Here at All-Weather Windows, Doors and Siding, we know choosing to replace your windows is a big decision. You may be asking yourself if it’s worth the money. There’s no getting around it…replacement windows are not cheap. And on a related note, cheap replacement windows are not good. So what can you expect to pay here in the Kansas City area for replacement window installation? 

According to the 2021 Cost Vs. Value Report published by Remodeling Magazine: 

Installation of 10 pocket replacement vinyl windows = $18,849  

(with 58.1% recouped at resale)

Installation of 10 pocket replacement wood windows = $22,669 

(with 60.7% recouped at resale)

That’s a lot of money. But don’t discount your return on investment. As you can see, replacement windows also allow the homeowner to recoup a large portion of their investment at resale. But let’s explore some other factors and see if replacement windows are worth the cost.

Resale Value

But if your home is drafty, your energy bills are high, or your windows are old and detract from the beauty and value of your home, new windows have some serious advantages. In fact, window replacement is in the top ten home projects for return on investment. According to 2020 national estimates by Remodeling magazine, between 72% (vinyl windows) and 69% (wood windows) of a window-replacement job is recouped in the selling price. So while the cost is high, the return on investment is also high.

Energy Savings

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Star certified windows can lower your energy bill by anywhere from $27 to $197 per year (based on replacing windows in a 2,000-square-foot single-story home with storm windows or double-pane, clear glass windows). If you replace single pane windows, your savings will be even higher – from about $101 to $583  per year. Your savings will vary depending on your local climate, utility rates in your area and your individual home, but those savings will add up over time. And, let’s not forget, your home will feel better too. 

Tax Credit

You can get a little bit of your money back with tax credits. Federal tax credits for certain energy-efficient improvements to existing homes have been extended through December 31, 2021. If you install Energy Star certified windows, you’ll be eligible for a tax credit of 10% of the windows’ cost up to a $200 total. It’s not a lot, but it’s something. You can’t apply it to installation costs, but it applies to both new construction and replacement windows. (Be aware that the IRS has a lifetime limitation of $500 for energy-efficiency upgrades, so if you’ve already used it all, you won’t be able to claim it.)

Insider Tip to Save

If your home is not old, your existing frames and sills are probably still sound and square. You can save money on materials and labor by using what’s known as pocket replacement units. These windows are slightly smaller and fit inside the existing window frames allowing you to keep the original frame, trim, siding, and casing intact making installation faster and easier and thus, saving you money. If your frames are too old and deteriorated, you’ll need full replacement windows, also known as “new construction” windows. These include the frame, sill, jambs, and usually what’s known as a nailing flange, which attaches the window to the outside wall around the opening.

Tips for Choosing a Window Replacement Company

No matter who you choose, make sure you do your homework. Choose a company that installs quality windows (we install Andersen and Wincore brands because we have found them to be the best value when it comes to quality and price) and a company that has been around and has a good reputation for customer service in the industry. We’ve been in business since 1986 and we offer a 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee. Replacing your windows is a significant investment and the last thing you want is buyer’s remorse on a project this big. The lowest price isn’t always the best choice. Go with a trusted name in windows and in the industry.

If you’re considering replacement windows, call All-Weather Windows, Doors & Siding at (913) 648-9589. Or visit us at 7710 Shawnee Mission Parkway in Overland Park, KS. We’ll take good care of you.

©2021 Zonda Media, a Delaware corporation. Complete data from the 2021 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded free at www.costvsvalue.com.