Can’t say I agree on always going mid-range with windows. In my experience, higher-end windows can add real value, especially if you’re planning to sell or rent out. Sometimes the upfront cost pays off in resale or lower maintenance down the line. Just depends on your market and goals.
Sometimes the upfront cost pays off in resale or lower maintenance down the line. Just depends on your market and goals.
That’s fair, but how much do you factor in energy efficiency when picking windows? I’ve seen some high-end options that look great but aren’t much better than mid-range for insulation. If you’re bumping out or building up, does the window choice change based on how much new exterior wall you’re adding? Curious if anyone’s run into issues with code or heat loss after expanding.
Energy efficiency’s a big one for me, especially with more wall going in. Here’s what I’ve learned:
- More exterior wall = more spots to lose heat, so window choice matters even more.
- High-end windows sometimes just mean fancier hardware, not better insulation. Check U-factor and SHGC, not just price.
- Bumping out, I ran into code upgrades—needed higher R-value all around, including windows. Inspectors flagged it.
- If you’re in a cold climate, don’t cheap out on glass. I did once—regretted it every winter.
Honestly, I’d rather put money into solid mid-range windows with good ratings than pay extra for a name.
High-end windows sometimes just mean fancier hardware, not better insulation. Check U-factor and SHGC, not just price.
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve seen “premium” windows that leak heat like a sieve. Numbers don’t lie—U-factor is king. Also, bump-outs are code-trigger central... inspectors love their clipboards when you add exterior walls.
inspectors love their clipboards when you add exterior walls.
That’s what worries me about bump-outs—seems like every inch triggers some new code or permit fee. Is it really that much more hassle than building up? I keep hearing “just go up, less foundation work,” but then you’re messing with the roof and stairs. Anyone actually save money with a bump-out, or does it all get eaten up by red tape and insulation upgrades?
