TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL/AngiesList.com) --When it comes to items around a house nothing is going to last forever and windows are no different. Angie's List founder Angie Hicks says homeowners can expect to replace their windows if they live in their house for a long period of time.
"Your return on investment can be a really good return in your heating and cooling bills throughout the year, but you need to live in your house for a period of time before you realize those savings which can be as much as seventy percent," said Angie.
The style, shape and type of window will play a factor it it's cost. A triple-paned window will cost significantly more than a single-paned window, but will provide better energy efficiency and long-term energy savings.
According to Window Salesman Chris Pasa, "The most important rating system that windows have today is the U factor. U factor is a number that they put on each window that tells you just how efficient it is. The lower the number, the more efficient that window is."
Common signs that windows need replaced include wood rot and drafts.
"The two most popular windows are still wood windows and vinyl windows," says Pasa, "Typically when you use a wood window it's a clad version, meaning it's a solid wood window but it's covered on the outside with either vinyl or aluminum, that way you don't have the upkeep and you don't need to worry about them rotting and things like that. And then the other window is a vinyl window, which is 100% vinyl. It's inside and out maintenance free and should last you a lifetime."
Angie's List says it's important that windows are installed correctly because doing it wrong can lead to many problems like air leakage and loss of energy efficiency. You could also void your warranty if the window is installed wrong.
"When hiring a window contractor you want to do your homework," says Angie Hicks. "Remember that this is an investment in your house that is going to last for a long period of time so you want to know what kind of guarantees and warranties come with the windows."
If someone is concerned about the price tag up front, Angie suggests look at replacing windows one by one over time as funds become available.
Also, look into federal tax credits available for qualifying windows, which can help lower that upfront cost.
Watch "Getting it Done" with Abbey Maurer every Monday on WTXL ABC 27 News at 5:00 p.m.
