Do New Windows Add Value?

The simple answer is, a resounding “yes!” However, there’s definitely more that goes into that statement than just saying so. In this article, we’ll not only help you calculate just how much ROI you can expect with new windows but also the considerations you can make along the way to make sure you feel good about your purchase.

Renovation project factors

Renovation projects come in all shapes and sizes. Maybe your kitchen could stand with some new cabinets and a coat of paint vs. a full gut job. Or perhaps a new roof is in order vs. patching/replacing a few shingles. Point is, there are so many factors that go into making the decision to jump into a renovation.

There’s also the “why” factor. Are you doing it for your own enjoyment or is it to make your home more desirable on the real estate market? Let’s break those down for a moment… living in comfort shouldn’t be frowned upon, especially given the fact that almost 90% of our human lives are spent indoors! Plus, if your home is your biggest financial investment (as it often is for most homeowners) you should at least get the benefit of enjoying it to the fullest while you live there.

For those who are looking to renovate in order to boost the value of a potential listing, things like curb appeal jump to the top of the list of reasons why to do it in the first place. You only get one chance to make a first impression and a home with new, modern high-quality windows can certainly have that effect on potential homebuyers. And it doesn’t hurt if potential homebuyers want to open a window on a walk through and it does so very smoothly.

Window replacement ROI calculations

Return on your investment. For many, one of the biggest factors to determining whether or not replacing your windows is worth it is the “time-cost” quotient. How much time you plan on spending in your home AFTER putting new windows in can make a huge difference.

Different than making some cosmetic changes or upgrading your kitchen appliances, replacing windows is more the “long game.” Because your new windows will have modern energy efficiency built-in, it will take some time to see dividends in your energy bills. And because replacement projects typically involve multiple windows, the upfront costs may take time to work their way into the overall value of the home.

Did you know that on average, your investment in new windows could add significant dollars onto its market value, with a return of up to 80+% the original cost? That’s significant, especially when you consider the fact that an upgrade like a modest kitchen remodel comes in around the same level.

Plus, we mentioned earlier about saving money on your utility bills. How does up to 12% per year sound?

What are the best windows for resale value?

When researching the different types of windows on the market, you’re going to want to focus on energy-efficient windows that are Energy Star rated. Otherwise, you may find that the investment isn’t worth it as lower-grade windows just aren’t built to last or perform. And while respective windows may have a variety of options to choose from, the basic starting point is the type of frame materials used in their construction.

Vinyl windows are a great point of entry for just about any replacement project. The vinyl makes up the frame of the window, which is what holds the glass in place.

At WindowRama, we feature vinyl windows from United Window & Door. United products are manufactured using a multipoint welding system to deliver a well-balanced and solid frame for maximum insulation. Available with Low-E glass, these windows are built for years of enjoyment.

If a wood window is in order, while it will come at a higher price point than vinyl, it does offer you the ability to paint or stain it to match your decor. Plus it has a warmth that’s inherent in organic materials like wood that can truly enhance the way you experience your home.

Andersen 400 and 200 Series Windows are finely crafted to exacting standards. Available in thousands of sizes and styles, fine wood interiors are combined with high-performing and low-maintenance exteriors that stand the test of time.

Yet another category is made up of fiberglass or composite materials. These marvels of modern engineering blend cutting-edge technology and appealing design to create a truly unique (and powerful) window replacement solution.

The Andersen 100 Series, made with their exclusive Fibrex composite material, brings durability, sustainability, and energy efficiency to the next level.

For a more in depth look at the window buying process, including different types of windows and options, check out our Window Buying Guide.

What’s next?

No matter where you are in the process of deciding to move forward with a window replacement project, you should feel free to reach out to us.  Our goal is to help make the process easier, from start to finish.