Window replacement is a highly rewarding renovation project, due to the dramatic improvement the project brings to the function and appearance of the home, as well as the healthy return on investment.
While window replacement can be a daunting prospect, the outcome is substantial benefits in reduced energy costs, a more comfortable home environment, and the “wow factor” of the upgrade, that help make it one of the best investments you can choose from the home improvement menu.
A value-added aspect of replacement windows is the fact that there is a thriving window manufacturing industry in the United States, including right here in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Energy Efficient Window Replacement by Salt Lake Window Company
Heat gain and heat loss through conventional windows lead to 25 to 30 percent of energy costs in the home. But technological advances have vastly improved the energy-efficiency of windows, resulting in lower heating and cooling costs.
A window that is Energy Star-certified — as products from AMSCO Windows and Cascade Windows are — has met the government program’s standard of contributing significant energy savings, while delivering the features and performance that consumers need. In fact, if your windows don’t have an Energy Star sticker, it’s an indicator that the windows should probably be replaced.
Energy efficient performance can be further heightened with certain features. For example, both AMSCO Windows and Cascade Windows
offer several options for the glass in windows, including coatings with a high energy performance rating. At AMSCO, argon gas can be added to any of the glass configurations for increased energy efficiency.
You can also choose other special features that suit your preferences, such as added protection from UV rays, or glass that’s easier to clean.
Types of Windows – Composite, Vinyl, and Wood
Contemporary vinyl windows are fabricated with a high degree of craftsmanship and in a wide range of styles, allowing replacement windows to integrate visually and functionally with the architectural style of the home. When preservation of a certain aesthetic or period detail is desired, pocket windows are available that fit into the opening with minimal disturbance to the interior trim or casing — that’s the intention of the AMSCO pocket window in the Renaissance Signature Series.
Advanced vinyl technology has created vinyl windows that are durable even in Utah’s climate, remaining stable and resisting warping and discoloring from ultra-violet rays. AMSCO has developed improvements in the color process that allows rich, contemporary colors that were not available before for vinyl windows.
Windows made from composite wood products are stable, with the same — or better — structural and thermal properties as conventional wood, with superior moisture and decay resistance.
Wood has good insulating properties and is favored for its timeless aesthetic, though it’s the most expensive option. One approach to lower the cost is a wood veneer finish that retains the appeal of wood windows.
Real Estate Value
While your window replacement is a substantial expense, the return on investment is reportedly quite high — realtors estimate between more than half to up to 78 percent of the cost of the renovation is recouped when the home is sold.
The curb appeal of upgraded windows provides a significant incentive to the potential buyer when you’re ready to sell. Buyers are aware of the benefits of an energy-efficient window to monthly energy costs and that creates a preference for up-to-date windows in the market. That can mean a faster sale, at a higher price.