What you need to consider when replacing windows

Anyone who wants to save energy in their home often decides to replace windows: Depending on how old the models being replaced are, house and apartment owners can save a lot of heating energy and thus reduce costs. The state and federal government also strongly support such renovation measures: “Up to more than half of the costs can currently be recovered through subsidies,” says Gerhard Dell, managing director of the Upper Austria Energy Saving Association.

Two technical indicators are essential:

• The U-value describes how much energy penetrates to the outside through the window – both through the panes and the frame. The funding is also tied to it. A U-value of a maximum of 1.1 is required. “A modern window with triple glazing certainly has a value below 1. The lower, the better,” advises the expert.
• However, it should be as high as possible G value be. It describes how much heat enters the building through the window. “This is important in winter to keep heating requirements lower,” explains Dell. A very good G value of 0.5 would mean that 50 percent of the heat comes from the outside to the inside. “Many people believe that, given the hot summers, a lower value would be better so that the heat stays out. But this can be controlled by shading – blinds, eaves or plants – so that the sun’s heat can still be used in winter,” says Dell.

But the best window is of no use if it is installed incorrectly, says the expert: “It’s a job for professionals.” Anyone who has found the right windows – i.e. with a U-value of 1.1 or less – can receive high subsidies. In addition to support for building loans, the state of Upper Austria also offers direct grants: 15 percent of the total costs up to a maximum of 15,000 euros, i.e. up to 2,250 euros. “With state funding, it doesn’t matter how many windows I replace,” says Dell.

The situation is different with federal funding, which was significantly increased at the beginning of the year: at least 75 percent of the windows must be replaced. A maximum of 50 percent of the total costs will be reimbursed and a maximum of 9,000 euros in funding will be paid out. “If you comply with all state and federal regulations and replace windows for 18,000 euros, you can ideally claim 11,250 euros in funding,” calculates Gerhard Dell.

The winter garden often raises questions – many are unsure whether window replacement is supported there too. “Due to the large window areas, this is often an important question. The decisive factor here is whether the winter garden is heated and is directly connected to the living rooms – if so, it is part of the living space and is therefore eligible for funding,” explains Dell.

Increased inquiries

Since the federal funding was increased, there has been an increase in inquiries about window replacement, reports Stefan Wagner, sales manager of the Innviertel window and door manufacturer Josko, from practice: “This has made it increasingly financially attractive for young families to convert an existing house .”

In addition to energy efficiency, many customers would like more light in the house – on the one hand through larger window openings and on the other hand through slimmer frames. Many renovations require more classic window shapes – albeit with an updated design.

The first question many customers ask is how much dirt the window replacement causes, says Wagner: “We can reassure you about that. Simply replacing the window can be done within a few days and the interior is protected from dirt and dust.” The craftsmen work their way room by room, so the house or apartment is habitable throughout.

• Anyone who needs support with technical questions and navigating through the funding jungle can contact the ” WeBuild” energy saving fair from March 8th to 10th at numerous companies and on Advisory stand of the Energy Saving Association inform.

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