7 Telltale Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Home’s Windows

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7 Telltale Signs It's Time to Replace Your Home's Windows

Your home’s windows take up approximately 15 percent of your home’s total wall space. Since they cover so much real estate, it only makes sense that you want windows that look great and function properly.

Unfortunately, regardless of the quality of the window or how well they were installed, no windows last forever. Knowing when to replace windows is key to keeping the facade of your home looking great.

If you don’t know the signs for when it is time to invest in new windows, then it’s time you found out. Keep reading to learn some of the most common signs you need new windows.

1. You Feel a Draft

A large amount of your home’s heated or cooled air will escape through subpar windows. If you begin to feel the cold from outside when you touch the windows, or if you notice a draft when you stand close to them, you should consider investing in replacement windows.

High-quality windows are uniquely designed for superior energy efficiency. This means they keep the weather outside – where it belongs.

2. Increasing Cooling and Heating Costs

This goes along with the point above. If your windows are worn out or old, they will not keep cooled or heated air in.

This means your heating and cooling system must work harder to keep the interior of your home at a comfortable temperature. As this cycle continues, your heating and cooling costs may go up.

Keep in mind, though, when replacing your windows, not all are created equal. This means you need to discuss the specific needs of your home with a specialist before you make a purchase.

3. The Age of Your Windows

Do you have windows in your home that have been in place for 20 to 30 years? Are they original to the house, installed during the construction? If so, they likely have single pane glass.

If you happen to have dual pane windows, they may not be as energy-efficient as those rated with Energy Star, since this program didn’t start until 1992. Also, if you have older windows, they may not have the proper glazing to keep the UV rays out of your home.

If this is the case, it can cause fading on your furniture, draperies, and carpets. Modern windows use Low E glass, which helps the temperature in your home stay at a more consistent level throughout the year. They are also protected to help resist color fading.

4. Problems Raising and Lowering Your Windows

Do you have a hard time getting your windows open? When they finally open, do you have to prop them up to keep them in the open position?

If you have to struggle to open or to shut your windows, it’s time to replace them. Wood windows are some of the most common to have this issue.

5. It’s Just Too Hot in Your Home

When you have your windows closed during the summer, have you noticed your home feels like an oven? As mentioned above, older windows don’t have the Energy Star ratings that keep heat out when the sun is beating down on them.

Windows that are certified with the Energy Star rating can be reduced by about 12 percent across the nation in energy costs compared to the non-certified options. Energy Star doors and windows are independently certified and verified to perform at a level that meets or exceeds the efficiency guidelines that have been established by the U.S. EPA.

While energy efficiency is a huge reason to purchase new windows, you may also want to increase the airflow in your home. This can be done by replacing a picture window that only lets you see the view outside, with one that opens.

Double or single hung windows, horizontal sliding windows, awning windows, and casement windows all offer different levels of ventilation. Learn more about each style to figure out which one is right for you.

6. The Presence of Fog Between Your Double Pane Windows

Have you noticed compensation or fog between the glass panes of your windows? If so, this indicates a seal failure. It means that moisture has invaded the space present between the panes.

When it is cold outside, you may even notice ice or frost buildup. Higher quality windows may be able to be repaired. However, in other situations, replacing the window may be a better option.

7. Excessive Outside Noise

Can you hear noise and sounds from outside, even when your windows are closed? If so, there’s a good chance they aren’t providing adequate acoustic insulation. The STC – Sound Transmission Class – is a measure of a window’s ability to reduce the amount of sound that gets inside.

Usually, the higher the STC rating is, the better sound control you can expect from your window, which also results in a quieter home. The typical STC rating of single-pane windows is 18 to 20. For double glazed windows, the STC is usually between 28 and 32.

If outside noise is a problem where you live, try to find a window with a higher STC rating.

When to Replace Windows: Is It Time?

Now that you know when to replace windows in your home, is it time to make this investment? If so, find a reputable seller that can provide the highest quality windows for your home.

If you want more information about home repairs, giveaways, travel, or other topics, be sure to check out our other informative blogs. We update the information regularly to ensure our readers stay informed at all times.

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