Energy Saving Windows

The windows that are existing now in the condo units are single pane and a cheap grade of plexiglass. This means that the energy waste(winter and summer) is incredible. Changing to a dbl pane(window upgrades) would mean a slight change in the outside appearance of the units only in that the window replacements would not now be FLUSH with the side of the outside wall but would extend away from the wall about 1/4". Is this very necessary change (in the interest of both security and energy) a MUST or does the Condo Organization have the right to stick with absolutely no change?

Norman,

Is it necessary? Probably not if you don't want each homeowner to save money on the energy going out the "window". Where is there security with plexiglass. It can be broken as easily as glass. If the appearance is negligible, why not?

Have an energy efficiency test done on a couple of the apartments. Most electric companies will do this for free. They will tell you the savings on heat and air conditioning as it relates to the efficiency of the windows.

This is a question all the owners have to get together on. If the window replacement is not reserved for in your budget, it may take a special assessment.

The condo association may have to change the windows. Ask the BOD if there is a reason. It may be that the insurance company wants a better window protecting the building contents.