Debunking Myths About Door and Window Replacement

The Truth About Upgrading to Energy Efficient Windows and Doors

We’ve all heard about the benefits of replacing your windows and doors with energy efficient ones. For some of you, hearing about the benefits and savings was enough to make you invest in purchasing energy efficient door and window replacements. For others, you may need more to be convinced. Well, we have you covered. Glass Express Inc. came across an article in Atlanta Home Improvement Magazine that debunks the myths of energy efficient products.

Myth #1 – Door and window replacements won’t really save that much energy

The Truth – Replacing old windows with energy efficient ones can save a significant amount of energy. In reports published by the U.S. Department of Energy and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in 2006, it was stated that if half the homes using single-pane windows in the U.S. upgraded to energy-efficient ones, approximately 20 million BTUs would be saved per year. For clarity, a BTU is a British thermal unit, and It is the quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of liquid water by 1 degree Fahrenheit at the temperature that water has its greatest density (approximately 39 degrees Fahrenheit).

Myth #2 – Changing your windows and doors will cost more money than it will save

The Truth – Replacing the windows and doors of your home is an investment. However, it’s a worthwhile investment. Recovery of this investment in home value and energy savings is dependent upon the length of time you stay in your home after the replacement. Energy-efficient windows and doors can reduce monthly heating and cooling bills by up to 20%.

Myth #3 – It’s better to repair windows and doors than replace them. Repairs are less expensive and can make the windows and doors energy-efficient.

The Truth – If the repair is not quick and easy, then replacing your windows and doors is a better option. When you replace a window or door, you have the ability to choose from different style and energy ratings. When repairing a broken door or window, it’s almost impossible to increase its energy efficiency.