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While there are a lot of improvements you can make to your home to increase its value, windows and doors should be at the top of your list. Windows and doors will not only increase the value of your home, but they will also help you save energy by allowing in more natural light.

Why don't you take a deep dive with us to understand how and what windows and doors can impact your home's value? Don't worry, it will only be a few minutes.

Up to 25% of the total heat loss from a house can be attributed to windows and doors. It is possible to repair windows and doors, but the preferable option is to substitute them with windows and doors that are energy efficient. So, one reason people upgrade their windows and doors is energy efficiency.

There are more reasons and they are as follows:

A project's budget is usually a key factor when making plans. As the prices of things continue to go up, so will the cost of living. This is already evident in the cost of gas, food, wood, and steel, as you would have observed. This has also taken a toll on the cost of production and building materials. Therefore, one would expect a trickle-down effect on installing new windows and doors. Inevitably, the cost of such a project will only rise over time.

By increasing the curb appeal of your home, it becomes more appealing to interested buyers. Your home will sell for top dollar if you install upgrades to your windows and doors. And not just because you intend to sell your house, but because an aesthetically appealing home is desireable even for homeowners. Therefore, with improved curb appeal, you can be sure of a decent return on investment.

Maintenance can be especially purse-draining for most homeowners. It is even worse if you have old doors and windows that require constant upkeep and repairs. And it is not a good look for you if a guest constantly has to use the back door because maintenance is being done on the front door. Eventually, the cost would add up and you would see the need to invest in new window and door upgrades. This will help you save money in the long run.

 

 

If you have decided or have a plan in motion to finally replace your home windows, then it is best you understand the different types of windows that will do just fine as an upgrade.

Most people don't know that the reason their energy bills keep mounting is because of old and bad windows. Your energy bills can increase by 10–20% when there is an air leak in your window.

However, new advances in window technology have taken care of that issue, thereby increasing energy efficiency and durability.

Here are some conventional window styles that you can consider:

This style of window has hinges mounted along the side. It opens up towards the outside at a horizontal angle, just like a normal door would. With this type of window, you can expect lower rates of air leakage.

The similarity between a casement window and an awning window is close. These styles of windows have their hinges lined at the top, and unlike casement windows, they open towards the outside at a vertical angle. Also, like the casement, it has a lower rate of air leakage.

This window, unlike the casement and awning windows, has hinges lined at the bottom and opens inward. The only similarity with the casement and awning windows is that their air leak rate is also low.

This type of window is fixed, which implies that it can't be opened. As a result, it is airtight and not susceptible to air leaks.

These styles of windows open by sliding the sashes horizontally. This type of window has a high rate of air leakage.

This type of window slides horizontally to open. Only one sash slides open in the single hung style, while both sashes slide open in the double hung style. This window also has high rates of air leakage.

Your consideration of these types of windows should be based on whether you are after increasing your home's value or increasing energy efficiency. You can see that these types of windows offer varying rates of air leakage, which is a deciding factor in how much you save on energy consumption.

 

 

Energy Star-rated windows are considered based on the cores, specific frames, and features. Having been independently tested, black windows and tri-pane windows are more energy-saving and can add value to your home in the long run.

Now, let's look at the doors that you should consider:

A front door is among the first things to come into view when approaching your house. A new front door will give potential buyers a good first impression of your house. Your front door can truly be improved by adding small details like glass accents, vibrant colors, solid wood with raised panels, fiberglass, steel, and other materials.

This is a common type of door and can be coated in a wooden texture that mimics the appearance of wood. Fiberglass entry doors require little to no maintenance and are wear and dent resistant. This makes them highly coveted by home buyers and because they are ideal for the Canadian elements.

Steel doors are very affordable, weatherproof, and provide great levels of security. Additionally, they are energy efficient, which increases the value of a property. However, dents can be hard to repair, and if they are neglected, they start to rust.

These types of doors are relatively expensive, but they can represent sophisticated design, which makes them great as interior doors. Upgrading your interior doors can help to contain noise and increase privacy within the house. 

This type of door comes with panels that slide from side to side. These doors function well in small spaces and provide you with more flexibility when it comes to how your home's interior is laid up. They are made from either glass or vinyl, so they can be a great way to add value to your home. However, they are not all that energy efficient. 

The more energy efficient these doors are, the more value they'll add to your home. If you do your research into Energy Star door models, you will find that Energy Star rated doors add the most value to your home. Steel doors are particularly Energy Star certified, so they are a good choice for your home.

 

 

Installation can be complex and has to be done by a qualified contractor. The majority of entry doors are pre-hung in frames. Generally speaking, you should choose a door that is similar in size to the old one; otherwise, the door frame will need to be completely replaced. Even if you're installing a window or door that's the same size as the old one, you should hire a professional contractor to reduce the likelihood of mistake.

Nobody gets enthused about changing their windows and doors by just taking a look at them. But when it comes to home improvement projects, new windows and doors can make a big difference in luring buyers to your house and helping you sell it for a top price. Not only that, but by upgrading your windows and doors, you are helping to save the planet.

With over 60 years of experience and an innovative product offering, JELD-WEN Canada is one door and window manufacturer that puts the satisfaction of its patrons at the forefront of everything else. This is why Canadians choose us for their door and window needs. It is always great to know that we are a part of our patrons' success and happiness.