As the new year progresses, many homeowners start looking for home improvement projects to ensure their houses will be ready once the warmer weather returns. One of the areas many homeowners look is their windows. You may want to replace your windows to improve energy efficiency, to up its curb appeal, or to enhance its overall value. Think this might be the year to replace your windows? Here is more information to help you decide.
Consider the Condition and Age of Your Windows
The most obvious sign that it might be time to replace your windows is the age and condition of the ones you currently have. Windows typically last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, depending on the materials used and the quality of the installation. If your windows are on the older side, it’s important to inspect them for signs of wear and tear.
Some signs your windows need to be replaced include:
- Difficulty opening or closing: If your windows are sticking or no longer open and close smoothly, this can be both a security and safety issue, as well as a sign of the window’s deteriorating condition.
- Drafts and air leaks: If you feel drafts near your windows or notice that your heating and cooling bills are rising, your windows may not be sealing properly. This can significantly impact your home’s energy efficiency.
- Condensation: Fogging or condensation between double-pane windows indicates a failure in the seal, reducing the window’s insulation properties.
- Visible damage: Cracked frames, broken glass, or warping can affect the function of your windows. While minor damage can be repaired, severe issues may require full replacement.
Think About Curb Appeal and Home Value
Replacing your windows is not only an investment in comfort but also an investment in your home’s value. If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, new windows can significantly increase its curb appeal and make it more attractive to potential buyers. Outdated, damaged, or unattractive windows can be a turn-off to buyers and may even cause your home to linger on the market longer.
New windows, on the other hand, can add a fresh, modern look to your home’s exterior. Whether you choose sleek, contemporary designs or classic, traditional styles, replacing your windows can boost your home’s aesthetic appeal. Plus, window upgrades can improve the overall functionality and comfort of your home, which is a selling point in itself.
Additionally, many homeowners find that new windows improve the interior ambiance of their home by letting in more natural light and offering clearer views of the outdoors. If you’re looking to enhance both the interior and exterior of your home, 2025 might be the right time to invest in a window replacement.
Take Energy Efficiency into Consideration
One of the primary reasons homeowners choose to replace their windows is to improve energy efficiency. Inefficient windows can be a major contributor to high heating and cooling costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, windows can account for up to 25% of your home’s energy loss. If you have older windows or ones that are poorly sealed, your HVAC system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature inside, leading to higher energy bills.
Replacing outdated windows with modern, energy-efficient options can reduce heat transfer and help maintain a comfortable indoor climate. Look for windows with a Low-E coating, which helps reflect heat back into the home during the winter and blocks excess heat during the summer. Additionally, windows with multiple panes of glass and gas fills between the panes offer superior insulation.
If your utility bills have been climbing steadily over the past few years, investing in energy-efficient windows in 2025 could help you start saving money in the long run.
Think About the Cost
As with any home improvement project, the cost of replacing your windows is a significant factor in the decision-making process. Window replacement can be a costly endeavor, with prices varying based on factors such as the number of windows, the type of windows, and the complexity of the installation. On average, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1,000 per window, with high-end options reaching even higher.
That said, the return on investment (ROI) for window replacement is generally high. In fact, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, homeowners can expect to recoup approximately 70-75% of the cost of window replacement when they sell their home. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, new windows can lead to energy savings, which helps offset the upfront cost over time.
Before proceeding with window replacement in 2025, it’s important to assess your budget and get multiple quotes from reputable contractors. While the upfront cost may seem daunting, it’s essential to consider the long-term savings and benefits that come with the investment.If you’re still not sure whether or not you should replace your windows this year or if you’ve made the decision to do so but aren’t sure which types to choose, reach out to the friendly and knowledgeable team at HomeWise Roofing & Exteriors. They would be happy to guide you to the right decision.