Windows deliver fabulous views, refreshing ventilation, and insulation that keeps your home interior at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. But when they get old or faulty, they can cause high utility bills, indoor drafts, and costly moisture intrusion.
Read on to discover some quick tips that it’s time for new replacement windows.
Signs it’s Time for New Windows
1. It’s Tough to Open and Close Your Windows
A properly functioning window is easy to operate, so if your windows are tough to use, it’s time to start looking for new ones. There shouldn’t be any extra effort required to open or close them. In fact, if they are stuck closed or difficult to open, it’s time for new windows.
2. There Are Drafts Indoors Near Your Windows
When gaps occur around your windows due to improper installation or aging, it can cause uncomfortable drafts to seep into your interior. This makes the temperature in your home fluctuate based on if you’re near a window or not, and creates discomfort inside your home when extreme temperatures hit.
3. Your Utility Bills Have Gone Up Significantly
If you’ve noticed that your home’s energy efficiency is less than desirable, and your utilities have gone up as a result, it’s time to shop for new windows. If you have single-pane, old, or faulty windows, it can cost you not to replace them—primarily in your energy usage.
4. Noise Intrusion from Outdoors Increased
When outdoor noise from airplanes, heavy equipment, trains, nearby street sounds, or barking dogs invade your home, it’s time to shop for new windows. Today’s windows reduce noise intrusion so you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere in your home, and create the best conditions for a good night’s sleep.
5. Your Current Windows Are Old and Outdated
At some point, it will be time to sell your current dwelling. If your windows dampen your curb appeal because they are outdated or faulty, it will hinder the possibility of you getting the best price for your home sale. Prospective buyers are attracted to a property with windows that are both stylish and in good working order. You’ll boost your resale value by replacing your windows.
Vinyl windows generally last between 20 and 40 years when they are installed properly and maintained well (note: fiberglass lasts up to 50 years). If your home has builder-grade windows (which don’t last long!), it’s best to replace them as soon as possible so you can gain the long-term energy efficiency and indoor comfort you desire.
6. Your Windows Are Damaged
If your windows are damaged due to flying debris from your lawnmower, or a stray ball someone threw, it’s time for replacements. Likewise, if they have suffered moisture intrusion, creating rot, mold, or other damage, begin to shop for new ones.
7. Your Windows Are Foggy
Condensation on the inside or outside of your windows indicates high humidity levels, and doesn’t require window replacement. However, if you have condensation between the panes of glass, your seal has failed and allowed moisture to enter, and you’ll need either a new seal or a new window.
8. You Notice Sun Damage Near Your Windows
Do you have indoor fade damage on your wood floors or furniture in distinct areas around your home where the sun shines in? This is a signal your windows aren’t as energy efficient as they could be. New windows will provide better protection from harmful UV rays.
What to Do if Your Windows Are Failing
If you notice signs that your windows are failing, contact a window contractor like Beissel Window & Siding to have them professionally inspected. Homeowners who put off a window inspection when it was needed can sometimes find their problems grow bigger as a result.
If moisture has slipped into a gap in your window, waiting to have it looked at can result in wood rot, unhealthy mold, and a bigger repair job. Getting your windows inspected will give you the knowledge you need to make the best decision about where to go from here.
Why It’s So Important to Find a Window Contractor with Integrity
At Beissel Window and Siding, we had a customer whose new windows kept fogging up. She bought them three years ago from another company, and something was clearly wrong. We were her third bid on the situation.
When we investigated the problem, we discovered her windows were actually fine, and all she needed was a dehumidifier in the room. We communicated this to her to save her money (and frustration!). We saved her tens of thousands of dollars by advising her to use a dehumidifier to stop her window issues (versus replacing all the windows in her home like another contractor suggested).
The dehumidifier solved the issue, so as you can see, it’s important to find a contractor who operates in integrity.
Beautify Your Home with a Window Replacement
At Beissel Window & Siding, we operate in integrity, diagnose issues with accuracy, and always have our customer’s best interests at heart.
Take a moment to discover how our window replacement services can benefit your home’s comfort level and beauty.
