When does it pay to replace old windows?

The McCuen’s have been in their Land O’ Lakes home for eight years and decided they’re tired of high energy bills.

“Every time my power bill comes, I just see all my money going out the window.  Literally, out the window,” Stella McCuen said.

So, they’re replacing their old, single pane windows with triple pane, energy efficient windows.

“I’m hoping to save a good 30 percent down off my power bill,” McCuen said.

Cost to Replace Windows

The price for window replace varies based on several factors, including the size of the window and design you choose, but the average cost for a 10 window job in the South Atlantic region, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2017 Cost vs. Value report is just under $15,000.

“Windows are the most expensive necessity home improvement you’re ever going to do in your home,” Mike Lopez with APEX Energy Solutions says.

APEX Energy Solutions is installing high-end, ultra-energy efficient windows for the McCuens, which they say pay off in energy savings and value to the home.

“This is the single pane, pretty standard builder grade that came out of the home itself,” Lopez demonstrated.  “If you look here you can actually touch your fingers together.”

Compare that to the new windows; one inch thick.

“You can see the insulate value there,” Lopez said.  “It’s three panes of glass and two chambers of argon gas.”

Other Benefits of Energy Efficient Windows

The windows not only keep the air conditioning in, but also keep noise out as well as harmful UV rays.

“Those are the rays that bleach your furniture and your carpet and your pictures, as well. Also keeping the infrared rays out. Those are the rays that are heating up the room,” Lopez said.

Both TECO and Duke Energy offer rebates for homeowners who replace their old windows with energy efficient windows.

You can check the energy efficiency of a window by looking at its Energy Star label.  It tells you whether a window performs well in your climate based on ratings from the National Fenestration Rating Council.

Other Options

Replacing your windows can save you money on your energy bill, but it can take years to recoup the thousands of dollars you invest to buy new windows.

Other approaches can also be effective.  Adding insulation and sealing air leaks are also good ways to save energy and cost less. 

New, energy efficient windows do add value to your home.  By some estimates, when you sell your home, you can recoup 70-80 percent of the cost of window replacement.

Be sure to look at all your options before making a decision that’s right for you.