One of the first steps to making your home more energy-efficient is considering new windows. Windows can be a source of value to your home, be it added or subtracted. Fortunately, there are many ways to make windows an asset to your home.
When considering replacing windows, it is important to know the current windows’ age. Windows 15 years and older commonly cause high energy bills due to draftiness and inefficiency. Windows may seem like an expensive investment, but many homeowners actually recoup as much as 70% of their investment.
Ways in which homeowners recoup the costs include added home value for a resale or refinance, tax credits and a reduction in energy bills. For more information on the expenses and savings of windows, go to http://bit.ly/czad0a.
To save money from the tax credit, the windows you buy must have U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient of 0.3 or less. Doing so saves you $1,500 right off the top, courtesy of the tax break.
While it depends on the windows you are replacing¾whether they are single or double pane, their age, and the environment in which you live¾new windows can produce energy bill savings anywhere from $100 to $500 per year, and sometimes even more. If you are unsure of which windows to choose for your home, or which are the most efficient, can find more information here: http://bit.ly/895mkl. Be sure to consider all of the variables in purchasing new windows and explore all available options such as a low interest loan from your utility.
When looking at windows, make sure they have the proper energy-efficiency rating and are best-suited for your climate. You can find all of this information at http://bit.ly/gyl9xu.
Don’t go window-shopping in the dark. Familiarize yourself with window lingo. Terms such as glazing, low-E and gas fills are frequently used to describe windows. Glazing means nothing more than the glass used in the windows and is used in calculating U-factors (as read before in rating its efficiency). Low-E means low emissivity and can add up to 10% of a window’s cost. Low-E filters can also be added to existing windows to increase efficiency. Gas fills increase insulation. Also consider which type of frame you would like. Vinyl frames typically require the least amount of maintenance, while wood may look better but requires more attention.
Just as you would for any other purchase, be a smart consumer and go prepared when shopping for windows.
Greater Louisville Association of REALTORS 
Not only is the window/glass important but the structure of the window as well. You might want to ask the installer or window vendor what the R-Factor of the window frame is; if any. The higher the number the better. Good Luck!
Maybe you have walked in an older home and felt the draft from the windows. With energy prices soaring, it is important to know that replacing windows now will cost you less in the long run! This includes not only windows but maintenance. Often, wooden frames go neglected and end up needing to be replaced for large amounts of money. Paint can prevent the wood from damaging more and can cover the unsightly effects of rot. Ultimately, vinyl might be your best option, especially if the window is older and the style is no longer current.
Consumers can also purchase new energy effecient products, such as new light fixtures, ventilation fans for the attic, and enery star appliances are great for reducing monthly utility bills1