Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windows
Are you wondering if it’s time to replace your windows? Your window won’t suddenly all fall off your house when they’re past their prime, but there are plenty of signs you can look for that can indicate it’s time to replace the windows on your home. Here’s what to look for.
Functional Window Issues
Having trouble opening and closing your windows? Have a certain window that doesn’t seal all the way so you can lock it? These functional issues can occur as the mechanisms that allow the window to function start to break down.
Visible Deterioration or Aging Windows
If your window frames are rotting or deteriorating, these are signs that you need to have the entire window replaced. Additionally, if you happen to know how old your windows are, this can give you an indication as well. The average lifespan of older windows is about 20 years, so anything older than that is likely due for a replacement.
Foggy Windows
If your house windows have a layer of condensation between the panes of glass, this is an indication of seal failure. This means your window is no longer functioning as it should. The space between two panes of glass is sealed and usually contains an inert gas like argon or krypton. These gasses are much denser than air to provide additional insulation. Any signs of moisture here mean that water was able to enter the space and the gas was able to escape.
Drafty Windows
Any draftiness coming from your windows indicates they aren’t keeping your home protected from the heat and cold outside, either. This may be due to poor installation techniques, older windows that don’t have the same energy-efficient components that are available today, or other forms of deterioration that are allowing air to pass into your home.
Higher Energy Bills
Poorly insulated windows or older, single-paned windows may result in higher-than-usual energy bills. The Department of Energy estimates that up to 30% of energy loss in a home occurs through the windows. So, if you don’t have energy-efficient windows that are performing properly, it may result in higher energy bills. Of course, many other factors can increase your energy bills as well, so your windows are only one piece of the puzzle.
Getting Your Windows Replaced
When you start to notice issues with one of your windows, you’ll likely find that the same issues start to arise with your other windows as well. Things like age, draftiness, and functionality will likely affect all of your windows around the same time if they were all installed together. It’s usually to your benefit to replace all of your windows at once since these problems will continue to affect other windows sooner rather than later.
If you’ve noticed signs that it’s time to replace the windows on your home, turn to the experts at NewSouth Window Solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our window replacement services.