Should Windows Be Replaced Before Putting Your Home on the Market?

Oct 12, 2022

If you’re deciding on whether to replace your windows before selling your home, you may be interested to know 90% of home buyers consider energy-efficient windows a desirable home feature, according to a recent National Association of Home Builders survey. Scott Cline, J&B Construction owner, offers the following ideas on why it is appropriate to replace your windows prior to listing the home for sale.

Windows and their Significance During the Home Buying Process

Drafty, dated windows tend to not only discourage potential home buyers who are looking for a move-in ready home, but they could even negatively impact your home’s listing price, according to Zillow.com. “Replacing your home’s windows will not only help attract potential home buyers but will also improve the home’s property value,” Scott said. The ROI factor for a home window replacement project generally falls between 71% to 78%, according to remodelingcosts.org.

Evaluate the Condition of Your Existing Windows

When assessing the condition of your home’s existing windows, it’s important to first examine their operability. “Can you open and close all your windows smoothly and with minimal effort? If not, sometimes cleaning or minor maintenance is in order, however, if neither improves their functionality, then window replacement may be necessary,” said Scott.

Another key indicator that window replacement is needed involves drafts. “If you determine your windows are to blame for drafts you feel within your home, it means it is not properly insulated, which will be reflected in uncomfortable indoor air temperatures and high energy bills,” he said. Other signs that window replacement is recommended include warping or damage to the frame, sashes or locking mechanisms as well as the regular presence of condensation that forms in between the panes of glass. The age of the windows can also serve as a rule of thumb. “If your windows are between 15 and 25 years old or older, replacement is typically advised,” Scott said.

New Windows Improve Energy Efficiency, Soundproofing, and Curb Appeal

Today’s home buyers value energy efficiency and drafty windows are the antithesis of that. To be more specific, 56% of home buyers ranked energy efficiency as extremely or very important, according to the Zillow Group Report. “When a potential home buyer learns a home’s windows are new and energy efficient, it becomes a key selling point, because it’s not a project they’ll have to tackle after purchasing the home,” he said.

Soundproofing is another benefit of new windows, which is particularly helpful if a home is near a busy intersection, railroad tracks, or a school zone for example. “Modern double-pane and triple-pane windows are exceptionally effective at minimizing noise from the outside, helping keep the home’s indoor environment peaceful and quiet,” Scott said. “Moreover, new windows instantly improve a home’s curb appeal, as it helps modernize the home’s exterior, which will be noticed whether you’re viewing the home online or in-person.”

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Enjoy Peace Of Mind

The only complaint I have is when I have J&B do my roof in another 30 years or so, is Dave their sales man (a great guy) would not guaranty I could get the same great crew I had this time. They did a fantastic job. Much better than the last roofing company did. A nice bunch of guys. Did a very nice job cleaning up. I'd give them 10 stars but 5 is the limit. If you need a roof done this is the company you want to do it. One more point I need to make. The guys that did the chimney flashing are artists. I went up on the roof when they were done and was very pleased with not only the roofing job but the sculptured sheet metal work. It's kind of a shame it's on the roof and not hanging on the family room wall :). You get the point. Hire em. You'll like em.

Dave H

We live in a historic designated neighborhood and recently had our 30 year wood shingle roof replaced with another wood roof and new gutters. From Day 1 of the project to the final day, the entire team was responsive, professional, and very competent. When some minor changes were proposed by us they quickly and effortlessly complied. After going through this experience with J&B, I would highly recommend them to anyone considering a roof and gutter replacement, whether it be a simple or complicated project.

John Lamb

J & B did an amazing job from start to finish. The initial meeting at my home took place exactly at the time that was agreed upon and Scott was thorough in his explanations and transparent about costs. When the time came to begin the project, the team that showed up was friendly, professional and timely in getting the project done. The cleanup afterward was such that it looked like they hadn't been there at all. The roof looks great, there were no surprises and Scott came by to inspect the work and explain the warranty upon job completion. I would highly recommend them.

Kenneth Simons

My neighbor had their roof replaced and I was really impressed with the speed, carefulness and quality of the work I saw. Asked her for her experience and she told me she would highly recommend J & B. I called Scott to set an appointment. He showed up on time and was very thorough in his assessment, also letting me know about some other issues and advise on where to get help. J & B is a fantastic company to deal with - their people are incredibly careful about the work they do, clean up and leave the property in the same condition as when they started, were careful about plants and the house, and work very efficiently. The office staff is great about following up, checking in and very responsive to anything that comes up. I was happy with the price charged. If you are looking to replace your roof, you should be calling J & B to get the job done.

David W.

We had work done by the J&B team at a commercial property and were very pleased with the whole process. Their estimator met us onsite and communicated with us every step of the way. They went over the scope in detail and the work performed exceeded what we were expecting. They found some additional concerns during the installation that were quickly addressed and communicated to us and to our surprise, there was not an additional charge. Our tenants reached out to share how respectful the employees were during the installation and how clean everything was left afterwards. As the project was wrapped up, we were walked through the completion paperwork and provided the warranty information. Very impressed with the professionalism of this company and would not hesitate to refer their services or use them again in the future.

Jessie C.