Here at US Home Improvement, we spend a lot of time concentrating on replacement windows in the residential setting: our homes. However, we spend just as much time — if not more! — in our workplaces as our residences. Do home replacement windows have a place in the business world?
The answer is absolutely yes! There are a number of things to consider when pondering the role of replacement windows and doors in the business world. These factors include:
The increasing number of small, home-based businesses
Working from home, either under the auspices of a traditional employer, or as an entrepreneur, is becoming increasingly popular. Over 4.2 million individuals reported having a home based business on the last US Census, and that number has been growing steadily.
All of the considerations that make home replacement windows attractive in a residential setting: energy efficiency, attractiveness, and more — become doubly so when a structure serves dual roles as a home and workplace. You’re spending more time in the building: you want it to be as comfortable, attractive and efficient as possible.
Increased profitability due to reduced heating and cooling expense
There are two ways for a business to enhance profitability: make more money or reduce expenses. You’re on your own when it comes to making more money — but replacement windows can definitely help the small business owner reduce expenses.
Replacment windows — vinyl home replacement windows, fiberglass home replacement windows, and wood replacement windows — all enhance a structure’s energy efficiency. By retaining warmed air in the winter and cooled air in the summer, replacement windows allow heating and cooling systems to run less often, saving on utility costs. This can be a considerable savings, considering the need many businesses have to keep a very comfortable environment in order to keep customers happy. You might be willing to slip on a sweater on if you’re feeling chilly — but if the public finds your store to be too cold, they won’t come back!
Public perception of a ‘green’ business
Environmental awareness is on the rise. Individuals are changing how they make choices in order to minimize their impact on the earth — and part of those changes involve the types of businesses they patronize. If you position yourself as a green business — one with a focus on earth friendly practices — you’ll be able to attract a portion of that demographic that considers environmental responsibility an imperative.
Replacement windows offer a highly visible way to demonstrate your commitment to green business. Because replacement windows are energy efficient, helping conserve heating and cooling energy and reduce fossil fuel consumption, they are favored by some environmentalists. Additionally, savvy retailers and small business owners can plan a green themed promotional event around replacement window installation, generating some positive word of mouth about your business.
Enhance a business asset
Finally, replacement windows can enhance a business asset: your structure. This won’t be true, obviously, if you rent your business space, but for those small business owners who own their buildings or work from home, installing replacement windows can raise the value of an asset. This has obvious positive ramifications on your balance sheet, and can make you more attractive to bankers, investors, and other interested parties.