How Often to Replace Windows
While there are some standard sizes for windows, the sheer variety of styles, types, and circumstances means that the experience is amazingly diverse. With so many windows made of different materials that function in different ways installed in different locations and different climates, it should come as no surprise that their respective timelines for replacement will be different. However, there are certain indicators that homeowners can use as signals that it’s time to think about the possibility of window replacement.
When to Replace Windows
You Have Storm Damage
When severe weather strikes, windows can be vulnerable. If a storm tosses a branch or some other debris through a window and causes damage, replacing it is important. Until you do, you’ll have a chink in your home’s defenses against the elements.
You Have Trouble With Water Getting In
Water damage is pricy. If it’s not handled properly, it can set the stage for additional issues in the future. If water is seeping in around your windows, you’ll want to give serious thought to replacing them.
You Notice That Your Window Frames Are Soft
Moisture intrusion around wooden windows will lead to rot, which causes soft, weak frames. To protect your home’s value, replace the windows and restore the framing.
You See Foggy or Cloudy Panes
Is the world beyond your windows lost in a fog even on a sunny day? With double- or triple-paned windows, condensation can become trapped between the layers. As Angi explains, this indicates a leak in the window’s seal. Occasionally, repair is possible. However, replacement is normally recommended.
You Feel a Draft
If you’re feeling a breeze when you sit in front of your window or hearing the wind whipping past them, then your windows are no longer doing their job effectively. You can try updating your caulking or weatherstripping. However, persistent drafts are often a signal that it’s time to think about replacing your windows.
You Want Lower Energy Bills
If you’re wondering when to replace windows, experts often suggest looking at your energy bills. The reason is simple. As Forbes points out, inefficient windows can add an additional 10 to 25 percent to your energy bills. Swapping out older windows for new, energy-efficient models can result in significant savings. If energy savings are a priority for you, look for ENERGY STAR-certified windows when you go shopping for replacement windows. Then, make sure that you have them installed by a trusted professional. After all, even the best windows will leave you battling leaks if they aren’t installed improperly.
You Have Windows That Don’t Work Correctly
Windows that stick, don’t open, fight closing, or otherwise refuse to function properly are frustrating to deal with. Replacing them is often the best way to reclaim those window spaces.
You Want to Change the Look of Your Windows
If your windows are mismatched, battered, or simply in need of a fresh look, replacement windows are a great option. What if you have a historic home? Consumer Reports suggests proceeding with caution. If the home still has its original windows, replacing them with a poor substitute could negatively impact its value. If the home already has replacement windows, you might be unhappy with the existing look. For a better result, work with your contractor to choose products that fit your home’s style when selecting windows for your historic home. In fact, working with a knowledgeable window professional is smart no matter the age of your home.
