The windows in your home likely have a lifespan of about 15 to 20 years when it comes to performance and energy efficiency. At some point, your windows will begin to show signs of wear and even failure. But how do you know when it is time to replace them? Here are some indicators that will let you know you are ready for an upgrade.
Visible Damage
The best indicator that your windows need replacing is damage that you can see. This includes broken or cracked glass, rotted wood sills and frames from water seepage, and insects getting inside the house where seals or caulking have failed.
Condensation on the Inside of the Panes of Glass
If you are seeing moisture on the interior panes of glass, that lets you know that the windows are leaking or that your home is high in humidity. This can easily happen with single-paned windows. However, if you have double or triple glazing and you see condensation between the panes, this tells you that the air-tight seals between the panes have been compromised allowing for air and moisture to get inside.
Outside Noise Seems Louder
Newer windows are excellent at dampening sound. If outside noise, such as traffic and loud neighbors, is starting to get on your nerves, you could benefit from new windows that are double or triple-glazed and well-insulated to lessen the noise.
Your Home Feels Drafty
Drafty windows are a clear sign that outside air is getting inside and inside air is seeping to the exterior. A drafty house can be extremely uncomfortable. If you feel air moving around the sash of a closed window, then it is moving into your home and very likely bringing moisture and pollen with it. This can tax your HVAC system.
Your Utility Bills Keep Going Up
If you are noticing that your electric and fuel costs are increasing, it could be because of aging and deteriorating windows. Old windows can make it difficult to keep conditioned air inside your home and unconditioned air from penetrating the windows and their surrounding frames. As with drafts, this results in your HVAC system having to work extra hard to keep the home warm in winter and cool in summer. This can actually cause your HVAC equipment to fail sooner than anticipated.
To sum it up, windows don’t last forever and should be replaced at some point. Doing so will give you a good return on the investment. You will feel more comfortable and you could save on utility costs. There are so many replacement windows to choose from that can meet any budget.
