Although your home cannot speak to you directly about what it needs, there are other ways it shows you that it is having difficulties. For instance, take a look at the windows. What do you see? While windows cannot last forever, they should be able to last at least 20 years, if not longer, with routine maintenance. However, if you start to see signs of aging and other issues, it could mean that there is more going on. It could mean that it is time to replace those windows.
Today, we’re going to answer the question, “When is it time to replace my windows?” We’ll look at how to tell, so you know what to look for and when to act. Let’s get started.
Signs it’s Time To Replace The Windows in Your Home
The tell-tale signs it is time to replace your windows are:
Damaged, Broken, or Warped
Even the best quality window frames will begin to decay if the window they house is damaged. Be sure to do routine maintenance and repairs on the weatherstripping and hardware around the windows to prolong their life. However, if there are elements that are damaged, or if you see warped woodwork or a ripped window sash, then it is time to replace the window.
Your Energy Bill is Sky-High
Windows both let in light and heat. This is obvious. What might not be obvious, however, is just how much a drafty window or two can affect your utility bill. According to Energy.gov, a drafty window can increase your utility bill by 10-25 percent. That’s a lot of money slipping through the window cracks!
If you want to reduce that energy bill, consider replacing your windows with more energy-efficient models. Not all windows are created equal either. The best windows will have an Energy Star designation. Be sure to speak with a trusted window contractor to find the brand that works best for your home and budget.
It’s Time For a Makeover
As you may have noticed, just as the eyes are the window to the human soul, the windows of your home are a very prominent feature—inside and out. If the windows look old, ragged, and worn, it can make an otherwise appealing house look dilapidated. If you see color fading on the outside, torn or patched screams, missing storm windows, and other damage, the quality is impacted.
If you want to upgrade your home’s appearance, one of the first things to consider is replacement windows. You can completely change the aesthetics with newer window models, let in more light, and promote personal health and wellness.
Historic Home Renovations
Do you have a historic home that hasn’t been properly preserved? Those vinyl windows probably are unappealing and detract from the overall value. Furthermore, the wrong window opens up the, well, window to damages and other structural issues. If you want to replace windows for a historical home, you are going to need to find a contractor who can install historically accurate replacements and customized framework.
Tons of Outside Noise
Windows that provide little to no soundproofing are doing you no favors. This means that either they are single pane, are not sealing properly, or they were poorly designed. If you don’t want to hear the sound of your neighbors or the passing cars, you might want to consider double- or triple-pane windows.
You Feel a Draft
Do you feel a breeze even when the windows are cold? Having trouble regulating the temperature of a room? Poor insulation and faulty seals will cause your HVAC system to work much harder than its has to, and it will make your house feel uncomfortable. Replacing a window will make regulating room temperatures much easier.
You Have Difficulty Locking, Opening, and Closing Windows
Poor operation leads to poor safety. Additionally, if windows weren’t properly installed, they might have balance issues. Either way, a window that is difficult to close, doesn’t lock, or can be jiggled and opened is a threat to your safety. You want windows that lock securely and can be opened with ease in the event there is a fire or something else.
There’s Condensation
Are your home’s weeping windows using up more tissues than you do? Condensation can mean a lot of things, but most of all, it is a risk of water damage and mold growth. It also means seals have failed and moisture is finding its way into your home through the window. It will have to be replaced.
Also, if you are noticing that there is moisture between two panes of glass, you might have a problem. Double-glazed windows have a thin layer of krypton or argon gas to add insulation, but when the airtight seal starts to fail, it can cause moisture to build up between the two outer panes. Since cracked seals can be difficult to repair, it is best to replace your windows.
Two Words: Single Pane
Single pane windows are horrendous in terms of soundproofing or adding insulation. They also lack energy efficiency. While single pane windows are great for adding windows on a budget, they are not going to serve you in the long run. It is best to replace your single pane windows, especially if you find that your heating and cooling bill is outrageous. Single pane windows are best replaced with double- or triple-glazed windows. It might seem like a huge investment, but it will be worth it in the long run.
Conclusion
So, how do you know when it is time to replace your windows? When they show any of the above mentioned signs! Any decay, moisture, mold, or difficulties in or around the window is a sure sign that it is failing. It is also wise to replace windows when your home is in need of a face lift or when you plan on remodeling.
Now that you know, you might have realized that some windows in your home need to be replaced. We can help! Get in touch with us by filling out the contact form. We’re more than happy to answer any questions you have about replacing windows.
