Energy saving Windows

Who doesn’t like nice new windows? Nice clear glass, easy to open and shut. New locking features. UV protection, easy cleaning. Also, you save money on your utility bill!

How much exactly?

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that you’ll save between $126 to $465 a year by replacing single-pane windows in your home.

Hmmm. What does that mean exactly?

Well I can tell you this, from personal experience at least. I have welcomed a number of sales people into my house who were hoping to offer me brand new windows. They gave me a rundown of the product and installation, warranties and guarantees. Some sales people had big cases of products, lights and demonstrations. It was quite an interesting experience. Almost all of them would finish by giving you a big estimated cost but then offering an assortment of discounts including a “sign here today“ deal.

Some estimates were higher than others but there is a general trend that you could find somewhere in the middle. Now I will tell you this, the companies that I had come out we’re not regular general contractors or handyman who would be purchasing windows from Lowe’s and crudely installing it themselves. These were larger, reputable and well-known companies. All of which have their windows custom-made to fit and installed with a team and trimmed to finish. All of these companies offered some type of warranty whether it be on the window itself, the labor or a combination of the two. Sometimes they would range from 20 years up to 50 years.

So what were the final numbers you ask? All in cost, material, labor, complete installation, warranties and whatever commission the sales person was getting which is looped into the cost, the windows came out to be around $850 apiece.

Now my home has about 21 windows, you do the math. If I was to overestimate my annual savings on the efficiency of these windows at $500 per year you would have to live in your home for 36 years to break even on the investment.

Guess how many people stay in their house for 36 years or more? Probably close to zero.

The point of this blog is to cover something in general terms that relates to all renovations and home improvements. The cost of enjoyment. Though I may not get a solid return on my investment, how much is it worth to me to have new windows in my house? How much would I appreciate the low UV rays, easy cleaning, beautiful view, you name it?

Therein lies your own personal choice and motivations for this and any other home improvement decisions. You mu$t love it to do it. Not all improvements are an ROI.