With all things in life that you may purchase, you’d hope you would be buying something that is a good balance between being both cost-effective and high quality. It would be a shame to buy something that initially seemed like it was saving you money but wound up being worthless, non-functioning, and costing you more to replace in the long run. It’s this kind of challenge that most consumers face when making the important decision to purchase new windows for their home. Are they really worth it? How do I know these are actually good quality? Are energy efficient windows actually efficient? These are the questions that will run through a consumer’s mind when the window salesperson brings out a bunch of sample window types for them to choose from.
How could you really tell if the windows are high-quality windows just from looking at them? I guess if you’re not a window expert, you can’t immediately be certain that the window being presented to you is actually high-quality, not even if you knock on the glass. If you find yourself currently in a predicament whether to go for the more cost effective windows or the top quality ones, here’s a little insight on the difference between the two:
COST EFFECTIVE
PROS
The idea is that cost-effective windows or anything to say the least is supposed to save you money. That would be first and foremost on the list of pros for cost-effective windows. The other thing to consider is, people often think installing their own windows is the most cost effective approach to getting new windows on a budget. Understandably, the cost for replacement windows installed by professionals can appear daunting at first however, almost always during an installation job, there are always unforeseen issues that may arise once the old frame is removed.
There could be apparent rotting or irregular shaped frames due to climate or weather conditions. This would be no challenge for the experts who are equipped with the tools and skills to overcome these kind of obstacles however, for the average person, it would end up costing you more money and stress to complete the job.
CONS
When you shave off a few hundred dollars from the cost of replacement windows, it could mean the difference between the window having certain quality features or not. For example, the quality of the hardware or the rating of the window. The hardware on the windows matters a great deal because they add to the security of the window. It’s also the parts that allow air to escape or get in through the window. Quality windows will always have high-quality hardware made from materials that are made to last.
When speaking with a window expert, ask about the ratings of any windows you consider, especially the cheaper windows, it will help you gain more knowledge on their level of quality.
The U-Factor measures heat inside the room that can’t escape. You want to see a lower number there. The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how much heat outside can come into the room. You also want a low number there. You want a high number here. The VT or Visibly Transmittance measures how much natural light can come into the room. Higher numbers show more natural light getting in. If you want natural light, look for greater numbers here and vice versa if we want your windows to offer better shade. Air Infiltration numbers rate how much air gets through the window. The lower the number the better the window is at keeping air and dust and other items out. Cheaper window types may not be built with all of these features.
HIGH QUALITY
PROS
The list could go on and on. High quality windows can show substantial benefit in the short-term and long-term, particularly if they are energy-efficient window types. Immediately after installing high quality windows you and the other members of the home will have the comfort and peace of mind that you home is secure from intruders. You will also notice greater UV protection meaning, you can let the natural light pour into the room without immediately feeling like the room is heating up, like sunscreen but for your home. Windows that have Low-E insulating double-pane or triple-pane glass with argon are the ones that provides added protection from UV-rays.
Newer quality window designs are built with features designed to increase sustainability, they are durable, and are easy to keep clean and maintain. Look for features like between-the-glass blinds, shades or grilles not only contribute to less time spent cleaning, they can also reduce the dust and allergens in your home.
CONS
Needless to say, there aren’t many cons to buying high quality replacement windows for your home. Who wouldn’t want the absolute best for their home? There is no quality too great when it comes to the comfort and security of your home. The idea is that initially, high quality windows may have the higher price tag however, it’s likely to come with greater benefit and return on investment in the long run.
Choosing energy-efficient windows is one way you can have both high quality windows that are also cost effective in the long term. Well-insulated windows keep extreme outdoor conditions from affecting your indoor heating and cooling system. With that being said, you can take comfort in knowing you can still get cost effective windows that won’t jeopardize the quality. Replacement windows can be one of the more costly renovation jobs for your home but it is one that has the potential to yield the greatest return on investment in terms of the resale value of your home and the savings on energy bills. Replacement windows is no doubt a worthwhile investment for homeowners.
