Posts Tagged ‘replacement windows’

« Older Entries

Home Upgrades That Still Deliver The Best Return If You Are Selling Your Home

Thursday, August 19th, 2010

Upgrading Existing Space Is Your Best Bet For Recouping Cost

It pays to know which upgrades will deliver the best return when you sell your home.   An annual remodeling report finds 4 basic replacements are likely your smartest choice.

Replacement projects included in the Cost vs. Value survey all cost less than $20,000 and most cost considerably less.  They instantly enhance curb appeal, boosting a home’s marketability, and they require little maintenance once installed.  A bonus: Most of these replacements qualify for a federal tax credit for energy efficiency (not included in Remodeling Magazine’s ROI calculations).

1. Replace the front door.

  • The absolute best return on the money of any of the projects surveyed — 129% of cost — is gained by replacing a beat-up front door with a $1,200 steel-shell door filled with foam insulation.
  • A new fiberglass door (more expensive, at $3,490) returns less, about 65%. (Fiberglass is the new chic building material because it’s rugged and durable, can be painted and will mimic almost any wood. Unlike wood, it doesn’t crack, warp or shrink and needs zero maintenance.)
  • Spend about $7,500 on an entire new entrance, including a widened opening, a solid-core wood door and high-end glass, new lighting and better locks, and you’ll recoup 69%, on average.

2. Replace home siding

  • Replacing old siding with a durable fiber-cement product ($13,287) recoups about 84% at resale.
  • Use vinyl siding ($10,607) to get an 80% return.
  • Foam-backed vinyl ($13,022) costs more and earns back less — roughly 79% — but it is much more efficient at insulating a home.

3. Replace windows. Three of the four window-replacement projects considered in the survey pay back about 77%:

  • Wood-trimmed windows ($11,700).
  • Lower-end vinyl windows ($10,728).
  • Windows trimmed in higher-end vinyl ($13,862).
  • The fourth project, higher-end wood-replacement windows ($17,816), has a return of about 72%. Fiberglass windows weren’t included in the study.

4. Replace the roofing: Spend $19,731 on new fiberglass asphalt shingles and you’re likely to recoup about 67% of the cost.

  • A higher-end roof replacement using standing-seam metal ($37,359) pays back about 61% of the cost, agents told the survey.
Source: realestatemsn.com
Remodeling Magazine: www.remodeling.hw.net/2009/costvsvalue

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Home Improvement, Remodeling Home, Roofing, Siding, Window Replacement | No Comments »

Final Criteria For The Energy Star Windows, Doors and Skylight Program

Thursday, August 5th, 2010

The U.S. Department of Energy has released its final revised criteria for the Energy Star Windows, Doors and Skylight program.  It went into effect January 4, 2010.  The Department of Energy has played a key role in rapidly advancing window technology in the past few years. This program will help move these technologies into the marketplace, providing significant energy savings to homes and businesses across the country.

The revised Energy Star program requirements for windows, doors, and skylights went into effect January 4, 2010.  For partners to make the necessary changes to their product and marketing materials, there will be a transition period to full program implementation, scheduled to end on March 31, 2010.  More details on the transition will be provided in the coming months.

*Northern zone windows can meet prescriptive (1st row)
or alternative energy performance (2nd & 3rd row) criteria
to qualify for Energy Star.

Minnesota homeowners looking to invest in new or replacement windows can contact your local window installation contractor. You will recover the cost of this investment in no time on energy savings alone.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Window Replacement | No Comments »

2010 Energy Star Qualification Criteria for Residential Windows, Doors & Skylights Windows

Thursday, June 10th, 2010

The U.S. Department of Energy has released its final revised criteria for the Energy Star Windows, Doors and Skylight program.  It went into effect January 4, 2010.  The Department of Energy has played a key role in rapidly advancing window technology in the past few years. This program will help move these technologies into the marketplace, providing significant energy savings to homes and businesses across the country.

2010 Energy Star Qualification Criteria for Residential Windows, Doors & Skylights
Windows
Climate Zone U-Factor SHGC
Northern* ≤0.30 Any
=0.31 ≥0.35
=0.32 ≥0.40
North-Central ≤0.32 ≤0.40
South-Central ≤0.35 ≤0.30
Southern ≤0.60 ≤0.27
Swinging & Sliding Doors
Glazing U-Factor SHGC
Opaque ≤0.21 NR
≤ ½-Lite ≤0.27 ≤0.30
> ½-Lite ≤0.32 ≤0.30
Skylights
Climate Zone U-Factor SHGC
Northern ≤0.55 NR
North-Central ≤0.55 ≤0.40
South-Central ≤0.57 ≤0.30
Southern ≤0.70 ≤0.30
NR=No rating

The revised Energy Star program requirements for windows, doors, and skylights went into effect January 4, 2010.  For partners to make the necessary changes to their product and marketing materials, there will be a transition period to full program implementation, scheduled to end on March 31, 2010, DOE notes.  More details on the transition will be provided in the coming months.

*Northern zone windows can meet prescriptive (1st row)
or alternative energy performance (2nd & 3rd row) criteria
to qualify for Energy Star.

Minnesota homeowners looking to invest in new or replacement windows can contact your local window installation contractor. You will recover the cost of this investment in no time on energy savings alone.


Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Window Replacement | No Comments »

Skylight Windows Help You Enjoy The Power Of The Sun

Thursday, April 22nd, 2010

The Power Of The Natural Light Of Skylights

The power of natural light to rejuvenate the body and mind is incredible.  Bringing this light source into your home allows you to take advantage of the most powerful source of energy known to man; The Sun!  You can brighten any room with natural light while at the same time saving energy.  As many as 78% of new homeowners today are asking for more light and more space.  Skylights can do both.

  • Save on your electric bills
  • Create the illusion of bigger rooms
  • Fit all roof types
  • Generate more wall space
  • Maintenance free
  • Brings natural light into the room

Your new skylight windows may qualify for the tax credit stimulus incentive package.

Tax incentives make this the RIGHT TIME to replace your old, inefficient windows with qualifying replacement windows.  I am excited to tell you that when the American Recovery & Investment Act still includes a major consumer tax credit that provides funds for replacement windows.  Don’t miss out on this opportunity to save money – on your windows now and on your energy costs forever!  You will recover the cost of this investment in no time on energy savings alone; not to mention the increase in property value that usually comes with home improvements.

The criteria for ENERGY STAR Residential Windows Door and Skylights has been revised effective January 4, 2010: View the new specification (206KB).

Talk to your Minnesota window contractor about how you can save a lot of money and spruce up your property in the process by installing new skylight windows.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Window Replacement | 1 Comment »

Criteria For ENERGY STAR Residential Windows Door and Skylights Has Been Revised

Tuesday, April 20th, 2010

ENERGY STAR Residential Windows Door and Skylights

Windows, doors, and skylights have become an important part of the energy plan.  They do not allow cold air to enter around a window, thus cooling the surface.  Spacers between glazing in double or triple glazed windows are more energy efficient and do not allow cold air to migrate through them causing the glazing to cool.

Special metallic coatings have been developed, known as Low E or low emissivity, which reflects radiant heat and restricts its flow through glass.  During cold weather, it will keep heat inside.  In hot weather, it keeps outside.

Using energy efficient windows will keep the interior glass surfaces warmer, which will reduce the interior cool surfaces on which moisture can condense.

There are many new innovations in window and door technology that will greatly enhance your home and save you a lot of money on your energy bills.  No matter what features you are interested in, the most important part is proper installation.

Whether it is new or replacement windows you are looking for, let the professionals help you choose the right windows, in the right style, with the right glass, and with all the right options for your home.

The criteria for ENERGY STAR Residential Windows Door and Skylights has been revised effective January 4, 2010: View the new specification (206KB).

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Window Replacement | 1 Comment »

Save Money With Quality Windows From Langerman Exteriors

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

Home Improvement Tax Credits

Save Money With Quality Windows From Langerman Exteriors

If you are considering a home improvement project this year, now is the time!  Remember that the energy tax incentives can help save you money.  This legislation provides consumer tax credits for making their homes more energy efficient.

Langerman Exteriors can provide you with quality windows to enhance the look, value, and energy efficiency of your home.  If you buy them now, you may qualify for a credit of 30% of the product cost up to $1,500 on your federal income tax.  To be eligible, windows, doors and skylights must have both a U-Factor equal to and less than 0.30 and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) equal to or less than 0.30.

Lower energy bills, attractive appearance, easier cleaning, maintenance free operation, and increase your home value…these are the benefits you get with every product purchased from Langerman Exteriors.  Choose from wide selection of attractive options that will make your home stand out in a crowd.

Call the experts at from Langerman Exteriors today.  Let us help you choose the right window style, with the right glass, and all the right options that will suit your needs as well as your budget.  Contact our office to get started at 763-493-0058.

For more information on what qualifies for tax credits visit energystar.gov/taxcredits

Get the ENERGY STAR Guide — For complete information on keeping your home comfortable year-round, get the ENERGY STAR Guide to Energy Efficient Cooling and Heating

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Window Replacement | No Comments »

HOME IMPROVEMENT NEWS FOR 2009

Monday, October 26th, 2009

Home Improvements Are “In!”

 As most consumers are unaware of our President and his economic stimulus packages, there are many residential home improvement items that qualify for the State of Minnesota/Federal Tax Rebates for 2009.  In consideration of many of these improvements, windows, doors, roof insulation, metal and asphalt roofing, are at a 30% tax rebate up to $1500 for existing homes only.  (See www.energystar.gov)

When it comes to the projects that make sense, given the housing market is at a historical low, here are some of the best places to put money into your home for remodeling.

• Siding Replacement – ranks among the highest in terms of cost recouped at a approximately 70%

• Window Replacement – also ranks at approximately 70% cost recouped

• Roof Replacement – as a major improvement if your roof is in need of replacement, why not take advantage of your federal tax rebate money now. (This can also be included in your hail-damaged roofs.  (Note: there are some color requirements for this rebate.)

In the upper Midwest, these are the approximate percentages according to the Remodeling Magazine for your resale of existing homes.

Langerman Exteriors Inc has been a window, siding, and roofing contractor serving Minnesota and Western Wisconsin homeowners for over 40 years.  With our many years of hands on personal experience, we are knowledgeable in all areas of home and property improvements.  Please call us at 763-493-0058.  We would like the opportunity to discuss your needs in further detail.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Home Improvement | 1 Comment »

Recover Energy Cost With Replacement Windows

Friday, October 23rd, 2009

Cut the cost with replacement windows

While replacement windows can be costly, the monetary savings of today’s energy efficient windows can more than compensate for the initial financial output.  According to a nation’s energy survey, replacement windows can save you an average of 75 cents on the dollar, as compared to cooling alternatives.  So the real question is not whether replacement windows can save you money, but rather how much!

Langerman Exteriors can help you save a lot of money and spruce up your property in the process by installing new doors and windows.  You will recover the cost of this investment in no time on energy savings alone; not to mention the increase in property value that usually comes with home improvements.

Based on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, you can now take advantage of the Federal tax credit for qualified Replacement Windows.  Tax credits are available for up to 30% of the cost, up to $1500, for existing homes.

Check www.efficientwindows.org for more information on what qualifies for the tax credits

Contact our office today to get started at 763-493-0058.

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Window Replacement | 1 Comment »

Purchasing A Replacement Window

Wednesday, October 21st, 2009

Recover The Cost Of Replacement Windows

When selecting replacement windows, there are basically five major factors you should consider.  First of all, look at the type of glazing material on the window.  It is plastic?  Is the glass treated?  Secondly, how many layers of glass are there?  Two layers are preferred.  What is the distance between the layers?  More distance means more insulation.  What type of window frame and spacer materials will be used?  A quality frame will protect your replacement windows and reduce thermal resistance.  Finally, the installation of your replacement windows is essential because a properly fitted, energy efficient window should be air tight.

Langerman exteriors can help you save a lot of money and spruce up your property in the process by installing new doors and windows.  You will recover the cost of this investment in no time on energy savings alone; not to mention the increase in property value that usually comes with home improvements.

Based on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, you can now take advantage of the Federal tax credit for qualified Replacement Windows.  Tax credits are available for up to 30% of the cost, up to $1500, for existing homes.  See www.energystar.gov for more details.

Contact our office today to get started at 763-493-0058.

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Window Replacement | 1 Comment »

Purchasing A Replacement Window

Friday, October 2nd, 2009

Replacement windows…Are They Worth The Cost?

Windows are supposed to let light in and keep weather out.  But considering the fact that glass has virtually no insulating value and is a poor barrier to radiant energy, it’s important that you choose your replacement windows wisely.  Today’s energy efficient windows come in all sorts of shapes, styles, and colors.  So how do you go about selecting the right windows for your home?

The U-Factor

Manufacturers represent the energy efficiency of a window through a term called a U-factor.  This value represents the window’s ability to conduct heat.  Manufacturers also utilize another value called the R-factor.  This number measurers the window’s resistance to heat flow.  Both values are reciprocals of each other, so a replacement window with a high R-factor will lose less heat than one with a lower R-factor.  And, a replacement window with a low U-factor will lose less heat than one with a higher U-factor.

Purchasing a replacement window

When selecting replacement windows, there are basically five major factors you should consider.  First of all, look at the type of glazing material on the window.  It is plastic?  Is the glass treated?  Secondly, how many layers of glass are there?  Two layers are preferred.  What is the distance between the layers? More distance means more insulation.  What type of window frame and spacer materials will be used?  A quality frame will protect your replacement windows and reduce thermal resistance.  Finally, the installation of your replacement windows is essential because a properly fitted, energy efficient window should be air tight.

Cut energy cost with replacement windows

While replacement windows can be costly, the monetary savings of today’s energy efficient windows can more than compensate for the initial financial outlay.  According to a nation’s energy survey, replacement windows can save you an average of 75 cents on the dollar, as compared to cooling alternatives.  So the real question is not whether replacement windows can save you money, but rather how much!

You will recover the cost of this investment in no time on energy savings alone; not to mention the increase in property value that usually comes with home improvements.win

Contact Langerman Exteriors  today at 763-493-0058 to get started.  And remember, if insurance is covering any of the cost of your window and door project, we’ll handle everything for you.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Window Replacement | No Comments »

« Older Entries