Homeowners can be both excited and nervous when going through a home renovation or new build. It is not always easy to know where money should be invested and what will give homeowners the most significant return on investment (ROI). But did you know windows and doors can not only help aesthetically improve your home but can save you money in the long run? Here’s a checklist of things to ask yourself when evaluating windows and doors for a remodel or new construction.
Related: HOA Rules to Know Before Buying Replacement Windows
Remodel: Do you notice a spike in your energy bill during a specific season?
An energy bill increase may be a sign that it is time to consider upgrading a home’s doors and windows. When considering new windows, take time to review previous energy bills. If a homeowner notices a spike in his/her bill during warmer or colder months, he/she may want to consider upgrading his/her door or window types. From insulating to laminated glass, these types of features can help lower energy bills. Also, adding energy efficient options can also improve a home’s energy efficiency.
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Remodel: Can you feel, or even hear, air flowing around your windows?
Have you ever walked by your window or door and heard the wind howling? Or maybe during the hottest part of the day, you can feel the temperature rise as you approach your windows? Other than evaluating your energy bill, you can also determine if a window or door upgrade might be needed by looking for these subtle hints. For less than $20, homeowners can buy an infrared thermometer on Amazon. This fun gadget can detect the temperature near your windows and doors versus the rest of your home. If there is a significant discrepancy, then it may be time to reach out to a certified door and window dealer.
Remodel: Does your home function the way you want it to, or are their parts of the exterior you wish were more accessible?
Do you have to walk through your living room to get to the patio to grill? Or maybe you wish you had more ventilation in your kitchen for those days you bake up a storm. Sometimes considering new ways to use your existing window and door space can make your day-to-day living more comfortable. Instead of walking through the living room to exit to the patio, you could add a French door between the kitchen and living space. Or maybe you replace a single hung window over the sink with a casement window that swings open like a door and can easily open with a crank.
New construction + Remodel: Would you be interested in giving both your interior and exterior an update at the same time?
HGTV’s show, Hidden Potential, is an ideal way to get inspired. The show’s host, Jasmine Roth, remodels homes in planned neighborhoods. This show, like others, is an opportunity for homeowners to see how making updates to windows and doors can make their home stand out from their neighbors’. Also, in new construction, homeowners sometimes have opportunities to upgrade their windows and doors. Some of these upgrades can not only help save homeowners on their bills (like impact resistant products), but they can also create a chance to have an aesthetically unique home in a planned neighborhood. By even selecting a frame color other than white, (think bronze) homeowners can give their home a unique look.
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New construction + Remodel: Have you ever wanted more natural light in your home?
For new construction and remodels, homeowners have an opportunity to think about areas of their home where they may want more, or even less, sunlight. Then they can work with their builder or contractor to see what options are available. Sometimes, a window can be added to a closet to allow more light and ventilation, or by adding French door sidelights, more light can fill a room.
There are numerous benefits to having new windows and doors in your home. For remodel projects, it is important to know if you have any HOA rules you need to abide by before selecting products. For new construction, working closely with your builder to understand what options you have and upgrades are available can allow you to create an ideal, unique home. No matter what, having new windows and doors can protect your family and home while helping you pocket a little extra cash by lowering your energy bills. Builders and contractors have expertise when it comes to windows and doors, so do not feel like you have to have all the answers. The goal as a homeowner is to know what you need and want, then have an expert help you execute your plan.
