Windows are one of your home's first defenses against the outside elements–wind, water, animals, etc. As such, it is essential that you have good windows, which work to protect your home and not work against you. New windows, which are specifically designed to be energy-efficient, can work to better protect your home than old windows.
If you’ve priced new windows, you might be a little sticker shocked at the price tag that accompanies new windows. Why do new windows have to cost so much? Read on to learn why new windows come with such a high price tag and see how the benefits of new windows outweigh the cost of new windows.
Replacement Windows
Replacement windows are exactly what they sound like, they are new windows that go into an existing hole to upgrade your current home, without having to cut new holes in walls. There are many reasons why one might consider replacement windows, instead of repairing old windows, including increased insulation, energy efficiency, reduced noise pollution, and an updated appearance.
Why do Windows Cost so Much to Replace?
The high cost of new windows comes down to the fact that windows are custom-made to size, and can be labor-intensive to install. Every single window that has ever been made, and ever will be made is custom-made, there is no such thing as a “standard size”. While it may appear that there are “standard sizes”, styles, colors, orientations, etc. are all different, and can all affect the price of the window.
Factors that Affect the Price
When it comes to figuring out the price of new replacement windows, there are a few different factors that come into play. The size will play a huge factor in the price, as larger windows require more material, which in turn results in a higher price. That fact shouldn’t come as a surprise, as that is generally how it comes with most things.
Not only will more material come with a higher price tag, but also the type of material that is used can and will have an impact on the price as well. The most common materials used in new replacement windows are wood and vinyl. When it comes to comparing prices of wood and vinyl windows, wood is significantly more expensive, but it typically has a longer lifespan than vinyl windows. Due to its longevity, it can be argued that over time, wood windows are more affordable than vinyl windows. Vinyl windows are a more affordable, budget-friendly window replacement option, that will last you a long time.
Another fact that can have an impact on the price of the window is the style of the window–slider, single-hung, picture, casement, etc. Due to the style and materials required to manufacture the different styles of windows can have an effect on the prices.
All windows come with a clear, double-pane unit, which is factored into the price If you want to upgrade to a triple-Payne window or change from clear glass to an obscure glass, it will impact the price in an upward direction. Any customization you make to a window will have an impact on the price.
How to Save Money on Replacement Windows
When looking for ways to save money on new replacement windows, don’t fall victim to buying cheaper windows just to save money. You can purchase quality windows without having to break the bank to do so. Keeping windows as basic as possible, will help to keep the price down. Customizations are part of the reason why windows get priced out of budget. Instead of purchasing a unique style with specialty glazing, opt for a style that is common with clear or simple obscure glass.
Don’t just go with the first bid that you receive, be sure that you get multiple bids from various different glass companies to ensure that you get a quality window at a reasonable price. Just because one bid might be significantly cheaper than another bid that you receive, doesn’t mean you will be getting a good window, be sure to ask about the brand of window was bid and do your own research. The cheapest bid might not be the best option for you.
If you are looking for window replacements, contact Gordon’s Glass to schedule a free in-home estimate. Not only will you be getting a bid for quality window replacements, but you’ll also realize how affordable new windows can be.
