While everyone knows that having the right windows and doors keep robbers from breaking in as easily, there are other threats to homes that better windows can assist with, too. Whether you need to keep critters out during the winter months or need a lower energy bill year-round, investing in better windows can lead the way to a more comfortable and affordable home. And while you decide to take the project on yourself or need to hire a bit of extra help, the entire process of getting your windows redone often does not take very long, compared to what kind of time frame you're dealing with when you renovate an entire room of the house.
The trouble with windows is that sometimes, any other home renovation ends up being higher on a homeowner's list of priorities. Windows, unless broken, are not often thought of as something that needs fixing. But the fact is, having the right windows does wonders for your living space.
There is definitely a whole lot of charm that comes with owning an older house, no matter where in the country you happen to be. But one of the trouble with older New England saltbox homes and even ranches in the midwest is the fact that drafts come in, and they come in hard. If you have better windows, you end up spending less money on your heating and air conditioning bills, because you are better protected from the elements. And leaks from rainstorms can really do a number on interiors, so the very same windows that have trouble with wind often have the same problems with rain, too.
When you're embarking upon your windows home renovation project, it is important to figure out what your actual budget entails. Most people who are not used to doing any sort of fix-it-up activities should invest in having a professional come out for the installation, and this can often be done in a matter of days. You might want to ask around other friends to get a fair price, or you can go to a local hardware store and see if their department has anyone who can get the job done, too. With something like windows, which if dropped break and then immediately need to be replaced, be certain you're up to the home renovation challenge.
For those who are not quite convinced that their energy bills are going to be lower after taking on this somewhat-expensive home renovation project, consider the other things that better windows manage to accomplish for your home. If your neighborhood has slowly felt louder and louder, it might be the fact that you're still the only house on the block using single-paned windows. When you go with more energy-efficient windows, you also have the option of getting double-paned windows. And in addition to keeping rain and cold out better, they also do a great job with noise.
Likewise, families with new babies might want to consider the fact that older windows often come with the wrong kind of paint. You do not want to place a crib next to a windowsill that's covered in lead paint, and you do not want your windows to harbor secret mold problems, which will lead to a whole other level of home renovation if not immediately immediately. Making up your mind to invest in better windows is the sort of thing that benefits your peace of mind, your comfort, your pocketbook, and your future. There's no reason to not get it done sooner rather than later.