So what should you do if you are considering replacing your contractor grade windows with new energy efficient ones? Here are the five things to consider to insure you are getting the best results.
ENERGY AUDIT: Have a legitimate energy audit done by a third party independent auditor. These companies do not sell or recommend specific products. But get them talking enough and they will probably tell you who to stay away from.
ENERGY TAX CREDITS: Find out what energy tax credits are available. These incentives can be federal, state, or utilities. Warning – some energy tax credits will not be available after December.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Research the energy efficiency of the various materials that are used in making the windows as well as the brands of the replacement windows. Generally wood or vinyl are the first choices and although some will tell you triple pane windows are the best, they are not really needed in the West, especially when you are calculating the payback.
PAYBACK: How long will it be before the savings you realize on your utility bills pay for the replacement windows. Don’t be awestruck by statements like; “we’ll save you 40% on your energy bill.” Even if that could be achieved, sit down and calculate how much that would actually be. Then find a replacement window that makes sense for your budget.
CONTRACTOR REPUTATION: This is where a lot of promised energy savings is lost. If the windows are not installed properly, most of the energy savings will not be realized. Talk to other customers who have had their windows replaced and see if they have seen a savings. Research the replacement window companies on the internet. And research both the window manufacturer and the installation company if they are not the same.
Disclaimer: for information and entertainment purposes only
Green Real Estate Appraiser 