When it comes to your home’s windows, they are often taken for granted. Yet with time and wear-and-tear, the window frames that you rely on can start to degrade and even begin to affect how well your home performs when it comes to energy efficiency.
Unfortunately, signs of aging aren’t always easily recognizable without a close inspection — sometimes you just have to know what you’re looking for. Knowing these key indicators that it’s time to replace your windows can provide peace of mind and help prevent any unwanted surprises down the road!
In this article, we’ll discuss the key indicators that suggest your windows are due for a replacement. WindowPRO has helped thousands of Lansing homeowners find windows to fit their home and budget. Whether you’re experiencing escalating energy bills, drafts and leaks, or outdated aesthetics, this article will help you decide if it may be time to replace your windows. Don’t let outdated or faulty windows compromise your home’s value and functionality.
8 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windows
Windows play an important role in any home. They provide natural light, ventilation and views of the outdoors. Therefore, if you are noticing problems with your windows, like drafts or moisture issues, it is a good idea to inspect them and determine when it’s time for a window replacement. Here are eight signs that you should consider replacing your windows:
1. You Feel Drafts Coming Through The Window Frames
If your windows feel drafty or cold during the winter months or warm during summer months, it may be time for a replacement, as they are no longer providing adequate insulation from the elements. Old windows can place added stress on your HVAC system. This is because older windows tend to allow drafts and cold air into the home. Installing new windows with better insulation can help keep the warmth inside your home during winter months. Poor insulation can also happen if your windows have gaps between the panes or around their edges, which often occurs as a result of age and wear and tear.
2. You Can See Condensation Between The Windowpanes
If your windows are fogging up, steaming, or dripping with water, it means that the seal between the glass has been broken. This is a sign of window failure and should be addressed immediately before any further damage can occur to your walls and woodwork.
3. Your Windows Are Difficult To Open And Close
If your windows are becoming difficult to operate, then the tracks or frames may be damaged and need attention. You should never have to force open or close a window in your home. If they become difficult to open or close, then it’s likely due to worn-out hardware components such as hinges and latches, which would need to be replaced during window replacement.
4. You Can Clearly Hear Outside Noise
If you find that your windows do little to reduce the outside noise, it might be time to upgrade to windows designed for noise insulation. Old windows tend to let in lots of noise from outside as well as allow sound from inside your house to travel outwards. A good test is to close the window and check if you can still hear street noise from inside the house.
Double or triple-pane glass windows can significantly minimize external noise, creating a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment. If you want to block out traffic noise or other outside sounds, then this might be a good indication that it is time for window replacement.
5. Your Energy Bills Have Gone Up
If you’ve noticed an increase in your energy bills over the past few months, it could be due to poor insulation from old windows. Rising energy bills can be a sign that your old windows are no longer doing their job properly and not providing adequate insulation. Replacing them with energy-efficient windows can help reduce your energy costs by up to 20 percent! Replacing your windows with energy-efficient options, such as double-pane or Low-E glass windows, can help lower your energy consumption and reduce your utility bills.
6. You Notice Water Damage Or Stains Around The Windows
This could be a sign that your old windows are letting in moisture and need replacing. Wood frames on older windows can rot away because of moisture and water damage. Therefore, if any part of the frame looks soft or spongy when touched, it means that it needs replacing immediately before further damage occurs. This is a sign that window replacement is needed before any further damage can occur to your walls or woodwork.
8. Your Windows Are More Than 20 Years Old
Depending on the quality of your current windows, you may want to consider replacing them if they’ve been in place for over a decade. Over time, window frames wear down and need to be replaced in order to keep up with the latest energy efficiency standards. If your windows are over 20 years old, then they may no longer be up to standard and you should consider replacing them.
Your windows play a vital role in enhancing your home’s overall aesthetic appeal. If your windows look outdated or no longer match the architectural style of your home, it’s time to consider replacement. Upgrading to modern window designs can give your home a fresh and updated look while increasing its market value. Additionally, contemporary windows often offer advanced features like enhanced security, easy maintenance and improved functionality, providing additional benefits beyond aesthetics.
If any these warning signs apply to the windows in your home, consider doing some research, and look into different types of window styles and materials available. Investing in good-quality windows can help improve your home’s value while also providing energy efficiency benefits for many years to come.
Is Window Replacement A Good Investment?
As shown in the National Association of Realtors 2022 Remodeling Impact Report, upgrading your windows is one of the top 5 highest cost recovery exterior projects. Cost recovery refers to the amount of the project cost that is recouped by an increase in your home’s value and sale price. Rest assured knowing your window replacement is a smart investment in your home.
Schedule Your Top-Rated Window Replacement In Lansing
It’s always better to address any issues with older windows sooner rather than later. If any of these signs apply to your current windows, then it may be time to consider window replacement in your home. Taking action now can help you avoid further damage and ensure that your home is properly insulated against the elements all year round.
Whether you’re looking for better insulation or an updated aesthetic, replacing old windows with new ones could be just what you need to make your house feel like a home again. Maintaining the windows in your home is important for both energy efficiency and comfort. By staying aware of common warning signs, such as drafts, moisture buildup, warping or cracks, and taking action before further damage or deterioration occurs, you can help ensure your windows remain in good condition and up to the most current standards.
WindowPRO has served Lansing and Southeast Michigan homeowners since 1923. We’re a top-rated window replacement company, and we’re proud of the accolades we’ve earned from our customers. We offer high quality window replacements and have a large selection of windows, including highly rated windows from ProVia and Marvin. If you think it’s time to replace your windows, we’d love to see if we’d be a good fit for your project. Contact us today to set up your free, no-hassle consultation.
