Zaraki KenpachiDid you know that you can save up to $465 every year by upgrading your windows? Damaged, poorly installed, or outdated windows aren’t only wasting money and under-performing in terms of energy efficiency — they probably don’t look great, either!
Perhaps you’ve been toying with the idea of getting new windows for your home for a while. If you need that final nudge, you’ve come to the right place.
Check out these seven signs that it’s time to replace and upgrade your windows for more energy efficiency and improved aesthetic.
1. Your Energy Bills Are Increasing
Is your monthly energy bill higher than last year? The problem with leaky windows is that they cause your energy bills to skyrocket in winter and summer.
Your heating and cooling system has to work harder to regulate the temperature in your home if your windows aren’t insulated properly.
You can test this out by touching your window on a cold day. Does the glass feel cold? If so, the warm air that your furnace creates becomes cool when it’s within a few feet of your window.
If so, the cold and warm air produced by your HVAC system is going to waste and it’s time to replace your windows.
2. The Frames Are Decaying or Damaged
This is one of the most recognizable signs that you need to replace the windows in your home. If you have wooden frames that have been exposed to moisture they will begin to decay quite rapidly. Check if the frames are soft to the touch, as this indicates rot and moisture filtration.
If your window frames are made of a material that isn’t wood, check for cracks and chips that will create leaks and decrease insulation effectiveness.
3. The Windows Are Leaking
If you’re wondering when to replace windows in your home then a good time is if your windows are leaking. You’ll notice water around your windows if they’re leaking — sometimes a whole puddle on the floor!
This problem is usually due to poor window installation or a failed sealed unit. This is a problem that shouldn’t be ignored as over time it will just become worse and will cause a mold issue in your home, too.
The only way to properly fix leaky windows is to replace them entirely with high-quality home window options.
4. Operation Isn’t Smooth
Is opening or closing your windows a huge mission? Do you have to fiddle around, apply a lot of force, or get them in just the right position for them to operate smoothly?
This can happen when windows swell or if they were originally painted shut. Wooden window frames are particularly vulnerable to poor operation over the years. It may also be because the windows weren’t originally installed properly or because they are rusting or rotting.
You should be able to open and close your windows with ease. If you can’t, then it’s time for new ones.
5. You Want to Improve the Sound Proofing
Is the noise coming from outside driving you crazy? Your home is your sanctuary and you shouldn’t have to put your TV on full sound to drown out the road outside or get woken up in the night from sounds from the streets.
Good quality windows act as an effective sound barrier to reduce noise pollution in your home. If you feel as if your windows aren’t doing this very well, then perhaps you should consider upgrading.
You need to replace your current windows because chances are that they weren’t installed properly or sealed correctly. What’s more, these days you can get double- or triple-pane glass which can work wonders to decrease outside noise.
6. There’s Condensation Buildup
A sure-fire sign of failed seals is condensation buildup between the layers of glass. It’s quite a noticeable sign that you need to replace your windows as you’ll notice your windows fogging up.
You’ll need to identify where the condensation is forming, as it’s not always a problem. For example, if it’s forming on the outside window panes then you don’t need to worry. But, if it’s fogging up between the panes then it’s time to replace them as the seal has failed and the insulating gas has dissipated.
7. You Want to Update Your Home’s Aesthetic
The signs that it’s time to replace your windows don’t always need to be urgent fixes or household problems. Sometimes, simply wanting to update old windows and change the aesthetic of your home with new home window styles is a good enough reason.
Your windows are a very noticeable feature of your home and they completely change the entire look. Updating modern types of windows means that you increase the curb value of your home and benefit from more energy-efficient windows.
If your windows are old (going on ten years) then it’s a good idea to change them anyways as they likely aren’t functioning correctly. It’s just a bonus that you get to update your home’s style in the process.
You probably don’t need more convincing. So, simply check out these best replacement windows and pick your favorite.
Are You Ready to Get New Windows for Your Home?
Have you noticed one or more of these signs that it’s time to get new windows for your home? If so, don’t procrastinate too long as the problems will just get worse and your energy bill will just keep climbing.
With so many awesome window styles and modern upgrades, you and your home deserve new windows!
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Jaime Hay
