One of the questions many people ask is whether they should replace the older windows in their homes. Over time, things wear out or fall into disrepair. Windows are no exception. They often last for decades before they need to be updated, but there always comes a time when purchasing replacement windows may be your best option.
Do Your Homework
Before you buy new windows, take a little time to consider what circumstances would make that a good decision for you. For example, are your current windows drafty and inefficient? Do you want to upgrade your windows in order to reduce your energy costs? That sounds like a great idea, but you need to run the numbers to be sure it works out in your favor.
Contact a reputable window and glass company in your area to get a quote. They should come out to your home to do a walk-through assessment of your windows. A consultation usually involves taking measurements and educating you about your options. Once you have established what replacement windows would be best, you’ll receive a quote.
Ask the sales representative about how much new windows will save you in monthly utility costs. (It will likely be in the 10 to 20 percent range). Use common sense and a realistic savings estimate to calculate how much replacement windows will save you each month. From there, calculate how long will it take you to recover the cost of the windows. Do you plan on staying in the home that long? If not, then you will never recover your costs and it may not be worth it to buy new windows.
When to Buy Anyway
If your existing windows are broken or in unusable condition, you’ll likely need to replace them anyway. In these situations, a breakeven calculation and utility savings don’t matter, because you just need to fix the problem. It becomes a matter of safety and home security. But you should still take your time to do your research, consult with a professional, and choose quality windows that are energy efficient, durable, and a good value.
Should You Invest in Replacement Windows Before You Sell?
Homeowners sometimes ask if they should replace the windows to make the home more attractive to potential buyers. But is this really a good idea? In most cases, the cost of replacement windows is high enough that you’ll never be able to recover the money that you spend on them. The new windows certainly will appeal to buyers and you may sell the house faster, but it probably is not a good financial decision. Unless your windows are shattered or compromised, there is no need to replace them before selling.
Still have questions? Call our professional agents at DUFFY Realty for a friendly conversation about your needs. We’re known throughout the Atlanta market as a customer focused agency. Call now at (678) 318-1700.
