"If eyes are the windows to our souls, then windows are the eyes into the soul of a house." -Rose Tarlow
When we wake up in the morning and open our eyes, we’re given the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful things the outside world has to offer, such as a sunrise, a crystal blue ocean or even an adorable baby smiling at us. Like our eyes, the windows in our home allow us to see the world and experience the wonders and beauty that exist outside. The windows in our home allow us to embrace our surroundings. Pull the curtains open in a dark room and your entire mood can transform in an instant. Nothing brightens your day like seeing your children laughing and playing in your own backyard.
The Value of Windows
If the value of the home improvement is measured by gratification, there’s nothing more fulfilling than installing replacement windows. Windows provide our homes with light, warmth and beauty. They make us feel less confined, even in a small room. A window is like a small portal to the outside world that allows light, air, sound and beauty to pass through.
What Daily Light Can Do for You
Before deciding how to prioritize your home improvement projects, think about what natural light can do for you. Natural light has an extraordinary effect on mental health, boosting your emotional and mental well-being. A 1984 study showed that patients who had large windows overlooking nature recovered much faster from surgery than those who didn’t have access to natural light. Modern studies show that exposure to natural light can even slow neuron response to pain receptors.
Increased Happiness and Productivity
Many new office complexes prioritize natural lighting because studies show that employees are happier and more productive when there’s natural light present. Natural light stimulates energy, positivity and mental clarity. The same philosophy applies to your home. Expanding a small kitchen window into a larger window is an investment, not only for your home but for your well-being. Natural light boosts the production of vitamin D, which decreases feelings of depression by releasing a natural antidepressant and mood enhancer called serotonin. With large windows, sunlight pours in and allows you to appreciate all the benefits of natural light.
A Wise Investment
According to ISoldMyHouse.com, investing $10,000 in new windows can bump up the asking price on a house to about $8,500, which is an 85 percent ROI. Not to mention, natural lighting is one of the easiest ways to reduce electricity usage in your home, reducing your monthly electric bill. Enlarging your windows allows you to enjoy beautiful lighting while saving you money. Modern, energy-efficient windows are more resourceful than ever, paying for themselves through lower heating and cooling costs.
Storm Window Benefits
Adding storm windows can reduce air and water leakage, which will protect your family and possessions in the long run. They also reduce exterior sound, so if you live in an active, noisy neighborhood, storm windows will benefit you. Modern windows can be purchased with tinted glass to reduce UV exposure, protecting your home’s interior from sun damage and overexposure.
Safety and Security
Preparing yourself and your home for adverse situations is the best line of defense against intruders. Older windows can be easily unlocked and lack security features, making it easier for someone to break into your home. Susceptibilities, like thin glass or defective locks, put your family at risk. New advancements in technology have produced windows that are more secure than ever. Advanced locking features offer extra safety from trespassers and bring you peace of mind, whether you’re at home or away.
Keep the Weather Outside
Inefficient windows can leak and allow water to seep into your house, which is a leading cause of mold and mildew in homes. For homeowners who live in hurricane-prone cities, like Jacksonville, Florida, having strong weather-resistant windows can save your home, your loved ones and the valuable possessions inside your home. Strong winds during hurricanes, tornadoes or storms can shatter older windows and cause severe damage to your home.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics may be low on your list of reasons to invest in replacement windows, but replacement windows are some of the most important aspects of improving the outward attractiveness of your home. Your eyes are instinctively drawn to the windows of a building when you look at it. Modern windows can greatly enhance the curb appeal of your home and increase your property’s value. If you’re undertaking a significant renovation and making other exterior improvements, like replacing your roof, it doesn’t make sense to skip replacing your visibly outdated 15-year-old windows. If you’re making upgrades in preparation to sell your home, new windows will do wonders for your resale value.
Protect Your Biggest Investment
Since your home is probably your biggest investment and is an important part of your life, replacing old windows should be at the top of your list of projects if you want to increase your home’s value. This wise investment will keep your family and possessions safe, reduce your energy costs, allow you to enjoy the beauty of the landscape surrounding your home and greatly improve your health and happiness.