Home Building Materials - What Should You Spend on Windows?

">capture?
You could say that the beauty of a window is inIf you are building a new home, it pays to place
the outside world that it frames. It's also true thatthe larger, clear pane windows to capture any
the beauty lies in the way beams of light brightenviews that you have. Early planning during the
your home's interior ... the furniture, the floordesign phase of your home will pay dividends
coverings, a painting.later.
But how much should we spend on them?5) What is your weather like?
What is Your Budget?Is it going to be windy, dusty, cold, rainy? What is
You can purchase windows within any budget.your elevation? Elevation and weather play a
But, what do you really want and need and whatbigger role than you might think. Wind can rattle
is the controlling factor when it comes toeven new, seemingly well-built windows. Different
choosing? First, you need to answer a fewwindow operations will work better in some
questions:weather environments.
1) What's the primary benefit you want fromWhat do Windows Cost?
your windows?As mentioned, you can get windows to fit pretty
If energy conservation is your primary goal, youmuch any budget you set. It's a matter of
may want triple pane windows. And, do you wantpriorities and balancing what you want in windows
ease of operation? You can purchase single hung,vs. every other aspect of your remodel or home
double hung, fixed panes, and casement windows.building project.
2) What is the value and style of your homeHere's an example to give you an idea. Windows
now?for a 2000 square foot home with an average
Windows do not have to necessarily match thenumber of windows can cost between $3500 to
style of your home but, in some cases this is$25,000 on average. Depending on some of the
important. You may want to consult with anfactors already mentioned, the price could be
architect or interior designer. One rule of thumb ishigher.
to avoid installing very high end windows in aInstallation Costs
lower end home unless you enjoy the quality andInstallation is another factor. You'll want
plan on living in the home a long time.experienced installers but you'll also need to make
3) How many windows do you have and whatsure that they are installed according to the
are their sizes?manufacturers requirements. With care, some
The number and size of your windows is naturallypeople will install their own.
a big factor in the eventual cost. Always considerOnce you've considered your needs and prioritized
this when you are pricing out individual windowsyour wants, do your research. And always try to
for comparison.personally see the actual windows before you
4) Do you have large views you want topurchase.