REPLACING OLD DOORS AND WINDOWS

How to Get the Most For Your Money

Doors and Windows $$$$

Doors and windows can transform the look and feel of a house. Replacing an old worn front door adds immediate curb appeal and helps make a solid first impression. Not only do windows and doors cosmetically upgrade a home, they also make it more efficient. Today more and more people are becoming increasingly conscious energy efficiency when shopping for a new home. As a result, houses that prove to be "eco-friendly" and made more efficient with modern upgrades are very appealing in today's housing market.

People are looking for energy-saving characteristics like new windows, updated efficient features and Energy-Star appliances. Many companies now offer Energy-Star rated window and doors that have insulation values which are vastly improved and can help save hundreds on heating bills over an extended period of time.

Double glazed windows, with an intermediate layer of atmospheric gases, or argon between two glass plates have become the standard in window installation and make a dramatic difference. The gas between the glass acts as a buffer between the outside temperature and indoor temperature and is astonishingly efficient.

The cost of new doors and windows is expensive but some of the cost can be recouped over time in reduced heat bills if you plan on staying in the house. The downside for a renovation for resale is that you might not benefit from the upgrades yourself; you are upgrading for the next owner.

On average, it takes somewhere between 10 and 15 years in our climate region to fully recoup the total investment, however there are many factors involved. In addition to reducing energy consumption, new windows and doors can increase the quality of life, improve the overall style of the home and add value to the resale of a home.

Studies suggest that up to SEVENTY-FIVE PERCENT of the cost of new windows can be recouped in the resale of a home.

As a result, window and door replacements can be a good investment. It is always a good idea to ask for multiple quotes from different people before hiring a company. Get started by researching what prices and rates local door and window companies are currently offering.

Be sure to check out the full article on how to be money wise when renovating.

Most Valuable Home Updates has valuable tips and information on renovation as well as links to the other top home renovations.

You may also be interested in the following:

Incorporating Sustainable Design; Learn more about "Green" cost saving measures.

RENOVA; The Appraisal Institute of Canada's guide to the value of home improvement.