If you want to increase your home value, consider replacing the windows throughout your property.
Buying and owning a house is often the biggest investment a person will make in their lifetime. So, it’s only natural to want your home improvement projects to improve your home value. As a property owner, you likely know that certain upgrades may potentially increase your resale value should you ever decide you want to sell your house.
But which projects are worth their return on investment? What sort of ROI (Return On Investment) might you expect? What about windows?
Have you ever wondered, “Do windows add value to your home?” There are a lot of things homeowners can do to increase their property’s value, and one of the best updates to increase home value is replacing your windows.
Windows play a crucial role in any building’s structure, and the home is no different. Your windows fill a house with warmth, light, and beauty. A window helps us feel less confined, even in a smaller-sized room. Windows are like small (or large) portals to the outside world that allow air, sound, light, and beauty to pass through when open and functional.
However, when windows are not functional, they can do a lot to take away from the beauty and feeling of your house. If you live in a house long enough, at some point, your current windows will come to the end of their lifespan, and you will have to replace them. Sure, it might not be the most fun or exciting home improvement project, but the significant benefits you’re sure to see are there.
Continue scrolling below to learn how replacing your windows is one of the best updates to increase home value.
4 signs it’s time to replace your windows
Even with normal wear and tear and thoughtful care and maintenance, at some point, windows have to be replaced. As your home ages, you may wonder when it’s time to replace your windows. On average, windows have a lifespan of 15 to 30 years, while most residential properties tend to last about 20 years. However, some windows last 40 or more years, depending on the materials used to make and install them.
Of course, many homeowners choose to replace their windows simply because they want to achieve a different look and home aesthetic, or perhaps they want to improve their home’s energy efficiency.
Generally speaking, windows nearing the end of their life expectancy tend to show obvious signs that the time to replace them is inching closer. Here are four signs to look out for:
- Condensation between glass panes — It’s not uncommon to see condensation buildup on the inside or outside of your windows, but when condensation appears between the panes of glass in your window, you’re likely looking at replacement.
- Loss of function — If your windows no longer function (i.e., will not open, get jammed, do not slide smoothly, etc.), it’s probably time to replace them.
- Significantly damaged and decayed — The unfortunate truth of owning a home is that, over time, window jambs and frames wear down, deteriorate, and rot. In some cases, homeowners get the damage repaired. However, if there’s air or water leakage or the window is in poor condition, you’ll likely have to replace it.
- Excessive noise — Similar to windows that allow cold or warm air inside, a window needs replacing when it is not effectively blocking out noise.
Do windows add value to your home?
If you ever wondered, “Do windows add value to your home?” we have the answer.
While replacing the windows throughout your house feels like a large investment, it could pay off by adding value to your property. According to the 2023 Cost vs Value report by the Remodeling website, replacing windows adds an average of nearly $14,000 to the value of your home, recouping about 69% of the costs of the project — on the higher end of recoup percentages!
In addition to a decent ROI, replacing your windows comes with a handful of other perks. Here are five additional advantages of replacing the windows throughout your home:
- Improved curb appeal — Windows are one of the most prominent components on a property. This means outdated and deteriorating windows will quickly turn your house into an eyesore. If you want to improve the curb appeal of your home, installing new windows throughout your home gives you the major boost in curb appeal you want.
This is especially true if you’re hoping to sell your property soon. First impressions are a big deal in the real estate world, and something as silly as old, broken windows might scare away potential buyers from even looking inside your house. - Increase energy efficiency — According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), nearly 30% of your property’s energy use is directly related to the heat loss and gain from your windows. Thankfully, modern window technology has drastically improved today’s windows, meaning new windows will help significantly cut down on energy losses, especially if your current windows are outdated.
As you look for new windows from a trusted window supplier and installer, look for labels that say “Energy Star” to help you decipher which models are more energy efficient. - Less outside noise — Your home is your haven, and when your windows aren’t doing an adequate job of filtering out outside noises, it’s time to take back your peace by installing new, high-quality windows.
Today’s windows block out much of the noise before it even reaches your ears. You may even spring for “soundproof” windows built to reduce noise pollution seeping into your space. If you live by a noisy freeway or a loud city or simply want to block out the sound of kids yelling and dogs barking, this is a luxury you’ll be excited about. - Fewer inspection problems — If you’re looking to sell your house, chances are you’ll have to endure a home inspection before the sale of your property closes. Broken and otherwise damaged windows are common issues found during inspections. Multiple issues on inspection reports can slow down the sales process and even cause the buyers to walk.
Potential buyers might also push you to install new windows before selling your house. Instead of replacing your windows under duress in the midst of a sale, take control of the situation by installing new windows before you list your house. This way, you get to sit in the driver’s seat and have more say in something you’d probably have to do anyway. - Better security — Windows that do not function properly are a safety hazard to you and your loved ones. Poorly functioning windows can allow criminals to easily access the inside of your house, making theft and harm much more possible.
Avoid this scary scenario with windows that feature functioning locks, secure frames, and stronger glass panels that will keep your home more secure and deter home invaders.
Increase your home value with Mountain States Windows & Siding
So, do windows add value to your house? Yes, and the team at Mountain States Windows & Siding is here to help you increase your home value with new windows.
Old windows are outdated, less efficient and effective, and cost a lot to maintain. If you want to improve and upgrade the look and functionality of your house, our talented crew can help you with the best updates to increase home value. Whether you are hoping to update or upgrade your current home’s windows or are building a new house from the ground up and are selecting its original windows, Mountain States Windows & Siding is here for you.
Our professional team is dedicated to our outstanding reputation and is proud to be known as a hassle-free and trustworthy home improvement company in Northern Utah. We work hard to give our customers more than quality windows, siding, and kitchen or bathroom renovations (yes, we do that, too!) — we are also dedicated to giving our clients the best customer service available.
We understand how important professional and transparent service is, which is why we are always upfront about accompanying costs and our processes all along the way. We also know how important the budget is, so we are determined to stay within yours. At Mountain States, we will only ever provide quality products, materials, and services that are sure to improve the function, look, and value of your house.
We know that property owners want an experienced, highly qualified professional to take on the job, and we are that type of company. Anyone who has hired the Mountain States team in the past can attest that we always stand behind our work and products. When you opt for Mountain States Windows & Siding, you can rest easy knowing you are receiving honest, premium, and friendly service with a smile.
We serve commercial and residential properties all across the Wasatch Front and beyond, so if you live in Salt Lake City, Alpine, West Jordan, Payson, Park City, or a nearby city, contact the Mountain States Windows & Siding team today!
