Windows are an integral feature of your home. While providing beauty, natural light, and functionality, they incur wear and tear over an average lifespan of around 20 years. If your windows are showing serious signs of wear, it may be time for new home windows.
Here are five signs it’s time to replace your home windows:
- Increased energy bills. If your energy bills keep climbing but your usage is largely the same, your windows could be to blame. As windows age, they lose their ability to properly insulate your home’s temperature. If it’s time to replace your windows and you’ve experienced increasing energy bills, it may be worth investing in more efficient home windows, such as low-E, to better protect your home’s energy efficiency.
- Drafty areas around windows. Drafts should not be ignored, particularly if you notice them around your windows. When windows aren’t properly insulated or sealed, they can have a big impact on your home’s energy efficiency. Protect your bottom line by being proactive about window drafts.
- Fogging or condensation build-up. These issues go beyond aesthetics. If your windows are fogging or have built-up condensation between window panes, sealant failure is likely the issue. This is a sure sign your windows are not properly insulating your home.
- Deteriorating frames. If your window frames look worse for the wear, it is likely a sign that the integrity of the windows is suspect. Older wooden window frames are especially prone to rotting and decay. Newer materials like vinyl and fiberglass may be a worthwhile upgrade when it’s time to replace your windows.
- Inhibited functionality. If your windows are jammed, sticking, or otherwise not functioning as intended, a replacement may be needed. It’s important to keep windows functioning properly for overall home safety and security.
Replacing home windows is an important part of your home’s overall maintenance. Keep your home efficient, secure, and beautiful by watching out for the signs that it’s time to replace your windows.