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What to consider when investing in new windows

It is a fact that windows will start to show signs of aging after 20 years or so. Common signs of age are that they become more difficult to operate, start fogging, leaking and get drafty. Re-painting or re-sealing will not fix the problem in the long run. However, the thought of replacing all the windows in a home can make most homeowners feel daunted and overwhelmed.

Investing in new windows will improve the look and feel of your home and help save you money on your energy bills. It will also increase the value of your property. In this post, we will look at the top 4 things to consider when investing in new windows for your home.

Appearance

When thinking about a style for your new windows, look at the interior and exterior of your home; the window style will need to complement your property inside and out. If you have a period home or live in a listed property, your options could be limited by planning permission. Mike Ward, managing director of JELD-WEN explains to Real Homes Magazine, “It’s key to assess the character of your property and what window solutions will enhance its beauty whilst providing plenty of light, energy efficiency, and heat retention.”

With so many different window designs available, there is bound to be a perfect one for your home. Think of the style of your home, the windows in neighbours’ properties and consider a colour that will complement your property’s aesthetic. There’s plenty of advice out there – why not take a few photos and visit a showroom. Experts can then show you some suggestions on which window styles will suit your home.

Function and operation

Take a trip to a window showroom, look and test display windows. Do they open and close with ease? Are the locking devices and runners on the windows capable of withstanding heavy use? Think about your lifestyle – do you require high security locks to ensure children’s safety? Consider how much light you want to let in. Letting in more light can make your rooms feel larger.

Energy efficiency

Installing new windows will do wonders for reducing your energy bills. Most old windows and doors can result in homes losing around 10% of their energy. Investing in good windows will reduce heat loss, keeping your house warm and reducing the need for central heating. When choosing your new windows, look at the window’s performance rating so that you know which windows to purchase based on the climate and the design of your home.

Installation

Make sure that the company installing your windows is a reputable one, and that they are trained and certified. Even the best windows will look bad if they are poorly installed, and could result in problems later on down the line.