new windows in an old home? is it really worth it?

the lack of insulation is probably a bigger is than the windows - look into the cost of getting loose insulation blown into the walls - compare that to the cost of replacing the windows (including installation costs).

Without knowing what tyoe of heat you have, I can't project savings - talk to an insulation guy or the utility company for estimates?

The wall insulation would be the primary help in savings - windows another 10% - AFTER you get the walls insulated. compare the projected savings over a year and see how many years it would take to recoup your costs.

I;m thinking the insulation would pay for itself in a few yrs - there may also be federal tax credits for some of that cost also

I have a 100+ yr old house too - it was insulated, but the windows were in bad shape - I only owned the house a few months before I replaced them, so I'm not sure how much I saved, but it's comfortable inside - I have oil, hot water radiator heat - only 1000 sq ft

It's impossible to say how much you would save because we know absolutely nothing about your existing windows. We don't know how cold it is outside or how warm you like to keep it inside.

Getting new windows would certainly help with the energy efficiency though. After fixing potential air leaks and making sure your attic and basement (if applicable) are insulated, the windows would probably rank next.

Put one hand on a window and the other hand on the adjacent wall. The difference in temperature will illustrate the insulative parity between them.

Don't forget to check with your local utilities to see if they have any programs that might help underwrite making your home more efficient. Often they will send someone out free of charge to do an analysis of your home.

Sometimes window contractors will know about these programs also since they help to sell their products and services.

p.s. You might want to consider closing off part of the house in the winter if you want to save money. 3000 sq.ft is a big house.

Yes they definitely work, I would suggest you to think about purchasing a wood stove, for the size of your home it will probable cost you around $3K you need either a big one or 2 small ones, let me tell you it is work spending the money you buy 2 cords of wood for the winter and it pays itself within 2 yrs. The cost of the wood will be the cost of heating your home for the whole winter. You will save a lot, also spend some money in new insulation for the house, and if you have basements maybe you should also think about new carpet and basement insulation.

Good Luck

As well as wisegirls advice, window insulation in the winter also helps. I also live in a very old house and have to close up the windows to keep the utility bill down. We have a fireplace and use it as much as we can to keep any plug in heaters from using too much electricity. Our house is very well insulated, but every little bit helps. If you have wood flooring...throw scatter rugs down as this helps with the heat as well. Good Luck!!

It depens on the condition of the house. If you have a house that is out of shape and need other rapair other than the windows dont was'te your money on the windows. but if that the only thing you need are new window cosmeticly they make a house look totaly different not only will they save you money in electric bills by kepping your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer because new window are a great insulater, and the will raise the value of your home. and they look great.

Yes, they help. The work is not cheap, however. Get estimates.