


There are numerous studies showing that when you figure out the amount of energy (and money) saved by replacing windows, it can take anywhere from 10 to over 100 years for it to add up to enough to pay for the window installation. Not everyone replaces windows just to save money. Sometimes windows are just plain ugly. If you want to put in new windows because you don’t like them, go right ahead. Just don’t expect to save enough energy to make financial sense. Most wood windows can be repaired and storm windows added at a lower cost than replacement, and you'll save almost as much energy. If you go this route, you can fix the windows then spend all the extra money you saved to improve insulation, air sealing and HVAC systems and come out way ahead. Baltimore HVAC contractors Blue Dot suggest having an in-home energy audit — it's a sure way to determine if your windows actually are playing a part in your home's energy loss.

The problem is that people selling replacement windows have a product that people can touch, feel and see after they are installed. This is sort of like solar panels or even a new car — you can show them off to your friends — unlike the more important stuff that you can’t see — like duct sealing, air sealing, attic insulation and lots of other things, most of which fall into the category of Home Performance. But most of those things aren’t cool, sexy or even visible after they’re installed. 


Carl Seville originally wrote this for Networx.com. It is reprinted with permission.