Is it time to replace your windows? How can you tell? Read on to learn the top signs you need new windows.
Eyes may be the windows to the soul but did you know that your actual windows could be costing you more than 25 percent of your energy bill every single month?
New windows may seem like a major project that you don’t want to get involved in, but the benefits are major. It’s not just about saving money, the right windows can transform your home and let you enjoy it even more.
But how do you know if it’s time for new windows? Obviously, if you’ve got a shattered window you’re going to need a new one, but what about the other signs that it’s time for new glass?
Keep reading and learn about the most common signs that it’s time for replacement windows.
Signs It’s Time for New Windows
We’ve got a few telltale signs here that your windows are done. Windows should last between 26 and 50 years, but that’s not always the case. When we first got into the business, we worked on buildings that were 50-100 years old; now-a-days, we work on buildings that are between 10-15 years old because the quality of the window material and installation has declined. Keep that in mind!
Many factors, including extreme temperature changes every year, major storms, and ever-aging older homes, could mean that your windows need changing much earlier.
There are plenty of reasons why it’s time to replace them, but here are the top signs that are the most common.
1. Too Much Noise
Birds chirping, gentle rain, and the wind blowing through fall leaves. These are soothing sounds that most people enjoy hearing from inside their home.
Loud trucks, people talking too loud, and construction. These are frustrating noises that most people hate hearing while they’re trying to relax.
If you’ve got a lot of outside noise coming in, don’t worry, you don’t need to move, you may just need new windows. Newer windows with thicker panes and professional installation can drastically reduce outside noise, giving you the peace and quiet you deserve.
2. Avoiding the Draft
If you’ve walked by your windows and felt a breeze, that is a definite sign that something is wrong.
Windows allowing in outside air means that you are paying more on your monthly bills for your cooling and heating system to combat the outside temperature. This doesn’t just cost more on your bill but it also will cost more later on when your AC unit breaks down from running too hard constantly.
Feel for drafts on all your windows and consider replacing all of them at once even if only two or three are feeling drafty. It’s only a matter of time before the other windows that are the same age start letting in the breeze, as well.
3. Fix Your Frames
There’s more to windows than just the glass. The frames that support the glass are just as important and can also experience problems that need immediate attention.
If you suspect that it’s time for replacements, feel around the frames of your windows. Do they feel soft? Are they showing signs of discoloration or mold? If the answer is yes, it means they will need replacing as soon as possible.
Old wood will give away in time and newer windows and frames are made out of materials that will last longer and are much more friendly to your home’s life.
4. It Won’t Budge
One of the best things about nice weather is opening your windows and letting that amazing breeze in. It gives your cooling units a break and is much friendlier to the environment.
What do you do if your windows just refuse to open? There are some things you can do to make it easier, but if it’s an ongoing issue then it may be time to replace them.
The same rule applies if they have trouble locking. A window that won’t lock is just inviting trouble. Not only will new windows have working locks, but many new windows are much more secure without sacrificing curb appeal.
5. Sweating and Moisture
It’s a humid day and you know this without stepping outside because your windows are covered with a layer of condensation.
This is an annoying problem that points to bad windows that aren’t doing their job. Proper windows and frames with solid seals shouldn’t fog up. If they are, then they’re probably also letting it too much outside air, as well.
If you’re in a moist climate, you should consider getting newer windows made to withstand the weather you deal with during the majority of the year.
6. Water Woes
Remember that gentle rain we talked about earlier? While the sound is nice, allowing that rainwater in isn’t so great. Leaking windows could mean rotting wooden frames and if it’s bad enough, ruining carpet and furniture.
The best time to check if you’ve got leaky windows is to go around your home during a storm and check the windows. Water gathering on the window sills is a dead giveaway. Also, check for drops of water around the edges.
Don’t ignore small leaks because a little water now could mean way too much water later on.
7. Improve Your View
Maybe there is nothing technically wrong with your windows, but they just aren’t giving you the joy you wish they would.
Do you have a great view outside that is just begging for a big picture window or some other type of window that gives you that joy? There are many types of windows that you may want to consider that will be a huge upgrade to your home.
Some windows slide open, others crank open. Some windows are large and ornate while others are more private and secure. Picking the right options is important, and it can be an improvement to your property value and daily enjoyment.
It’s Time for Window Replacements
So you’ve decided that you need new windows, what now? Installing new windows in your home is something that you’ll most certainly want a professional to help you with.
You’ll also benefit from having help deciding which windows are right for you. The right windows will last longer and could even save you money every single month if you’re dealing with drafts or leaking. If you need replacements, make an appointment today for a window consultation.