Have you ever felt that cold winter breeze indoors even when all the windows are closed? Unfortunately, that’s usually a good sign that you have drafty, old windows that need replacement. Drafty windows might seem like a minor inconvenience but they will affect comfort, energy bills, and your home’s overall value, so this shouldn’t be ignored. If your energy bills have gone up recently, old and outdated windows may be the cause. The good news is that upgrading your windows is a great investment in your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and value.

Just Wasting Energy

The biggest indicator of drafty windows is an increase in energy costs. This happens because your heating and cooling system in the home will have to work harder just to maintain the same comfortable temperature which in the end is wasting so much precious energy. According to EnergyStar.gov windows account for about 45% of heat loss and gain. The loss of energy is what causes the loss of comfort when the outdoor temperatures are more extreme. On top of that, moisture infiltration from snow and rain through the old windows can lead to mold, wood rot, and damage to the surrounding walls and floors. It may not seem like an emergency fix is needed, but there are costs to waiting too long. Over time, the cumulative cost of your rising energy bills will increase while the property value of your home decreases. If you want to sell your home, having really old, drafty windows is not a great selling point. The investment upfront in getting new windows is going to save you money in the long run.

Windows Are An Important Investment

Windows are key to your home’s comfort, efficiency, and security, but they don’t last forever. When they develop cracks, warping, or broken seals it’s time to consider a replacement. Typically older windows are single-pane which is inefficient compared to the modern double and triple-pane designs on the market. These types of windows offer better insulation and last longer, especially in more extreme climates. On top of frequent drafts, you may also notice build between glass panes and more noise from outside these are even more indicators that you have poor insulation. Windows that stick or don’t lock securely will even compromise the security of your home. If any of these issues are sounding familiar don’t wait any longer, consider a replacement and an upgrade. 

The initial investment may seem daunting but within a few years, you will have already made up for it in lower energy costs. Energy-efficient windows pay for themselves over time so there’s no need to question whether this is a good investment or not. Your home will also receive a huge facelift and with customizable options you can upgrade your overall curb appeal. When it’s time to move, buyers will be impressed with the upgrades and will be more likely to buy your beautiful home, making your selling process run smoother. 

Its Time for a Replacement

Drafty windows seem like a minor annoyance when they really are a drain on your wallet, comfort, and home efficiency. Whether it’s the higher energy bills or potential long-term damage, the cost of aging, inefficient windows will add up fast when not taken care of. Replacing your windows with modern, energy-efficient options can transform your living space, save you money, enhance your home’s value, and reduce your environmental impact. 

We know window replacements and upgrades can be expensive projects. When we think about home improvement, it’s also not one of the first things that we think we need to improve. As overlooked as this investment is, it can bring many long-term benefits and savings, especially with the right team installing the best-quality windows. If your windows are outdated and no longer high-functioning it may be time to think about replacing them, because they might be causing even higher energy costs. But what’s the real secret to saving money on windows?

Cheaper isn’t always Better

When it comes to new windows cheaper is not always better, even though choosing the cheapest windows might be the most tempting. Cheap windows will present the same issues you were having before replacing them and will lead to some pretty costly consequences. Low-quality or outdated windows often aren’t sealed properly which will allow air to leak out and let in the cold or hot air in extreme seasons which will drive up energy costs.

In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. They also require more frequent repairs due to cheaper materials and quicker wear and tear. When it comes to time to sell your home low-quality windows will diminish your home’s overall value and make the home less desirable. Overall, opting for cheap instead of efficient, and high-quality is not the way to go when it comes to windows.

Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows

There are many benefits to choosing quality windows and a professional installation company. As previously mentioned, energy costs tend to be higher when windows aren’t properly sealed, installed, or outdated. Energy-efficient windows will significantly improve your heating and cooling costs. This is great for the Wisconsin weather because of our extreme temperatures in the summer and winter seasons. Better windows also provide improved comfortability to the home because they maintain the proper indoor temperature. On top of the comfort, when it comes time to sell these windows greatly increase the value of your home. On top of these benefits, new windows will upgrade the overall aesthetic of your home. You can choose the style that best suits you. Comfort and aesthetics, you really can’t go wrong with this quality home improvement decision. If you want a more long-lasting solution, it’s time to make an investment in energy efficiency.

The SECRET

Now the SECRET is that if you spend more upfront on higher quality windows and installation then you will save more money in the long run. The initial cost may be higher than cheaper options, but the long-term savings will far outweigh the upfront costs. By investing in new windows now you are investing in the future of your home. While there is an upfront cost, in the long term the savings will make it all worth it. When you choose energy-efficient windows and hire the most experienced team to install them you are sure to enjoy a more comfortable, quieter, and energy-efficient home for years to come. 

Are your current windows just not doing the job anymore? Do your energy costs just keep going up? Luckily there’s a solution for energy-efficient windows. If you’ve heard that energy-efficient windows are the way to go you may be wondering what exactly is so different about them and why they are such a great solution for your home. Well, before diving into how they are energy efficient it’s important to understand why it matters and how they can lower your energy bills.

Why Energy-Efficiency Matters

Energy-efficient windows are a large contributor to lowering energy bills and improving the overall comfort of your home. Windows are so much more than a way to let in natural light or enjoy the outside view. They are a gateway between your home and the outside world and play a key role in controlling your indoor temperature and energy consumption. If you are looking to reduce heating and cooling costs, minimize drafts, and increase the value of your home it is time to look into energy-efficient window options and move forward on window replacement. 

There are many different key elements that come into play that make windows energy efficient. Some are designed to prevent heat loss in colder climates and others to stop unwanted heat gain in hotter climates. In Wisconsin, it’s important to find the best of both worlds to handle both extreme seasons and have windows that lower costs all year round. 

Key Elements of Energy-Efficient Windows

1. Frame: The first element is the frame and what material it is made out of. Having a quality frame will positively influence thermal performance and contribute to energy efficiency. There are many materials to consider including vinyl, wood, aluminum, and insulated frames which are a high-quality solution for energy conservation. The differences in materials will have an impact on the window’s ability to retain energy, how they look both inside and out as well as affect curb appeal and maintenance. 
2. Glass Type: The next key element is the glass type. Windows can lose energy through the glass but it can be engineered to prevent that loss. A single-pane window won’t do the job of offering insulation so by choosing double or triple-pane glass you can increase energy efficiency. Low-E (low emissivity) glass coating is the best way to maximize your efforts by adding an extra protective layer to your layered glass. The ultraviolet protection from using a Low-E coating will keep your interior and furniture from fading due to sun exposure. 
3. Gas Fills: Between the glass layers, there is usually a special gas that is odorless, colorless, and nontoxic. The gas is designed to offer better insulating performance than regular air. Argon or Krypton gas is used in these spaces as another measure to protect your home’s energy. 
4. Design & Sealing: The window’s design and finally how it is sealed are other elements in this process of becoming energy efficient that are important to consider. Having energy-efficient windows installed is useless if they aren’t installed properly. It’s important that the window has square openings, the surrounding area is properly insulated, and they can open and close properly. All of these elements together will contribute to energy efficiency on top of the actual elements of the windows themselves. All American Window & Door ensures a high-quality installation that will prevent air leaks and water infiltration.

Long-Term Benefits

There are many long-term benefits to upgrading the windows for your home. The lower energy bills will allow for long-term cost savings and effectiveness. They are an investment that will bring savings over time. These new windows will also improve indoor comfort and reduce your reliance on HVAC systems during the summer and winter seasons. Finally, new windows approve curb appeal and the overall value of your home. When/if it becomes time to sell your home, these new windows will increase your home’s overall functionality and value!

So, you’ve made the decision to buy new windows. You know you need new ones, but what’s the right window for your home? Buying new windows can be a stressful process. You want to pick the right type, style, and sizes and it can be hard to know what to get. It’s important to choose the right windows for your home that will fit your unique needs. If you are unsure, luckily you’ve come to the right place! We are here to help you choose the right windows and stay informed about what to look out for during this big purchase.

When is it time for new windows?

There are a few common signs that it’s time for new windows. The most obvious is based on how they look and how long it has been since they have been replaced. Old and outdated windows can bring down the overall aesthetic of your home and decrease functionality when it comes to conserving energy. Old windows aren’t insulated or energy-efficient enough to control the energy in your home and maintain comfortable temperatures. It’s important to monitor your windows and replace them when needed.

It is important to start by assessing your personal needs. When you are preparing to buy new windows you need to research what you are looking for and what features are important to you. Are you focused on energy efficiency, aesthetics, security, or all of the above? Once you assess your personal needs, then you can look into the types of windows needed for your home based on your preferences. Prior to installation and the shopping process, it’s helpful to have an idea of what you’re looking for.

The Benefits of New Windows

New windows have many benefits that will improve your overall quality of life within your home. The first is the aesthetic and look that comes with replacing your old windows. New windows look great and can change the overall appearance of the outside of your home. When it comes time to sell your home, windows add a lot of value and can change the overall appearance making the selling process easier. Not to mention it’s one less thing that a new buyer will have to worry about! New windows also have a tendency to lower energy costs by controlling and maintaining the temperature in your home. The benefits are truly worth the time it takes to buy and replace windows!

Cost and installation are a very big part of the window replacement process. It’s important to decide how you would like to install these windows. Although doing it yourself may seem like a good idea and be cost-efficient, not having a warranty or a team that can help might end up costing in the long run. Make sure to choose new windows from a trusted supplier that provides quality windows and a professional team for installation services. This will make a huge difference in the entire buying process.

Are you looking to improve the overall look and feel of your home? Can you remember the last time you replaced your windows? There are many common misconceptions surrounding this common home improvement project, but it’s truly an important practice. Outdated windows can have a negative impact on the function and aesthetic of your home. If they aren’t replaced when necessary this can cause many other issues especially when it comes to climate control and energy conservation.

Window Replacement Myths

1. Window Replacement Is Too Expensive: Perhaps the biggest misconception around window replacement is that is it too expensive. While there is an upfront cost to this process, replacing windows is an investment that will save you money in the long run. If you decide to replace your old windows with a more energy-efficient option these features will save you money in energy costs by providing better insulation to your home. On top of that, new windows will increase the value of your home which will benefit you when you decide to move. 
2. Windows Don’t Need To Be Replaced Unless They’re Broken: Even though your windows aren’t visibly broken, they are still probably not functioning at their best. Older windows can have bad seals that let in drafts and lead to high energy bills. Exposure to the elements is usually what causes the wear and tear on window frames leading to a decrease in curb appeal. By regularly inspecting your windows and replacing them when needed you can maintain overall energy efficiency and prevent more costs in the long run. 
3. Energy-Efficient Windows Aren’t Worth the Investment: Energy-Efficient windows tend to yield more upfront costs, but the long-term benefits are more than worth the initial investment. These windows make your home more comfortable and save you money on heating and cooling bills by regulating the temperature of your home. These windows are designed with features that will help reduce heat transfer, minimize drafts, and maintain a more comfortable indoor environment. 

What are the Facts?

There are many more myths surrounding the replacement of windows, mostly surrounded around the cost. However, it has been proved that the cost is ultimately worth it for the benefits gained from new windows. 

The facts are that new windows increase comfort, home value, and energy efficiency. Without window replacement, it can be very difficult to preserve energy and protect against extra costs. That is why it is very encouraged to replace windows when necessary. Besides the energy conservation, new windows look great and often significantly improve your home’s aesthetic and curb appeal.

Once you replace your windows, your energy bills will start to go down, especially during the winter and summer months. You will experience better comfort and be able to admire the new and improved look of the exterior of your home. There is seriously no way to go wrong with a window replacement project. 

Are old windows costing you comfort and money? Then it might be time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient option. Properly insulated windows provide many practical and financial benefits. Updating those old and drafty windows now will save you money on your energy bills for years to come. When it comes to breaking down energy bills, windows are often overlooked as the culprit for higher costs when, in reality, they are often one of the largest contributors to wasted energy!

Conserving Energy

Beyond conserving energy, energy-efficient windows provide many other benefits that are often overlooked. They are great at reducing noise pollution and are known to mute exterior noise. Having windows with low-e coatings can reduce sun damage to furniture, carpets, and even photos. On top of that, having updated and energy-efficient windows will add significant value to your home. When it comes time to sell, having new and well-insulated windows will increase the value and be more appealing to buyers on both the inside and outside of your home! 

New windows are also a great way to update the exterior design of your house. Old windows can bring down the entire look of your house and can be a real eye sore. Investing in new energy-efficient windows will not only improve your comfort inside but also improve the aesthetics of your home. You really can’t go wrong when it comes to replacing those old and outdated windows that have been there since your home was built. 

The Problem With Improper Insulation

How insulated your windows are will affect whether or not cold and hot air can affect the temperature of your home. The more extreme the weather is the more energy you have to utilize to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. However, if your windows work to combat the extreme temperatures outside, you can prevent the loss of the precious energy being used inside. Wisconsin is known for having both extreme cold and hot temperatures depending on the season, so it’s important to invest in windows and replace them when necessary. 

The U.S. Department of Energy states that windows are responsible for about 25% of your annual energy costs. This is due to the energy that is lost from insufficient insulation in your windows. When you replace your outdated single-pane windows with a more energy-efficient option you can save hundreds. Depending on the number of windows replaced your new windows will pay for themselves in just a few years, just from the savings in your decreased energy bills each month. This is going to benefit you and your family for years to come!

Not sure where to start? All American Window & Door has years of experience in helping homeowners lower their energy costs. We understand the importance of this project and how it impacts your home. When you choose to work with All American Window & Door Co. you can trust that we will install quality windows that are designed to help save you money on energy bills! 

Our team is perfectly qualified to install your new and improved energy-efficient windows. We strive to provide top-tier customer service because we understand how important this project is for your household. All American offers only the best products paired with excellent customer service. If your goal is to start saving money on your energy bills, then our goal is to get you there. We want nothing more than to bring comfort to you and your family!

Notice that your energy bills keep going up? New windows might be your best solution!

If you’re looking to save some money it might be time to ditch those old windows.It just so happens they might be what’s causing that bill to get out of hand.

Energy Conservation

Surprisingly, old windows that lack the proper insulation can be making a huge difference in your monthly energy expenses. Whether they let in too much heat in the summer or too much cold in the winter, they aren’t properly conserving your energy. 

When looking into a solution for energy conservation many people look over their old and outdated windows. Windows do a lot more than let in fresh air or sunlight into the home. If properly installed and insulated, they have the ability to reduce the loss of precious energy and keep your home at a comfortable temperature. 

Once you’ve determined that it might be time for some new windows in your home, you should take the time to research some more energy-efficient options. It’s important to make sure that your windows are energy efficient so you can save yourself a lot of money in the long run.

Energy Efficient Window Options

There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to this new investment.

• Double-pane Windows: Double-pane windows have two layers of glass which provides extra insulation from the layer of air between them. That barrier helps to keep the heat or cold air in or out of your home.
• Triple-pane Windows: Triple-pane windows have an extra layer of protection by adding another layer or air or insulating gas. This option is perfect for those extra hot or cold days or more extreme climates.
• Gas-filled Windows: These are a very similar option to the double-pane windows however, they include the use of gasses like argon or krypton which have a higher density than air.
• Low-emissivity windows: Unlike the multi-pane windows, Low-E windows have a special reflective coating on the gas that reflects the air back into the room. 

Once you’ve done your research it’s time to schedule an installation. Luckily, All American Window & Door Co. is here to help! All American Window & Door has years of experience and a team that is perfectly qualified to install your new and improved energy efficient windows.