Analyzing cost of replacement or staying with old windows
#1
06-11-08, 07:01 AM
Analyzing cost of replacement or staying with old windows
Does anyone know of a site that I can go to that will mathematically show me whether purchasing replacement windows is cost effective or just pay the higher utility bills?
Also does anyone know where I can find the national recommended installation guidelines for vinyl replacement windows so I can make sure they are installed properly which is very important?
Which of these windows are the best? al clad wood windows, vinyl clad wood windows or solid vinyl windows
Thank you so much for your timely response. Jen
Also does anyone know where I can find the national recommended installation guidelines for vinyl replacement windows so I can make sure they are installed properly which is very important?
Which of these windows are the best? al clad wood windows, vinyl clad wood windows or solid vinyl windows
Thank you so much for your timely response. Jen
#2
06-11-08, 03:48 PM
In the long run, it will not be cheaper to keep the old windows. Not sure where you would look this up, but new windows with good energy features like Lo-E/argon, etc will pay for themselves in energy saving in a few years. The house will feel more comfortable so you can lower the thermostat in the winter, which gives more savings. New replacement windows, with no other changes in the house, will save 15-30%(depends on your lifestyle, windows, installation, etc) on heating/cooling bills. You do the math. I have 12 windows in my house, thats roughly $5000 for quality vinyl replacement windows. Heating/cooling bills are $250/mo(low for our area) on average. You can save roughly $700-800/year on energy bills. Payback in 6+ yrs. But energy costs are skyrocketing, so that improves quickly.
