How to Decide if it is Time to Replace Your Windows

Windows are one of the most important parts of your home. They keep your house energy efficient, control how much light and air get in, and can make your house look great...or not so great. While it's easy to overlook window repairs unless one gets broken, it's important to keep them in top condition so they can keep protecting your home. Here are 5 key indicators that will tell you when to replace windows.

Damaged or Decaying Frames

When we think of windows, it can be easy to only consider the glass. As long as the panes aren't broken or cracked, the window must be fine, right? Well, no. The frame is just as important as the panes of glass.

If they're starting to show signs of wear and decay, you need to get them replaced, right away. This is particularly true if you have wooden frames. While wooden frames can be pleasing to look at, moisture can cause them to rot and allow for mold to develop. This can lead to leaks and even risk the health of your family. Other materials, like vinyl, may not decay as easily, but damage can still cause them to become less efficient. If you see any signs of damage or decay, it's time to replace your windows.

Condensation Between the Panes

Another indicator of when to replace windows in a house is if you see condensation or moisture beginning to form between the panes in a double-pane window. Double pane windows are designed to be sealed tight. Many of them have some sort of gas, like Argon, between the panes to increase their insulation. So if you're seeing moisture or condensation between the panes, it's a sure sign that something is wrong. For condensation to appear, the seal must have failed, allowing moisture from the outside to seep into the space between the panes. There is no way to fix this problem, other than replacing your windows.

You Feel a Draft

If you feel a draft coming in from your window, it means that the seal around it is broken. Windows are integral to your home's integrity. When the seal around them degrades, it makes your house less energy efficient, increases your heating and cooling bills, and leaves your home vulnerable to the external environment. That means you could have leaks and pests coming into your home!

If you notice a draft from your window, call a professional immediately. While they may be able to do some repair work to extend the life of your window, drafts are a good indication that it is time to replace windows. This can also be a good time to check other windows in the house and make sure they're all in good shape.

Noise!

Older windows, and ones that are in poor shape, are also going to be noisier windows. New windows do a great job keeping the outside sounds outside. That means you get a quieter and more relaxing home. Some of the reasons for this is that newer windows are made of better materials and in ways that just do a better job canceling out noise. But the sound coming in from older windows can also be an indication that they have cracks in their seals. If they aren't keeping out noise, they're probably not going to keep other things outside either. When you replace them with a new window, you'll get the best new technologies and will get to enjoy a quieter home.

High Utility Bills

Perhaps the best indicator of when you should replace windows is when you notice your energy bills going up. Windows seal a giant hole in your home's walls. When that's done right, they can add to the insulation of your house, keep your bills down, and keep your home running smoothly. But when they are at the end of their lives, windows can leak out the heat and cool air that you want to keep inside. That means you'll have to spend more energy and money to regulate the temperature of your home. While it may seem like a big expense to install new windows, the money you'll save on energy will pay for it in no time.

Talk to the Experts

When do you need to replace windows? When they are no longer able to do their jobs, protecting and insulating your home. If you notice any of these problems with your windows, call Expo Home Improvement right away. We've got the years of experience to help you find the right solution for your home. Our team of professionals will work with you to create a plan that will meet all your needs and get your house feeling and looking great. Call or contact us and we'll give you a free quote to get you started today!