Did you notice over the winter months that your heating bills were increasingly on the rise? This could be a sign that it is time to upgrade your windows.
When was the last time you checked the condition of your home’s windows? Sometimes it is difficult to tell just when they will need replacing if you’ve got wood for aluminum framed windows. The issues are not always super apparent at first, but if your home is 20 or more years old with the original windows still in place, it is likely that it is time to go ahead and make the upgrade. Having well designed windows not only improve your home’s curb appeal, they also improve energy efficiency and increase the amount of natural light in your home. Having damaged or rundown windows can create a security issue and could be costing you unnecessary heating and cooling costs each month. There are a few signs to take note of that will clearly tell you whether it is time to start your windows renovation plan.
High Energy Bills
Wait for a cold day and stand next to your windows. Is there a noticeable difference in temperature than the rest of the room? Next, touch your windows. If the pane feels cool to touch, this generally means that the warm air from your furnace that is heating your home is being cooled down the closer it gets to your old windows. This can be uncomfortable, a big waste of energy and taxing on your furnace as well.
Next, you’ll want to check for drafts or leaks by lighting a candle or burning a stick of incense and holding it by your window frames and slowly moving it around each corner of the window. If there is a flicker of the flame or the smoke moves, you have drafts moving through your windows. If you see visible light coming through the frame in any areas, this a sign that you need to replace your windows. Sealing up those drafts will keep your home more energy efficient and a consistent temperature. While older windows are generally single-paned and vulnerable to leaks, newer windows are highly efficient and designed to help prevent air transferring in and out of your home.
You should consider replacing those leaky windows with windows that contain argon gas and low-emissivity glass to save on heating bills. Low-emissivity glass can keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer, greatly reducing your heating and cooling costs and provide a more comfortable living space.
Window Operation
Windows should be able to open and close smoothly. Walk around your home and check each window to make sure they function well. If they require a bit of extra elbow grease to open and shut or if they are swollen or painted shut, it is time to replace them. This is a common issue seen with wood framed windows. You want your windows to open and shut with ease.
Decaying Frames and Leaky Windows
The most obvious, visible sign that you need to replace your windows are rotting and decaying window frames. Wooden window frames once exposed to moisture can begin to go on a downward spiral. Excess moisture buildup can cause more serious damage and decay over time and cause severe safety issues. You may also notice your windows have begun to leak, leaving moisture inside your home, or in extreme cases, a pool of water on the floor. You may think that your windows aren’t leaking too much, or that they will leak less come summertime, but it is important to remember that moisture, no matter how much or how little, promotes the growth of mold which can be detrimental to your home and your health.
Soundproofing
Take a moment to stand quietly by the window and wait for a car to drive by. Can you hear it coming from down the street? Single-pane windows or even double-pane windows will transfer sound vibrations from the street into your house. The best energy efficient windows will absorb these sound waves before they enter your home.
Condensation
There are different reasons for having condensation or fog build up between your windows. It isn’t always cause for alarm. Depending on where it is appearing on your windows will help you determine if they need replacing. If you see condensation forming between the two panes of glass, that is a sure sign that your windows’ seals have failed. Replace them quickly before your windows get too leaky.
Windows are an investment that will boost your home’s value and significantly improve your home’s curb appeal. They will also increase the amount of natural light in your home, soundproofing and increase energy efficiency. Windows are a functional upgrade whether you are simply trying to improve your home’s appearance or save money on your energy bills.
