Just want to say kudos to everyone in this thread. The amount of detail here is incredible. Definitely deserving of being a sticky. Thanks all! 🙌
One more financial tidbit: there is a federal tax credit for energy-efficient windows (up to $600) as of recent legislation. Impact windows with Low-E definitely qualify since they meet ENERGY STAR requirements in our region. I claimed it on my taxes this year – it’s not huge, but $600 back is better than nothing. Keep your receipts and the manufacturer’s certification statement in case you need documentation for that credit.
If you’re wondering about timing, note that window prices did jump in the last few years (supply chain, material costs, etc.). My uncle got his windows done in 2018 for like half of what it costs now. So don’t be too shocked at today’s prices compared to older anecdotes – it’s a different market. Unfortunately, I doubt prices will drop significantly, but hopefully they stabilize. If anything, do it sooner rather than later, as inflation might make it even pricier down the road.
I’ll be the outlier who used a PACE program (Ygrene) to finance my impact windows. It worked out fine for me because I plan to pay it off when I sell the house (or before if I can). The interest rate is high (~7%), but I couldn’t get a traditional loan at the time. My yearly property tax bill includes the payments. It’s true what others said – you have to be careful and understand the terms – but it can be a useful tool in some cases. I made sure the contractor was approved by the program and everything was permitted properly. Not saying it’s the best way, but it is an option that did get me my windows when I otherwise might not have been able to afford them upfront.
Our new impact windows got their first real test during Hurricane Ian (2022). Even though Ian didn’t hit Tampa directly, we had strong winds and some debris. The windows held up perfectly – no leaks, no flexing. Meanwhile, a neighbor’s house with older windows had some water intrusion. That made me extra glad we invested in the upgrade.
Replacing my windows was probably the best home improvement decision I’ve made. It’s one of those things you feel every day (unlike, say, a fancy appliance or something). Yes, it was expensive, but I’d do it again without question.
Do these new vinyl windows require any special maintenance? For example, should I periodically lubricate the tracks or anything? Or are they pretty much set-and-forget? (Just want to make sure I take care of my investment.)
@cexplorer35 – Generally low maintenance. Vinyl windows won’t need painting or anything. Just keep the tracks clean of debris and maybe a light spray of silicone lubricant on moving parts once a year if they start to stick. And don’t use pressure washers directly on the window seals or frames (it can damage seals). Otherwise, just normal cleaning of the glass and frames with mild soap/water is all they need. Pretty easy upkeep!
Alright, time for me to start calling some window companies! 😃 Thanks to everyone here, I feel well-prepared. Wish me luck!
First quote in: got one from XYZ Windows - 10 windows (non-impact) for $6,500. Sounds in line with what I expected thanks to this thread. Scheduling two more quotes next week. Feeling a lot more confident now.