Thinking of buying replacement windows? Window shopping doesn’t have to be overly time consuming or confusing.

 

Buying replacement windows can be a tricky proposition if you have not done it before. Information is not lacking on the subject, so because of the price vs benefit value, energy star factor and seemingly unlimited supply of options, the data can be overwhelming.

If you can answer the following questions when you start your window shopping you will go a long way to simplifying your project.

1. Make a checklist.

Old windows are drafty, and don’t operate? Are you trying to increase your home’s energy efficiency, do you want to upgrade the look? Are you trying to increase your home’s value? Reduce outside noise? Knowing what is important and what’s not important really helps. Write it down, if there is more than one making the decision, talk it out. But before your start shopping answer these questions.

2. Evaluate the price.

If you’ve never bought windows, the price can be a challenging thing to ascertain. A good salesperson should be able to help you, however, be careful, the price range quoted by salespeople can be mind boggling but it really isn’t that complicated. Savvy shoppers can expect to spend on average $500 to $700 for an installed, high-quality energy efficient window. This price should get you an energy star rated, 3′ x 6′ vinyl window in a standard color. Prices will rise as you add special colors, larger sizes and different operation methods, e.g. Casement, Awning, etc. If you have very large arch windows, the price will be higher. If you’re not really interested in energy efficiency, durability or windows that will last, you can spend less.

3. Assess all materials.

Vinyl is by far the most popular material for replacement windows today. Cost, resiliency and energy efficiency all weight in. Depending on who you talk to you may hear some very compelling arguments for a composite material made up of wood fiber and fiberglass. The composite material does make a very nice window, however, the up charge is astronomical. Smart buyers will determine if the additional price outweighs the overall value to their home. The truth is, quality vinyl windows, with thick frames, reinforced cross sections, and lifetime warranties can be extremely good windows; and when purchased in their extruded color, generally white, tan and beige can be very affordable. You need to do your research on how the manufacturer actually performs, but if you look for those attributes, you will find several very good options.

4. Calculate a budget.

Know what you are willing to spend and what makes sense in terms of return on investment. In other words, how much will buying replacement windows increase the value of your home, how much will you save on energy bills, how will new windows make you feel about your home, etc? Determine the number and stick to it. You will get some real heavy sales pitches designed to manipulate your emotions and twist your arm a little bit to get you to spend way more than you budgeted. Salespeople have been trained to push financing because it muddies the water about your actual investment. Two hundred dollars per month is easier to bite off on than $10,000. Don’t get me wrong, financing is not a bad thing when buying replacement windows, just be mindful of the total price.

Window shopping is a very worthwhile endeavor. You will learn much about how new windows can increase the value of your home while saving you money on your energy bills. You can get an idea of cost, options, and the process. If you stay in your house long enough, at some point the windows are most likely going to need to be replaced. It’s just a fact, most windows installed in new homes are not built to last. Home Renew’s windows have a warranty that lasts at least as long as you live in your home (whether it’s 5 years or 50 years). So either way, serious buyer or tire kicker, perhaps window shopping can be a project for you.

Caleb Gum
President, Home Renew

ps. If you’ve bought windows in the past and have some advice, I welcome your comments.