The best replacement windows make your home a better place to live. They add to its curb appeal, improve its level of comfort, reduce the energy it uses and increase its market value. However, all of these benefits come at a price. Replacing your windows with quality units is an investment.
There are at least five huge considerations when you’re preparing a budget for window replacement:
1. Material
The biggest of these considerations is the cost of the materials used to manufacture the windows you want. When you think about the materials, think about longevity and the cost of ownership as well. Cost of ownership means going beyond the initial price tag and taking into account how much it would cost to maintain your windows.
For example, vinyl windows are good, but they tend to bow when exposed to too much heat. In contrast, replacement windows manufactured using a long-lasting, low-maintenance composite like Fibrex® means you’ll be saving money in the long term.
Consider also the cost of the other things, including nails and other extra materials and upgrades.
2. Installation
Labor costs also have to be included in your budget. When you work with a manufacturer that also installs the windows, you’ll get an estimate that should already indicate the cost of labor and materials. It will cost more than installing windows yourself or hiring a general handyman, but you can be sure of the quality of installation. You might even get a separate warranty for the workmanship.
3. Old Window Removal and Disposal
Removing your old windows and disposing of them are not included in the cost of installation and the price of the new windows. Make sure to clarify this with your contractor so you won’t get any unpleasant surprises. Ask them to give you a quote that includes the cost of removal and disposal.
4. Savings
When you factor in the cost of ownership, you should also think about the benefits of installing new, energy-efficient windows. The long-term savings you can get from installing these windows should influence your buying decision and budgeting.
5. Tax Credits
In many states, when you install home components that reduce your energy usage, you become eligible for tax credits. Find out if this is possible where you live. Those tax credits can lead to extra savings, which should also be considered when you budget for your new windows.
Your home deserves new replacement windows. Get in touch with Renewal by Andersen® of San Francisco. We can discuss your budget and come up with the right solutions to your needs. Call us today at (866) 609-5033, or fill out our form here. We can work on your project in San Francisco, CA.
