It is estimated that 30% of a home’s heat goes out the windows. Is your home long overdue for replacement windows? The first thing you will want to do is assess all the windows in your home to know if it is time to replace some or all of them. As an additional incentive, the energy efficient home improvement credit allows homeowners to take advantage of a tax credit for qualifying home improvements. Here’s what to look for.
Broken glass or damaged window frames can leave space for unwanted and destructive insects such as termites to enter your home. Water seeping in from the outside can also create mold and mildew issues.
Wood rot or water damage on your window frames will not improve and will need to be addressed.
Is condensation forming on the inside of windows of your home? This tells you that air is leaking through the windows and/or your home is humid. Condensation between panes of double-paned glass indicates that the seal is no longer airtight.
Listen for the sound of a whistle coming through the window, letting you know there is a draft. You can also detect drafts by placing your hand on either the top or the bottom of the window sash where it meets the frame. If you feel air coming in, you have a draft.
Windows no longer opening or closing properly need to be replaced. Through years of opening and closing, it is likely that cracks will develop in the frame to the point where the windows no longer operate effectively. Over time, dirt and dust can also settle around your windows and make them hard to open and close.
Save on high energy bills. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that replacement of single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR-rated windows could save the average home between $101 and $583 each year. Keep in mind that these estimates vary from region to region across the country.
What’s on the market?
Once you have decided that some or all of your windows need to be replaced, the next step is to think about whether you want to make a replacement with identical windows or go with some other options. In addition to the traditional single-hung, double-hung or casement windows, those in the market for windows should check out some of the latest trends in windows before settling on a choice.
Tilt-and-turn windows offer several convenient features. The window functions in two ways, with opening and closing latches. In the tilt position, the window tilts either at the top or the bottom into the room, allowing ventilation while maintaining security. In the turn position, the window swings into the room to allow greater air flow and easy cleaning.
The tendency to bring indoors as much of the outdoors as possible is making itself present in all aspects of our homes’ decor. Windows are the perfect portals for connecting both our inner and outer worlds. Oversized windows or picture windows reflect this trend. Some manufacturers offer special shapes of windows that can be installed alone or be combined with other window shapes and sizes. Windows in circles, triangles, rectangles or even polygons are certain to make a dramatic statement in any room. This is an excellent choice for windows that look out on beautiful gardens or landscapes.
Black-tinted windows with corresponding black frames are finding a loyal following among those residing in modern-, farmhouse- or industrial-style homes. However, these visually striking windows bring a sleek, sophisticated aesthetic to any style of home. Tinted glass is an energy-efficient way to reduce heat from the sun coming through the windows.
Windows utilizing smart glass technology allow the homeowner to enjoy as little or as much privacy as they want by using their smartphone. This system switches glass windows from clear to translucent to opaque. Smart glass provides energy-efficiency for home heating and cooling. This technology comes with a high price tag; however, smart film is a less-expensive alternative. The film can be applied to existing glass.
Replacement windows should be the clear choice when an energy-efficient and stylish home is your goal. Contact us for help on opening the windows and letting the sun shine in your home.
Claudine Steinfurth
REALTOR®
(216) 409-4039
RE/MAX Above & Beyond
7570 Chippewa Road
Brecksville, OH 44141
