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July
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Summer Upgrades: The Benefits of Upgrading Your Windows and Doors
You love your new home. The only problem is, it gets a little hot in the summer. Cooling it off means running your A/C all day, which drives your utility bills up. Fortunately, there's a way to improve your comfort, efficiency, and a variety of other factors in your home: installing new, energy-efficient windows and doors. Here are some of the benefits of upgrading your windows and doors this summer.
- Reduced Air Leaks
One of the biggest culprits in driving your energy bills up is air leaks. The cool air from your A/C leaks out of your home, replaced by warm air from outside. Double or triple-paned windows provide an additional barrier that keeps outside air out and your cool, conditioned air in. Likewise new doors can create a better seal in your home, preventing air from getting in. This reduces your A/C's workload, allowing your home to stay cool without it running so much and reducing your utility bills. In fact, new, Energy Star-approved windows can reduce your energy usage by around 15%, while adding energy-efficient doors can reduce them by up to an additional 30-35%. - Improved Insulation
Many energy-efficient windows also put argon gas between the multiple panes, a substance that doesn't conduct heat well. That means the heat absorbed by the first pane doesn't transfer to the second, keeping your home cooler. Likewise, installing doors made of fiberglass provides insulation that keeps the heat out. Or if you prefer a wood door, simply add insulation between the panels to keep your home cool. - Noise Reduction
Do you live on a busy street with lots of traffic? Do the neighbors throw loud parties? Double and triple-paned glass is not only great for efficiency, but it helps block out a lot of the noise from outside, giving you peace and quiet no matter what's going on in the neighborhood. - Improved Safety and Security
Do you have a window that sticks, is painted shut, or is otherwise difficult to open? Imagine if there was a fire. That difficult-to-open window could be the difference between escaping and being trapped. Or maybe you have a window that doesn't close all the way or won't shut tightly. That's a weak spot that could make your home a target for break-ins. Not only will new windows open smoothly and close tightly, making them easier to secure and easier to escape through in an emergency, but many newer models are also designed with enhanced security features, such as locks and sensors that will keep out intruders. Likewise, a new, sturdy door with secure locks will make your home more difficult to get into. - Improved Air Quality
One of the most common places for dust to accumulate in your home is on your blinds or window shades. But if you're getting double-paned windows, one upgrade to consider is placing the blinds between the glass. You can still control them easily to block out the sun and reduce heat but without the dust and allergens. Thus, your air quality improves, you can breathe easier, and your air filter can last longer as well. - Increased Home Value
If you have plans to sell your home someday, window and door upgrades will increase its value. Not only are new windows better than old ones, but the improved energy efficiency means potential buyers will be able to save money in the long run - something that's worth paying a little more for now.
Our real estate agents can help you find a home you can be comfortable in this summer and for many years to come. Contact us, and we'll help you find your dream home among the many Augusta homes for sale!