Unless you bought a brand-new house, you knew there would be projects.
- There’s painting.
- Changing the locks.
- Adding a new front door on for curb appeal.
But there is one thing that few new homeowners want to admit right away.
It’s admitting that windows that don’t open and others are costing you a ton of money as your heat and air conditioning can’t keep up.
No one wants to buy new windows because they are expensive.
They will cost thousands.
But you have to ask yourself if now is the time to buy new parts for your home.
Going with new windows not only can add curb appeal but can save you a ton of money each month on your electric bill.
So, before you pitch your new TV through that window that doesn’t open, here are a few things to consider to see if new windows are right for you and your budget now:
WHEN DO I NEED NEW WINDOWS?
When you walk into a room in your home, you feel a draft that is a sure sign that something is wrong. While it may simply be the caulk is no longer effective around the window, most likely, the window itself is shot.
The first thing you should do is consider the age of the window. Most should last 15 to 20 years. Wood crank windows can last up to 40 years if properly installed and maintained.
Another sure sign is the glass has condensation between windows. The glass, at this point, is a problem.
Do you have a rotten frame? You’d know because pieces of the wood are coming off, and there is moisture around your window.
But the surest sign that you need new windows comes in the mail each month. If your energy bills are high, this is a sign.
While you may not need all new windows, it helps on resale if they match.
Also, make sure they open or close properly. And look for water damage on the frame.
COMMON TYPES OF WINDOWS
So, now that you have decided to look at new windows, what’s right for you?
There are seven different types used in a house. And depending on your budget and the look you want, here are some things to consider.
- Single windows are the standard windows that slide up and are often vinyl. A good choice. You might want to get ones that open in for cleaning.
- Double windows: While you pay a little more, these windows can slide to the top or the bottom. They depend on what you want.
- Horizontal sliding window: Great for a kitchen. They slide to the left or right and are quick and easy to install and operate.
- Picture windows: Great to show off that mountain or ocean view. Not so great to show off your neighbor’s junk in the yard. Use this sparingly.
- Casement windows: These windows swing open with a crank. And are often made of wood.
- Bay windows: Think of these as three-dimensional windows. They show more than one view and are pricey. You can easily spend $4,000 on one of these.
- Awning windows: These push or crank open. Great for tight areas.
HOW LONG DO WINDOWS LAST IN A HOUSE IN MICHIGAN?
Good question. There is no real answer.
The average vinyl window should last easily 15 to 20 years.
Those made with fiber glass will last a little longer. The top window is usually made of wood. While they are hard to upkeep, these can last 30 or more years, according to pella.com.
Other things to consider are the area of your country and if someone properly installed the window. Because Michigan can have severe winter storms, expect to replace them faster than other regions in the USA.
ROTTEN WOOD TRIM
While this is a sure sign you need a replacement, check to see if it’s simply the strip around the window that you can easily replace.
COST OF REPLACING WINDOWS IN MICHIGAN
The average cost of replacing a window in your home in 2022 is between $375 and $800. This is the cost of the materials and installation.
While you can get cheap materials for cheap, remember that you don’t want to do this again. Materials for your home are not the time to be cheap.
Also, you can add great curb appeal if you pick nice windows. And the allure of your new home will go up.
Think resale. I know that’s hard. But you will thank me later.
If you want to splurge to showcase the front of your house, go ahead.
NOW HIRE THE BEST
You are now moving to the Ann Arbor area, so why not pick a trusted and reputable mover to reduce stress? Call All Around Moving and Storage at 734-941-2280. You can also fill out a form here. If you are moving out of Michigan, click here! Because we are an agent of National Van Lines, we can move you anywhere.
If you’re considering a move to a warmer climate, check out Queen Creek, AZ.
