Window restoration experts can free stuck sashes, replace broken glass and hardware, and add weather stripping. The overhaul costs between $100-$350 per window and repaired windows are almost as efficient as new ones.
Aesthetics are Important
When a house is sold, the owner gets roughly 73% of his or her window investment back. However, if they choose the wrong windows, the home can actually lose value. It’s important to match the original windows’ appearance as closely as possible to preserve the home’s aesthetic appeal.
There are two ways to replace a home’s windows. A contractor can pull out the inside and outside trim to install new units, or they can use window inserts without removing the trim. The latter option can save up to $300 in labor costs for each window, but it may yield diminished energy savings. Contact Master Seal Online to learn more about options for Replacement Windows in Washington DC.
