5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windows

As springtime approaches, many homeowners are taking note of projects around the house that need attention. If you suspect your windows may need maintenance or possibly even replacement, we’re sharing 5 tell-tale signs it may be time to replace your windows.

You may be wondering, what is the average lifespan of residential windows? Typically, windows last 15-30 years, but well-maintained products could also go beyond the 20 year mark. Since new windows are such a large investment, you’ll want to do what you can to prolong the life of the current windows in your home.

One of the easiest ways to extend the life cycle of the windows in your home believe it or not, is to clean them. Clean all parts of your windows, including the glass, casing, and surrounding walls to reduce dirt and dust build-up. In addition to cleaning them, inspecting them regularly is also important so you’re able to catch any problem areas before they become a bigger issue.

It’s important to mention, there are smaller repairs that can be done to fix some of the issues you may run into like caulking, glazing, replacing weather stripping, clearing a jamb, or fixing a broken handle. However, here are some things you may notice that indicate your windows need to be replaced…

Cold Window Drafts

If you continuously feel a cold draft if you’re near a window or you walk in a room and it feels noticeably cooler, this is an indicator that the seals are damaged and it may be time to replace your window. If a window is letting in cold air it is also going to cause an extra work on your furnace and lead to a higher energy bill.

Excessive Window Condensation

Condensation or “sweat” on your windows can mean that your current windows’ glazing is losing its effectiveness. What is glaze? Glaze is a coating put on window glass that helps reflect heat back to its source (is also called Low-E, or low-emissivity glass). For example, in the summer it will help block the heat from the sun and in the winter, it will help keep heat in and not let it escape. The major benefits of glaze include:

• Reduced heat loss and cold drafts
• Reduced noise and sound transmission
• Reduced condensation
• Increased energy efficiency
• Increased durability and rigidity
• Increased security (harder to break)

Are new Low-E glass windows worth it? They may be a slightly bigger investment initially, but depending on where you live, this type of glass can be well worth the cost. Or if your windows are in good shape otherwise, you may opt to have a new glaze applied.

Decay and Water Damage

If you start noticing your window frames deteriorate from moisture, this may be a sign it is time for a replacement. If there are cracks, broken glass, chipping, rotting, mold, or decay repairing the window may not cut it. Wooden windows are highly susceptible to this problem if you live in an area with weather like the midwest. The weather extremes make wooden windows a poor choice for homes in this area.

Loud Outside Noise

If you are hearing every dog bark, every car drive by, or storms send your pets or kids into distress, this may be a sign your windows are not providing enough insulation to reduce sound transfer. If the sound is overwhelming and is affecting the comfortability of your home you may want to consider upgrading to a better quality window.

High Utility Bills

If you have older single-pane windows and can feel the cold from outside when you are near them this may be a sign the windows have reached the end of their life. As a result of cracks, broken seals, or damage to the window frame your utility bill might also noticeably increase. If you haven’t been consistent with cleaning or maintaining your windows, you may miss some of the signs mentioned above. However, if you notice your bill going up each month it may trigger your curiosity to investigate what could be the cause. If you’re new to your home and you’re not sure if your bills are high you should be able to ask your realtor or contact your utility company to give you an average cost for utilities.

Now that you are aware of what to look for if you notice any of these problems arise feel free to reach out to Fixer and talk with one of our home repair specialists. We can help you determine if there is an intervention that can help prolong the life of your current windows and result in cost savings! We can replace weatherstripping, re-screen, unstick, or caulk your windows. To learn more about common projects and estimates, we invite you to visit https://fixer.com/services/window-repair/ We’d be happy to help!