Unless you're living in a newly constructed custom home, you're likely living with windows you're not completely satisfied with. After all, window technology has seen tremendous advancements in the last few decades. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, for the past 40 years, Lawrence Berkeley National Lab (LBNL) has helped American consumers save money in energy costs by pioneering new energy-efficient windows. 

Modern windows offer more to homeowners now than ever before, and window replacements are gaining in popularity. According to the Home Improvement Research Institute, the main two reasons for undertaking a win­dow replace­ment project are general home main­te­nance and potential energy savings. Let's take a closer look at the factors that motivate homeowners to replace their windows.

Home Modernization

If your home was built more than a decade or two ago, your windows are likely showing signs of age. Some of these signs include peeling paint, general wear and tear, and poor functionality. These issues may be fixable with a little bit of home maintenance work. However, some features of older windows can't be changed. For example, if you're unsatisfied with the way your windows look, the material the frames are made of, or their inability to meet modern insulation standards, your only option is to replace them. 

Modern windows come with advanced features that solve all of these problems. They include insulated panes, sashes, and frames to keep your home climate-controlled. Additionally, modern frame materials take up less space, allowing your windows to let in more light without taking up more wall space. Simply replacing your home's windows can make your home feel and function more like a newly constructed property.

Energy Efficiency

Even if your home's windows were top-of-the-line products when they were installed, they may not meet today's standards of energy efficiency. Older windows, especially those with obvious frame damage, can cause noticeable drafts. As unconditioned air enters your home, your heating and cooling systems need to work harder to compensate for the temperature change. 

A window replacement project can make a significant difference to your home's energy efficiency by keeping conditioned air inside where it belongs. Not only can new windows reduce your energy bills, but they can also reduce your carbon footprint. If energy efficiency is a top priority for your family, then make sure to discuss it with your window installer. They can guide you toward windows with the highest possible energy efficiency ratings.

Home Security

There are many ways to improve your home's overall security, but it's all too easy to neglect your windows during a security improvement project. Like doors, windows can function as access points to your home, and old or poorly maintained windows can leave your property especially vulnerable. If you have serious concerns about your home's security, then modern windows can provide you with peace of mind.

Ask your window installer about impact-resistant windows and modern window locks. At Eicher's Pro Vinyl, we prioritize your security with recessed pick-resistant locks. If that's not enough comfort, note that with the exception of essential egress windows, you may be able to replace some of your windows with non-openable picture windows. While these windows can't let fresh air in, you can rest assured that they'll keep danger out. No matter the style of windows you choose, installing modern windows is an important step in any home security improvement project.

Sound Dampening

If you live on a busy street, then you know the impact that outside sounds can have on your peace inside your home. Just as older windows allow outdoor air into your home, they also allow outdoor sounds to disrupt your home's atmosphere. If you find yourself consistently distracted by the outside world, then you may benefit from replacing some or all of your home's windows.

Although most of the insulative properties of modern windows are primarily designed to keep conditioned air inside your home, they also help to block sound transference. Your new windows might just help you sleep more soundly and add another layer of comfortable distance between your family and your neighbors. If sound dampening is on your mind, then make sure you work with a highly experienced window installer. The quality of the installation can impact air and sound transference, so this simply isn't a project most homeowners feel comfortable taking on themselves.

Window Utility

Even with diligent maintenance, older windows with wood or aluminum frames can lose utility over time. Dents, dings, and warping can make it difficult to open and close windows that once functioned smoothly. Additionally, older windows only came in a handful of styles and offered limited functionality to homeowners. If you want to get more out of your windows, then replacing them can change the way you interact with them for the better.

While letting light and air inside was sufficient functionality in past decades, modern homeowners see serious benefits from windows that come with enhanced utility features. Consider upgrading to double-hung windows that also allow both sashes to tilt inside for easy cleaning. If you choose modern vinyl window frames, then you can also benefit from reduced maintenance requirements and consistently smooth and quiet window operation. No matter which features you choose to prioritize during your window replacement project, you'll always get windows that open and close easily, lock securely, and keep your home comfortable throughout the year.

Home Resale Value

If you're planning on selling your home in the near future, then improving your property's resale value is likely on your mind. Many new homebuyers consider window replacement projects to be well outside of their comfort zone. According to Modernize, replacing your windows can add thousands of dollars to your home's market value. Whether your real estate agent suggested replacing the windows before selling or you just want to outshine the other homes for sale in your area, you can't go wrong with a window replacement project.

If you do choose to replace your windows with the goal of selling your home in the near future, then it would be wise to choose the most popular window styles on the market today. Make sure to ask your window installer about the products they install the most and what homeowners in your area tend to prioritize. With this information guiding your purchase, you'll be able to attract more buyers and likely increase your home's value. 

Whether you're planning on staying in your home or selling it in the near future, there are countless reasons to take on a window replacement project. Modern windows can help you improve your home's functionality, energy efficiency, security, and ambiance. Working with a competent team of professional window installers is an important step to ensure you get all the benefits that modern windows have to offer.

At Eicher's Pro Vinyl, our local team has over two decades of experience improving homes throughout Southern and Coastal Georgia. Whether you know exactly what you're looking for in your new windows or you need support as you search for the best possible windows for your property, we're here to help. Give us a call to schedule a free in-home quote or stop by one of our local showrooms to learn more about the windows we install. We look forward to helping you improve your home with high-quality windows!