There are certain things that might make it obvious that it’s time for replacement windows. If your window is broken, for instance, there’s little recourse for it but to replace it. However, most of the signs that windows need to be replaced are subtler than that. If homeowners don’t know what to look for, those little problem areas can start to accumulate until they have a big problem with their home’s insulation or their energy bills. It helps to know what to look for. Here are 5 signs it may be time to replace your old windows.
Warping
If your window has twisted or stretched in some way out of shape, it’s probably time to get replacement windows, and your original window might not have been very high quality in the first place. Warping happens most often with wood or vinyl windows, particularly with storm damage or hot weather. It can lead to the window no longer quite fitting the frame or leaks into which water or pests could seep through. High-quality vinyl windows like Simonton Vinyl or fiberglass windows are more likely to hold up to the weather and resist warping.
Condensation
Window condensation is frost that builds up on the inside of your windows in winter. It might look charming at first, but it actually means that your window is leaking too much air. Window condensation occurs when the cold air from outside is thawed on the glass by the warm air inside. Because of this, you might notice the room is a little colder near a frosty window and there might be a draft in your home. A stronger replacement window will keep the cold air out, nipping window condensation in the bud and keep your home comfortable.
Difficulty Opening or Closing
Do you struggle to open or close your old windows? Sometimes the lock or springs inside the window can rust with age. It can be nearly impossible to open the window or, on the other hand, you might need to prop something up to keep the window from snapping shut as soon as you let go. Swollen frames or warped windows can also make opening or closing a problem. Whatever the reason, your window should be fully functional. If it’s anything less, you need replacement windows.
High Energy Bills
Have you experienced higher HVAC or energy bills in the past few years? Sometimes even when you have your heat on at a reasonable level, your house still feels chilly and uncomfortable, or you need to turn on three lamps in order to properly light a room. Energy efficient replacement windows can solve this problem for you by offering stronger insulation to your home or even letting in more natural light. The sooner you get replacement windows installed, the sooner you can start saving on your energy bills again.
Age
What’s the lifespan on your windows? Not everyone knows that different types of windows last for different lengths of time. Aluminum Windows last about 15-20 years. Wood windows can last up to 30 years, although wood is one of the most susceptible materials to damage from the elements. Fiberglass and vinyl windows can last 20-40 years, but the quality of the vinyl is important here. With cheap vinyl that warps easily, you’ll be lucky to get 20 years out of it. As your window comes nearer to the end of its lifespan, its performance will start to falter, and you may need to consider replacement windows.
It can be hard to say goodbye to your old windows, but easy to say hello to the added curb appeal and energy efficiency of replacement windows. At Johnson County Siding & Windows Co., we offer high-quality replacement windows from Simonton and Marvin, along with expert installation crews to make the job quick and painless. Contact us today for more information or a free quote.
