Remodeling Payback With Windows: Vinyl Windows a Top 10 Replacement Project

“Adding energy-efficient, low-maintenance vinyl windows to the home can have an average payback of 69.1% according to the Cost vs. Value Report,” says Gary Pember, vice president of marketing for Simonton Windows. “The same study shows that the average cost for such a replacement (involving 10 double-hung 3 x 5 vinyl windows with Low-E glass and simulated woodgrain trim) is $14,328.

 

“The good news is that, according to this study, the cost recouped at the time of selling the home with these new windows would be about $9,898. Even more importantly," Pember says, "homeowners investing in this type of remodeling project can save energy costs every single day once the new windows are installed."

 

Pember points out that, in the study, vinyl replacement windows had a higher return-on-investment than wood replacement windows. “Today’s homeowners are seeking top-quality vinyl windows due to their aesthetic value, low-maintenance features, and long-term energy-efficiency benefits,” says Pember.

According to the study, a vinyl replacement window project for a homeowner had a higher projected return-on-investment than several other popular home upgrade projects, including a bathroom remodel or addition, a major kitchen remodel, the addition of a master suite, or the replacement of the roof. A window replacement project can be especially valuable for homes built prior to 1978 due to the importance of replacing lead-based painted windows in older homes.

“Lead-safe awareness should be a priority concern for homeowners,” says Pember. “The potential dangers of lead dust poisoning from window frames in homes built prior to 1978 is frightening – especially for households with small children and pregnant women.” Simonton offers a dedicated educational website and an informative YouTube video that provide additional details on the company’s lead-safety awareness initiative.

 

Window Investment

 

One homeowner who has seen stunning results from replacing his home’s windows is Stu McDowell of Evergreen Park, Illinois.

One year after he replaced 11 old wood windows in his 1954 ranch-style home with ENERGY STAR® qualified Simonton windows, McDowell was approached by Northern Illinois Gas representatives who wanted to inspect his gas meter for possible faultiness. Because McDowell’s energy usage was so low compared to previous years, the gas company was concerned that his meter was malfunctioning.

“There was nothing wrong with our meter,” says McDowell. “It was our window investment paying off. We requested triple-pane glass, Krypton gas filler, and the Simonton Super Spacer® System in the glass package to maximize the efficiency of the windows. So, at a time when gas prices are soaring all over the country, our bills are like something out of yesteryear!”

 

Contractor Recommendation

 

Another homeowner, Mark Clement, in Ambler, Pennsylvania, found similarly impressive results when replacing the windows in his 100+ year old home.

“I’m a professional contractor, so I knew to look for quality-built windows when we decided it was time to replace our old mangled windows,” says Clement, co-host of MyFixItUpLife radio show and website. “For my money, Simonton is the best brand available in the marketplace. Their multi-chambered construction and fusion-welded corners truly help reduce air and water infiltration into the home.

“As soon as we installed the Simonton windows, we noticed a reduction in our heating and cooling bills, plus our home was definitely more comfortable to live in year-round. I advise all of my customers that replacing older windows with top-quality vinyl windows is definitely a project that has both immediate and long-term benefits.”

Simonton Windows produces ENERGY STAR qualified replacement and new construction windows and doors, including a line of impact-resistant products. Founded in 1946, Simonton’s hallmark has been to deliver the industry’s shortest, most dependable lead times.

Source Information: www.remodeling.hw.net/2011/costvsvalue/national.aspx © 2011 Hanley Wood, LLC. Complete data from the Remodeling 2011–12 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded free at www.costvsvalue.com.