One of the best things about living in South Florida is the abundant sunshine. Our homes are increasingly built to incorporate natural light and to take in all of the beauty evident just outside the door. But if you are living in a home with windows which are older, there are many good reasons to consider new windows. Here are just a few.
Benefits of New Windows
Energy Efficiency: If you have a home which is over 25 years old, or the windows have not been replaced in that same time frame – it is probably time to do so, for several reasons. First off, windows which are decades old are more likely to be experiencing drafts and a loss of their seal. This means that you may be paying more to cool your home than you have to. New windows will seal up your home again, allowing your air condition to work more efficiently.
Hurricane Codes: Due in large part to the devastation caused by Hurricane Andrew in 1992, sweeping new building codes were implemented in 1996. Since that time, several improvements have been made to the codes to increase hurricane preparedness and reduce risk of loss due to high winds and rain. Any Venice homeowner looking to replace their windows will be required to bring their home up to code, which typically indicates windows which can withstand a minimum of 140 mph winds. Upgrading your windows and adding film as you do so will significantly impact the safety and security of your home. You will also likely receive a generous discount on your homeowner’s wind insurance premium.
Changing Preferences: It seems that years ago, most homes were built to be purely functional – but not necessarily beautiful. Rooms were often small and dark, with perhaps a small window to the outside world. However, today’s homeowners – especially in the Sarasota area – prefer to see the blue sky, sunshine, beach, lake or flowers outside of their home. The trend for years has been towards wide open floor plans and more and more windows to let in the natural light. From adding sliders and French doors, to installing skylights – residents are finding that flooding their home with light and having a view to the outdoors is preferable. Here’s a Hint: Covering with a UV film can help you to avoid bleached out rugs or furniture.
Type of New Windows
The Picture Window – This classic stationary window does not open, but simply provide a view to the outside world. Because they are generally oversized, residents enjoy an unobstructed view, and are especially popular in homes which have natural features outside of the home.
The Slider – Sliding windows and doors offer the view which picture windows offer, but with the additional benefit of opening the doors and letting the fresh air in. Thus no matter the weather, you can enjoy the view. Sliding doors are most popular in areas of the home that people would be likely to walk outside, such as onto a deck, patio or lanai.
The Single or Double Hung Window – Classic single and double hung windows have come into their own, now offering a wide variety of design options both for aesthetic and practical purposes (such as easier cleaning).
If you have determined that it is time for new windows for your Venice area home, call the experts at Kingdom Restoration. We don’t see ourselves as just a construction company – we are artisans who refuse to sacrifice quality for any reason. Call us today, and find out how new windows can make your home more beautiful, energy efficient and safe.
