Q–We’re thinking of buying an older home that the real estate agent said will probably need replacement windows. She mentioned that although it will be a hefty investment, we might see some sort of payback with these windows. Can you tell us about the efficiency of replacement windows and their paybacks?
A–There are several factors to consider when purchasing replacement windows. The most important thing to remember is that it’s a long-term investment, when it comes to energy efficiency. In other words, it will take years, if not decades, to recoup the cost of the windows with savings on your heating and cooling bills. As a result, replacement windows may not be a good investment if you’re only planning to stay in the house for a few years. It would be hard to pass on the cost of the windows to the next buyers.
How long it takes for the windows to pay for themselves in energy savings depends on a number of things. For example, if the existing windows are old, leaky single-pane windows, you may recoup your initial investment a lot quicker. That’s because staying with the old windows will cost you a lot of money, energywise. As cold air infiltrates your home through the windows, you’ll turn up the heat. Old, single-pane windows are about one-third as energy-efficient as a new window, according to U.S. Department of Energy studies. As much as one-quarter of your annual heating bill can be attributed to poor windows, the department studies show. So if your annual heating bill is $1,600, you can save $400 a year with new windows. If it costs $4,000 for the new windows, you’ll recoup that cost in 10 years.
The type of windows you purchase will also play into this equation. For example, the better the energy efficiency of the new windows, the quicker you’ll recoup the cost. The best type of window is a double or triple-glazed, low-Ereplacement window with a special low-emittance coating designed for reducing solar heat gain. When considering new windows, look for an EnergyStar label–a government seal of approval–that tells that the windows are energy-efficient for the Chicago climate. Also, look for something called a U-value, which is a rating system produced by the National Fenestration Rating Council. The lower the number the better. As that number gets lower, it means that less heat transmission or heat loss will occur through the glass of the window.
In cold climates such as Chicago, a U-value of .50 or .35 is recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy. If the initial cost of the replacement windows is going to be hard to swallow, there’s another option. If the home’s windows are dual-pane, try sealing and caulking the windows, as well as fixing any broken or cracked panes. That’s going to cost a lot less than replacement windows and there will be an immediate payback.
You can also consider adding new storm windows, which will again be less costly than replacement windows. As with any other home improvement project, get bids from several contractors, and ask for referrals.
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Got a question about home energy or home environmental issues? Write to Energy Q&A, Chicago Tribune, Your Place section, 435 N. Michigan Ave., 4th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611. Or you can e-mail energyqa@aol.com.
