Windows and Doors as Appliances

When planning a home remodel, we often focus on the kitchen first since kitchen remodels generally produce high returns on investment. An important part to any kitchen remodel to consider is the appliances, since they are often the focal points of the room, and we believe in the impact they have on energy savings and the value they add to our homes and lives.

Appliances are typically limited to providing one function, whether it be storing food like a refrigerator, cooking food like a stove or microwave, washing and drying clothes like a washer/dryer, etc. But, what if there was an appliance that could provide multiple services, save you money, and add value to your life and home?

Window & Doors – Consider them a super appliance?

While windows and doors may not be what comes to mind when you think of an appliance, consider all they do for you. Windows provide natural light, natural ventilation, a connection to the outdoors and protection from the elements. Go to a room in your home that has no windows, and think about how you feel in that room. Then, consider how that room would change if there was a window or door letting in natural light and a gentle breeze. Windows and doors can have an immediate impact on the environment in our home, and on our comfort.

Advancements in technology have provided many more benefits from high performing windows and doors:

• Energy & Cost Savings
• Improved Comfort
• Less Condensation
• Increased Light & View
• Reduced Fading
• Lower HVAC equipment Costs

When shopping for windows and doors, you should keep in mind all of the services and value they provide, as well as the potential in energy savings. The chart below shows the percent of energy costs a home typically dedicates to each service.

As you can see, heating, cooling and lighting make up nearly 60% of home energy costs. New windows and doors can help you reduce these costs.

Windows and doors are rated on their ability to reduce heating and cooling energy costs (the highest of energy home consumption costs), and the amount of light they let into your home. Just as ENERGY STAR has great guidelines on traditional home appliances, there are also helpful guidelines on windows and doors.

With their ability to increase lighting and room comfort, lower energy costs, and provide access to fresh air, no other appliance can affect our lifestyles and energy savings as much as windows and doors. We should consider them a new “Super Appliance” category.

As you can see, heating, cooling and lighting make up nearly 60% of home energy costs. New windows and doors can help you reduce these costs.

Windows and doors are rated on their ability to reduce heating and cooling energy costs (the highest of energy home consumption costs), and the amount of light they let into your home. Just as ENERGY STAR has great guidelines on traditional home appliances, there are also helpful guidelines on windows and doors.

With their ability to increase lighting and room comfort, lower energy costs, and provide access to fresh air, no other appliance can affect our lifestyles and energy savings as much as windows and doors. We should consider them a new “Super Appliance” category.