Unless you live in a haunted mansion, your home cannot talk to you. However, it will give you a few signs if something is out of order. The windows of your home are actually quite communicative.
To tell the truth, windows don’t last forever. Despite that, high-quality ones can last more than twenty years if you maintain them well. Though you may fix some minor issues, it’s only a matter of time before you decide to replace your windows.
Like most homeowners, you may not be looking forward to doing that. After all, replacing your windows is a large investment. Still, that doesn’t mean you should brush off any potential issues. This article will cover the most common signs that your windows need replacement.
Are Your Windows Damaged or Hard to Operate?
If your windows need new hardware or weatherstripping, repairing them will do the trick. However, if the window frame or sash is warped or damaged, a repair is probably not the best way forward. Even though you may still be able to operate the windows, additional issues may occur.
As time goes by, your windows may start fogging up more often. Changing temperatures can either expand or contract the materials. As a result, the operable sashes don’t fit as they should. Furthermore, older windows collect moisture that can often break down or rust the moving hardware, rendering them inoperable.
Windows that stick easily or simply won’t close are another common issue. That may be because your handles, latches, and cranks don’t work properly. After all, opening and closing your windows should be an easy process. However, if it’s not, you may want to consider replacing them.
Has the Outside Noise Become More Noticeable?
Windows do not only keep the cold or polluted air from entering your home, but they also protect you from the noise outside. That is especially important if you live on a busy street.
If your windows are letting all the noise in, something is either wrong with the way they are sealed. That problem may arise for two reasons. Either the seals have become weaker over time, or they were poorly made in the first place. However, it’s not only the seals that are the issue — single-pane windows are to blame, as well. That poses our next question.
Do You Have Single-pane Windows?
If you are nodding your head in affirmation, that may be bad news for your energy bill and peace-and-quiet. Your house may have been built in the late ‘60s or earlier, and you still haven’t replaced your windows. Today’s windows use either two or three panes of glass. Single-pane windows are often drafty and unsafe if the glass shatters. On top of that, they are the worst at fending off UV light that may fade the colors of your furniture.
Single-pane windows are bad insulators. Only one pane is not enough to defend from outside temperatures, high or low. Surely, a single pane of glass is enough if you live in an area with mild seasonal temperatures. Still, it might give you a hard time cooling down or heating your home, thereby increasing your electricity bill. In fact, drafty and single pane windows account for up to 30% of energy use in a home.
Do You Live by the Coast or in a Stormy Area?
Living in a coastal region may have its aesthetic benefits. However, if you live near the coast, your windows have sustained some damage. The air in coastal regions contains high concentrations of salt. Therefore, it reacts with the different parts of your windows, which most often results in corrosion or rotting.
If the area you live in is prone to blizzards and storms, you wouldn’t want to risk your safety. After all, living in such regions entails the use of high-quality windows. Nevertheless, you might want to prepare for sudden severe weather by inspecting your old windows. One fault too many can prove disastrous, so replacement is probably the safest option.
Are You Renovating Your Home?
You’ll agree that windows affect the look of both the inside and the outside of your house. In other words, no matter how good your home looks, worn windows can stick out like a sore thumb. If your home is getting a long-deserved makeover, consider replacing your windows with larger ones. That way, not only will your home look better, but you’ll also fill it with more natural light.
In a Nutshell — The Pros and Cons of Window Replacement
The Pros
Today’s windows are energy efficient and greatly isolate outside noise. Moreover, they offer additional upgrading options. Aside from reducing maintenance costs, replacing your windows also comes with a fairly good ROI (return of investment) factor — between 71% and 78%.
The Cons
Window replacement is not a cheap undertaking. Luckily, we offer flexible payment options and plans for any budget.
Final Thoughts
Replacing your windows is not an easy decision to make. Therefore, you can contact us anytime for a free assessment the state of your windows and in-home consultation. In most cases, you’ll benefit quite a lot from installing new windows, as they offer countless options for making your home more beautiful, energy-efficient, and quiet.
