Window replacement is a great way to make your home more energy efficient. New windows will keep the heat out during the summer and the cold out during the winter.
Aluminum windows are affordable and durable. They are also low maintenance and work well in Florida’s subtropical climate.
Fiberglass windows combine wood with polyvinyl chloride plastics or aluminum for a look similar to solid wood windows at an affordable cost. They are also insulating and durable.
Cost of Materials
Choosing the right window replacement materials for your home can significantly impact your project’s cost. Vinyl, fiberglass and wood frames all offer different levels of durability and energy efficiency. The type of sash and muntin bar can also affect a window’s energy-efficiency. For example, aluminum-frame windows are generally less efficient than vinyl ones.
Another important factor when it comes to window replacement is the cost of installation. The most budget-friendly installation method is insert installation, which involves fitting new windows into existing frames. Full frame installation is more expensive but offers better results.
Aside from the cost of the windows themselves, you’ll need to pay for labor, disposal fees and any other expenses incurred during the project. This may include interior touch-ups and any structural changes that need to be made for the new windows. These expenses can add up, especially if you’re replacing 25 or more windows. Luckily, many window manufacturers and installers offer financing options to make the cost more manageable.
Cost of Installation
Several factors affect the cost of installation. The frame material and style you choose affects the overall price, as do the glass and sash. Frame materials include aluminum, fiberglass and vinyl. Fiberglass frames are resistant to Florida humidity and have a longer life than aluminum. They are also a good choice for impact-resistant windows.
You will also pay for sashes, muntin bars and other features that impact energy efficiency. Double-pane and triple-pane glass can reduce energy bills and add a more spacious look to your home, but they will increase the cost of materials. Some glass options feature low-e coatings, argon gas fills and thermal spacers for increased energy efficiency.
Other cost-influencing factors include the complexity of the project and structural changes in your home. If your project involves removing and installing a window in an area that is hard to reach, it will take longer for your pro to work and might cost more.
Energy Efficiency
Many homeowners want to improve their home’s aesthetics and lower their energy costs with new replacement windows. The style, size, and materials you choose for your windows affect the cost of installation. However, skimping on energy efficiency can cost you more in the long run as higher-efficiency window options provide a greater return on investment by decreasing your monthly electricity bill.
Frame materials also impact the cost of your windows. Aluminum frames are inexpensive but don’t offer great insulation, while fiberglass and vinyl frames are more durable and affordable but offer superior energy efficiency. Choosing additional energy-saving features such as low-e coatings and argon gas filling can also add to your upfront costs.
Installing your windows using an insert method, or retrofitting them into existing frames, can help keep installation costs low. However, this method can be more expensive than full-frame installation because you may need to replace the window sashes and muntin bars. Additionally, it’s best to replace several windows at once to save on labor costs.
Maintenance
Windows are one of the most affordable home improvement projects, and they offer a high return on investment for homeowners. These upgrades can reduce monthly energy costs and increase home value. They also add to curb appeal. However, it is important to choose the right window for your home and understand that the cost of installation can impact overall costs.
Window type and style are the main factors that affect replacement costs. Single-hung windows are the most affordable, but double-hung windows are more expensive because they include two sashes that open and close. The cost of the glass can also vary, and you may want to consider energy efficiency options like low-E coatings or argon gas fills.
It is usually best to replace multiple windows at the same time to save money on installation fees. Also, it is a good idea to avoid do-it-yourself window installation, as it can lead to problems like air leaks and moisture infiltration.