When considering replacing your old windows with thermal replacement windows, most homeowners find themselves overwhelmed by the myriad of choices available to them. It is often difficult to tell exactly what some firms are ‘selling.’ So before you make a final choice, here are the basic facts you need to know about thermal replacement windows.
What exactly are thermal replacement windows?
Thermal replacement windows are generally defined as replacement windows that contain more than one sheet of glass between your home’s interior and the outdoors. In other words, we are talking about double-paned or triple-paned windows. The extra panes provide an insulating buffer zone within the window keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer thereby lowering your energy bills considerably. Because thermal windows are a relatively modern invention, they feature progressive materials and design generally eliminating the need for painting.
Many thermal replacement windows also feature low-e glass and argon gas. Low-e glass possesses a special coating that blocks parts of the light spectrum not visible to the naked eye. Although this does not change the appearance of the glass, it improves its insulating properties. Similarly, argon gas is often used to fill the spaces between the multiple panes of glass thereby increasing the window’s energy-efficiency without altering its appearance.
How energy-efficient are thermal replacement windows and are they a good investment?
Considering that window and door openings in your home’s structure account for about 40 percent of your energy costs, any major improvement you can make in the energy-efficiency of your windows and doors will translate directly to lower fuel costs. Thermal windows are generally twice to four-times more energy-efficient than older single pane windows. Given that this translates to approximately 20 to 30 percent savings on your winter heating bills, it is safe to say that your new thermal replacement windows will quickly pay for themselves.
Reduce Painting Costs by 50%: Remember too that lower utility bills are not the only return on a window replacement investment. As mentioned earlier, because thermal windows are a relatively modern invention, they feature progressive materials and design generally eliminating the need for painting. As windows are generally the most expensive part of any painting project, you can expect to lower your painting costs by up to 50 percent.
Save Cleaning Costs & Increase ReSale: Similarly, because thermal replacement windows are designed to be easy-to-clean, you can expect to save time and money when it comes to both interior and exterior cleaning. And besides all these savings, you will probably recoup most of the cost of your thermal window replacement when you decide to sell your house as modern replacement windows will definitely increase your home’s value on the market.
For all these reasons, thermal replacement windows are definitely a good investment. If you do not have the cash-on-hand to finance the project, it makes sense to consider borrowing the money given the immediate return on your investment. Homeowners can obtain loans wherein the interest costs are tax deductible, and the savings you enjoy will continue even after the loan has long since been paid off.
What is the best way to shop for thermal replacement windows?
Many homeowners start their search for thermal replacement windows at the local home center store. There are several problems with this approach. Most importantly, the windows for sale at the local home center are generally contractor grade and thus neither built to last long nor to function well. Also, a professional window installer will not work with these kinds of low-quality windows. That means that either you will have to do the installation yourself, or hire a handyman to do the work. Again, you get what you pay for. Unless you or your handyman are a qualified experienced window installer, you do not possess the technical knowledge and years of experience that are necessary to yield optimal results. There are many details that need to be executed correctly in order to reap the energy-savings you seek.
The best way to shop for thermal replacement windows is to find a reputable window firm who features trusted name brands and offers free consultation. Such a firm will have an experience and qualified installation team who will show up on time and come prepared to complete your window replacement project within a few days with little disruption to your interior spaces and household routines. Then, review their window offerings and come prepared to explain what you want to accomplish with your window replacement. If energy savings is paramount on your list, compare the NFRC (National Fenstration Rating Council) rating of the windows you find most attractive. Most major brands carry such a rating. To obtain a low score (good) the manufacturer must build the window carefully and incorporate all the latest energy-saving features.
Beware of window replacement firms who require ‘all decision-makers’ to be present. These firms are looking for a high-pressure one-time close with an inflated price. Remember that it is YOUR home and YOUR money. Take your time and find a firm that puts the customer first and has a track record of satisfied clients. Check their Yelp reviews, Angie’s List Reviews, and BBB rating.
Here at American Windows & Siding of VA, Inc., we enjoy helping people. If you have any questions about thermal replacement windows, vinyl windows, fiberglass windows, wood windows or any other window replacement questions … feel free to contact us anytime and we’ll do our best to answer all your questions!
