Are windows a good investment?
Replacing your windows is among the best investments you can make for your home. Not only will it appeal more to buyers if you decide to sell, but your home will be more energy-efficient. You’ll save money on your energy bills and increase the value of your home. Whether you’re planning on selling and want to get more for your home, or want to reduce your monthly energy bills, energy efficient windows replacements are always a smart investment to make!
Why should I replace my windows?
Your home’s windows play a very important role in your life. New windows provide natural lighting, increase air flow, and make your house look great from the inside out. Replacing your windows are important for keeping your home comfortable and energy efficient! The top benefits you’ll enjoy when replacing your windows includes:
● Reduced energy bills
● Increased home value
● Boosted energy efficiency
● Enhanced comfort
● Boosted curb appeal
● More peace and quiet
What are the signs that I need to replace my windows?
There are many signs that indicate that your windows need to be repealed, however the most common reasons include:
● Faulty window operation
● Recurring presence of cold drafts
● Excessive window condensation
● Audible outside noise
● Decay & water damage
● Visually unappealing
● High energy bills
Can I install new windows myself?
It may seem straightforward, but the process for window installation is very detailed and meticulous. The windows need to go in square and level., and any mismeasurement or misstep could render your new windows useless. You could also damage your home. Working with a professional window installation company is the smartest thing you can do.
How should I prepare my home for replacement windows?
There are numerous things you can do to prepare your home for the installation team. You’ll need to remove blinds and curtains, move furniture and outdoor decor away from the windows, and put away valuables that could accidentally get damaged in the process. Our installation team will bring our own drop clothes and tarps to help keep the construction debris to a minimum.
What is the difference between replacement windows and new construction windows?
Replacement windows are made to replace old windows and are designed to be installed in the existing window frame from the inside of the home. This avoids the removal of any exterior elements and allows for a quick, easy, and less invasive installation. New construction windows are primarily made for newly built homes or other new construction such as a home addition. They require breaking down the stucco and creating a new opening. This option is also for homeowners that want a different size/shaped window on their current window opening, or solid wall.
Will the replacement windows be installed from the inside or the outside?
In most cases, replacement windows are installed from the outside. However, in some circumstances though, it may be necessary to install replacement windows from the inside. On the day of installation, your window installer will assess the specific situation of your home and explain the process that will best suit your space.
Will replacement windows really help me save on my energy bills?
In short, yes! Homeowners lose roughly 30% of the money they spend to heat and cool their homes on energy loss. Paid air escapes through your inefficient windows, making your energy bills go up! Older style window frames and non-insulated glass allow thermal energy to easily pass between your glass panes.
Why do new windows now have two panes of glass?
Windows need more than one pane of glass to provide your home with superior insulation benefits. They help keep more heat inside the home during the winter and cool air during summer. Two panes provide a thermal barrier that prevents energy leakage.
What’s the difference between bay windows and bow windows?
Bay windows feature 3 (and only 3) window openings typically mulled at 25 to 45-degree angles. At its core structure bay windows consist of a picture window with smaller windows on the side.
Bow windows, on the other hand, consist of 4 or more windows generally set at 10-degree angles. The multi-window design is perfect for homeowners that want more sunlight and better views of their outer space!
Do I need to replace all of the windows in my home at the same time?
If you wish to realize the maximum energy savings in your home, then yes! You should replace all of your windows at the same time. Although not vital, it’s the smartest way to make the most out of your investment. If you decide not to replace all of your windows at the same time, we recommend replacing them in sections, such as one side of the home at a time or one level at a time for a two-story home.
What is the “inert gas” placed between the glass panes of my window?
Inert gas such as argon serves as a highly effective barrier to prevent the transfer of thermal energy through conduction. It helps better insulate your home, making your home more comfortable, and reducing your energy bills.
What is the difference between single-hung and double-hung windows?
A single hung window is fixed at the top and only the bottom sash opens. For a double-hung window, both the top sash and bottom sash open.
What does Low-E stand for?
Low-E stands for “Low Emittance”. “Emittance” is the energy that gets radiated by the surface of a body. Low-E is a type of glass surface that emits or radiates low energy, thus making it energy efficient. At SCCCI, we’re proud to say that all of our windows are Low-E and energy efficient!
What does U-Value mean?
The U-Value of a window refers to the rate of heat transfer. The lower the U-Value, the better! In order for a window to be eligible for energy-efficiency tax credits, the U-Value must be 0.30 or less.