Replacement Windows Catching on with Homeowners
If you’re looking into green home renovations in Atlanta, replacing your windows is an excellent place to start.
In a list of home improvements based on their cost vs. the overall increased home value after one year, the National Association of Realtors estimates that replacement windows increase a home’s value by approximately 97% (against the original cost of the windows).
Beyond this financial benefit, utility companies often give rebates for new, energy-efficient windows, which can amount to hundreds of dollars at the year’s end. And the more energy-efficient your windows are, the less you’ll be spending on heating and cooling. Leaky, poorly sealed windows lose heat in winter and cool air in summer, which translates to a tremendous loss in energy and money. After replacing old, single-pane windows with properly sealed double pane products, you’re more than likely to see a difference in heating and cooling costs almost immediately.
Besides the ability to save a few bucks, replacement windows are also safer for everyone in your home. That’s because older windows often contain some dangerous materials like lead paint. Once it begins to chip and flake off, it becomes a health hazard to children, adults and pets. Did you know that exposure to lead can have negative effects on your nervous, reproductive and cardiovascular systems?
Another danger posed by old windows is in the physical sense. Cracked and broken windows are also hazardous, particularly in winter when cold weather makes them more brittle. Drafts from leaky old windows are another potential risk, increasing the likelihood of illnesses especially for children and the elderly.
Finally, if the financial savings, energy savings, and health benefits of new windows aren’t enough incentive, consider the aesthetic value of new windows. New, freshly painted and sleek windows will automatically make your home more attractive inside and out.
Need help with updating your Atlanta home with a much needed renovation? Contact Renewal Design-Build to find out how we can help!