Replacing your Howard County rental property’s windows is probably not something you think about too often.
However, as with everything property related, windows are bound to wear down and need replacement at one point or another.
There is a lot that goes into replacing your Howard County rental’s windows. And one of the most important things to know is when to replace them. Do it too early and it becomes a poor financial decision. However, do it too late and you could end up with problems bigger than just outdated windows that harm your property’s curb appeal and possibly market value.
Today we are going to look at some of the most important factors that play into knowing when to replace the windows in your rental property so that you get the most bang for your buck and benefit financially in the long run.
Factors Playing a Role in Window Replacement
It should come as no surprise that different climates will have varying effects on your rental property’s windows. This means that when you shop for windows you are going to have to take into consideration the following factors:
- Fault line regions. If your rental property is in a state that experiences frequent earthquakes, you might consider getting your property’s windows heat tempered to prevent shattering. Treated with special chemicals during manufacturing, tempered windows will be extra strong.
- High temperature regions. Saving money on your rental’s energy bill during the hot summer months is a major concern for some property owners and their tenants. By upgrading to energy efficient windows, you can help significantly lower your rental property’s energy output. If your property is in a high heat region, consider looking for windows with the official ENERGY STAR seal.
- Seaside properties. Sea air, humidity, high winds, and dramatic temperature changes can damage your windows over time. For many Maryland rentals near the ocean, this is a real concern that you should factor into your window replacement decisions.
- Stormy regions. Your property may have to fight hurricanes, tornadoes, and other extreme weather if in a region with lots of storm activity. The high winds, rain, and temperature-related pressure changes that come with these types of storms are sure to make your windows work overtime. Try choosing window replacements that can withstand all of this so they can survive without damage even at the height of the monsoon season.
- Cold temperature regions. Properties in Howard County, as well as nearby Maryland regions, are likely to experience frosty cold winters that can lead to wear and tear on windows. Again, choosing sufficiently insulated windows will help prevent the cold air from seeping into your property and raising the heating bill on your tenant.
The Right Time to Replace Your Windows
In addition to the above-mentioned weather related factors that will affect the longevity of your rental’s windows, there are other common signs that will alert you that window replacement time is looming.
Your Windows are Outdated
Chances are, if your Howard County property’s windows are a decade or older, their style is simply not “in style” anymore. And, while many people may not realize this, boosting your property’s exterior curb appeal is very important when it comes to placing quality, high paying tenants in your rental.
Windows can have a dramatic effect on the overall look of your rental property. The key is to take a step back from your investment property, look at it in its entirety, and see if it’s outdated screens or storm windows make your rental appear old, drab, or unappealing in any way.
Here are some excellent ways to spice up your rental property’s windows in terms of design:
- Replace fixed sash windows with windows that open
- Choose larger windows to allow more light in and make the home appear larger from the outside
- Pick a horizontal slider window as an inexpensive option with functionality
- Select a traditional single or double hung window for a contemporary look that has functionality and a fixed upper sash
You Want to Lower the Energy Bill
More and more tenants today are looking to lease a rental that is environmentally friendly. Luckily, you have the option to include energy efficient windows in your rental property if this is of interest to you.
If you have noticed that your tenants have been complaining of increasing energy bills, this is a definite sign that window replacement time is quickly approaching. Your tenants do not want to make high bill payments each month, but you can help soothe this concern by replacing your property’s windows.
In fact, by installing ENERGY STAR certified windows in your Howard County rental home, you can reduce your rental property’s energy bill by as much as 20% annually.
What’s more, this green approach to your window replacements can be utilized as a big selling point when it comes time to lease your home to new tenants. Not only do ENERGY STAR certified windows reduce your impact on the earth, they look fresh and modern and help lower energy bills, all of which are key characteristics of a quality rental home.
The Windows Are Damaged
If you notice your rental’s windows are damaged, it is best to replace them rather than repair them to avoid further damage in the future. Temporarily repairing your windows only provides a short-term fix that will lead to window placement at some point anyway.
Here are some surefire signs your rental’s windows have been damaged:
- Condensation noticeable on inside of window. This means your rental is not ventilating correctly or there is a high level of moisture inside the rental property. This can lead to mold and mildew thus causing more damage to the window.
- Condensation in between the panes is present. This is a sign that the double pane widow glass is not doing its job right. Instead of blocking outside moisture, it is trapping the moisture and thus, needs to be replaced.
- The window is difficult to open and close. If your rental’s windows are becoming increasingly difficult to open and close, you might have an issue with the surrounding wood swelling and trapping the window in place. On the other hand, if your windows have springs that aid in opening and closing, and they have worn down, you will experience trouble with your window’s functionality.
- You notice water leaks near the base of the window. Water leaking inside of your rental through a window tells you that the window is not closing properly and is not sealing shut. This is especially true if you notice water in the window’s track after heavy rainfall.
- You feel a draft. Noticing a draft when nearby your rental’s window indicates that air is literally moving from the outside, through the glass, and into your rental. To fix this, upgrade to an ENERGY STAR rated window that is designed to stop air on the outside from coming inside.
In the end, your windows play an important role in the success of your Howard County rental property. In terms of visual appeal, energy efficiency, and functionality, windows can make or break a tenant’s willingness to lease your rental.
If you notice any of the above-mentioned signs that your rental’s windows need replacing, try making that a priority on your rental home maintenance list for the year. Though windows can be expensive to replace, they also add value to your rental that can boost your annual positive cash flow.
If you live in the Howard County region and are interested in finding an experienced property management company to help you manage your rental property, contact Bay Management Group today and see how we can help.
Not only are we knowledgeable in things such as boosting your rental’s curb appeal through window replacement, we can help with tenant placement, rent collection, inspections, and maintenance requests, plus much more.
So give us a call today and rest easy knowing that you are getting the highest rental yield possible and that your investment property is in good hands.
