Quite often we have homeowners asking us this one important question; “how do you know when it’s time to replace your windows?” Windows are opened, looked through and allow light into our home on a daily basis, yet our windows are some of the most overlooked fixtures in our homes. This may be due to the fact that over 80% of homeowners only need to replace the windows in their home only once or twice in a lifetime. While there isn’t an expiration date on your windows, there are tell-tale signs that indicate your windows need replacement.
Below we have listed 5 signs that it is time to replace your windows.
1. Noticeable Drafts
If you are standing by your window looking out on a snowy day and you feel a breeze, this means air is passing from around your windows and into your home. You can easily test for drafts around your windows with a little experiment. Get a burning stick of incense or even a candle will do. If the smoke moves around or if the wick of the candle flickers, then you know it has leaked. Drafts are a problem because they allow for air to transfer in and out of your home, on a colder day warm internal air will escape and colder air will enter your home, where on a warmer day, cool air conditioned air will escape and warm air will enter your home. Drafty windows cost you, as they force your HVAC system to work harder to control the internal temperature of your home, driving up your utility bills.
2. Difficult To Operate
When you have to force your windows to open or wrestle with them to shut, then you know it’s time you have them looked at by a professional. In some cases, this issue can be resolved with a little bit of lubricant or small adjustments. But, if the issue is caused by shifting or warped frames or corrosion, your only option to correct this issue is to replace the faulty window.
3. Fog Between Window Panes
If you notice fog or condensation build up between your window panes, the issue is more than likely due to a leak in the seals. This type of failure allows moisture to settle between panes and let the efficiency increasing argon gas that was between the panes escape. If you have condensation build up between your window panes, this window is no longer energy efficient, and will allow for greater heat transfer than your other, intact windows.
4. Increased Utility Costs
A sudden increase in your energy consumption should raise suspicions, that something just isn’t right. If you haven’t just recently purchased new appliances, or energy consuming products, take a look at your windows and doors. As windows begin to break down, they lose their efficiency and their ability to seal properly. As mentioned above drafty windows will cause your heating and cooling systems to work overtime to maintain the ideal temperature in your home. A noticeable side-effect of this extra usage, is an increase in your utility bills.
5. Aged Windows
Windows, like many other fixtures in your home have a lifespan. If the windows in your home are 20+ years old, chances are newer windows will be significantly more energy efficient. In addition to being significantly more energy inefficient, older windows lack proper glazing and do not protect from ultraviolet rays, which could ultimately lead to fading and sun damage on furniture, carpets, window treatments and other interior items. New windows are available in a wide selection of styles, designs, and colours, allowing you to choose the right look and functionality for your design and usage preference.