Do New Windows Increase Home Value? Understand the ROI of Window Replacement

One of the most important things to consider when deciding on a home improvement is the ROI you can expect—especially when you invest in a major upgrade like new windows. So, do new windows increase your home’s value? In short, replacing old windows will increase property value. You can expect an ROI of between 70% and 85% on average, but understanding how and by how much can help you decide if this is the right place to invest your money. 

The actual ROI and whether or not the project is worth the money depends on the type of window, the age of your existing windows, the materials you choose for the new ones, and when you plan on selling your home. Before replacing your windows, learn what you need to know about how much new windows increase home values.

Factors that Influence New Window Value 

New windows add so much value for a few reasons. Most notably, they boost curb appeal, but there are other things to consider before deciding if replacing windows increases home value enough to be worthwhile for your home.

Improved Curb Appeal

The most obvious bump in home value from new windows comes from the improved curb appeal. When a prospective buyer pulls up to your home, they’ll immediately form an opinion of your house, which can color the rest of their walkthrough positively or negatively.

If you have old windows that are faded, chipped, cracked, or dirty, chances are that the initial impression will be negative. Even if the inside of your home is updated and clean, poor window condition can cause a buyer to want to pay less.

On the other hand, newer windows are more likely to give a good first impression, making your home look clean, bright, and more attractive, meaning good news when it comes to that buyer making an offer. Larger window sizes can also make your home look more open and inviting, adding more natural light to your interior.

Long-Term Value

If a potential buyer knows your windows are energy-efficient and have years of life left in them, they’ll understand that window replacement won’t be an expense they have to worry about right after they close. Many buyers will be willing to pay more for that peace of mind.

Buyers should also understand that new windows are less likely to leak and cause expensive water damage, provided they’re installed by a professional window replacement contractor. Brand-new window seals and caulking can last for years before needing replacement to stand up to the elements.

Increased Security

As locking mechanisms and frame materials degrade over time, the overall security of aging windows declines, too. Modern windows are also often built with increased security measures, like double-pane or triple-pane glass that’s harder to break through, window security film, and stronger frame materials made with reinforcements.

The increased security of new windows will provide you with peace of mind and lead buyers to value your property more.

Better Energy Efficiency

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, windows are responsible for up to 30% of the temperature loss in your home. The insulating value of windows declines over time as seals break, weatherstripping gets worn down, and frame materials shift to create air gaps.

Installing new windows can boost your home’s efficiency and substantially lower your heating and cooling bills. Plus, investing in new Energy Star-rated windows can decrease energy bills by up to 13%.

You’ll save money on heating and cooling, all while improving the comfort of your living space. Buyers will see more value in your home overall due to those benefits.

Greater Functionality

Newer windows often have better functionality than older models, especially if you choose replacement windows with beneficial add-ons. Below are some of the functional benefits you can enjoy with new windows.

• Easier cleaning process: New windows sometimes have tilt-in panes that can make cleaning the outside of the window from inside your home a breeze.

• Better airflow: Upgrading from a single-pane window or fixed window to a double-pane window gives you more options for ventilation.

• Reduced heat loss: Window manufacturers can add things like window tinting, low-emissivity (low-E) glass, and triple-pane glass that help keep the outdoor temperatures where they belong.

• Reduced UV radiation: New windows sometimes include UV-blocking coatings, which can reduce fading on flooring and furniture over time from sun exposure.

These perks add personal value while you live in your home, and buyers might be willing to pay more for those same benefits.

Quieter Home Interior

New windows make your living space quieter because of new seals that block sound and because most modern windows have double-pane or triple-pane glass. Multiple layers of vacuum-sealed glass block noise and provide a quieter interior, benefitting both you and a buyer, especially if you live near heavily trafficked roads, train tracks, commercial areas, or airports.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Window installations aren’t for the weekend DIYer. Even if you enjoy carpentry and working with your hands to knock out a Saturday project, windows are heavy, must be measured correctly, are costly, and require some great geometry skills for a proper installation. If you botch installing windows yourself, you could detract from the ROI you’d otherwise get. Not to mention, doing it yourself can void window warranties that might appeal to potential buyers. 

Always work with a professional window installation company near you for the best recommendations, installation best practices, and highest chance of getting the most out of your increased home value. 

Estimating How Much New Windows Increase Home Value 

The property value increase you see from new windows depends on many factors, including the frame material and longevity, the quality of the glass, add-ons like low-E glass and tinting, the number of window panes, and more. Here’s how you can estimate the added value of new windows on your home:

• Look at the market demand: Compare homes of similar sizes and qualities to see if new windows in your area make a difference in the total cost of homes. 

• Consider the frame material: Some materials yield a higher ROI than others. For example, wooden frames have a shorter lifespan and require more maintenance than vinyl windows, which may result in a lower ROI.

• Choose the right glass: Higher-quality glass, like low-E or tinted glass, means better insulation and a higher ROI.

• Consider the number of window panes: Single-pane windows are less efficient and cost less than double- or triple-pane windows, but the higher the number of panes, the higher the energy efficiency and value of your investment. 

• Get a home appraisal: When in doubt, trust a reputable property appraiser near you to give you the down-low on how much new windows can increase your home’s value.

Cost to Install New Windows

Window installation costs range from $3,400 to $11,800 on average—or around $750 per window. Vinyl windows cost the least, while fiberglass windows cost the most upfront. However, in the long run, aluminum windows tend to cost the least, while wood windows cost the most when you factor in window lifespans and maintenance expenses. Since you’ll see an ROI of around 70% to 85%, you’re looking at a return of anywhere between $2,400 and $10,000 all in. 

Is Installing New Windows Worth It?

Still wondering will new windows increase home values enough to be worth it? Overall, installing new windows is worth it. With such a high ROI of up to 85%, this investment is one of the best home improvement upgrades you can make if you want the biggest bang for your buck. At the same time, it’s not for everyone. Here’s what to keep in mind before you make a decision.

How Angi Gets Its ROI Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners maximize the value of their investments, we gather ROI data from reputable sources, including industry reports, real estate studies, and interviews with market experts. We calculate the average resale value for projects by multiplying the ROI against the project’s average cost according to our cost data, which is sourced from thousands of real Angi customers. 

Want to help us improve our data? Send us a recent project quote or home appraisal value to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.