There are many benefits to getting new windows for the home. Still, due to cost and inconvenience, many homeowners put off replacing them. In fact, you may be wondering if it’s really time to replace the windows in your home or if you are simply tired of the ones in place. Here, we’ll help distinguish between wanting new windows and needing them.
There are three essential factors to consider when evaluating the windows in your home. They include energy efficiency, maintenance, and ease of use. Keeping these three things in mind, ask yourself the following questions:
Are my windows energy efficient?
To gauge the energy efficiency of your windows, consider the comfort level of your home. Is it difficult to maintain an even temperature during hot and cold months? Do you feel drafts around the window casings? Can you hear whistling through the window on a windy day? It may be time to replace your windows with a more energy-efficient set.
Windows that are certified as energy efficient can help regulate temperature, block sunlight, and control indoor humidity levels. Moreover, purchasing Energy Star rated products may qualify for a Federal Tax Credit.
Do my windows require a lot of maintenance?
If you spend a great deal of time and energy maintaining your windows, replacing them may be worth the expense. Maintenance may include, but is not limited to:
- Removal of old paint: Painted windows require frequent scraping of old paint. Failure to remove it will result in wood rot.
- Painting: When windows for the home are scraped of old paint, they need to be repainted. If you spend a great deal of time on this chore, replace them with easy-care vinyl or aluminum windows.
- Operational adjustments: If you frequently have to force the windows open, replace hardware, or lubricate them often, they may need to be replaced.
Are my windows easy to use?
Can everyone in the household open and close the windows? If they refuse to open, stick in the up or down position, or won’t swing in and out of place, they can pose a severe danger in the event of a fire. This, in itself, is a good reason to replace the windows in your home.
Additional signs that it’s time to replace your windows:
Fogging – If your windows are frequently fogged between the panes, it’s a sign that the glass needs to be replaced. If your windows are extremely old, finding replacement glass may be tricky (and costly).
Rot – Once the windows begin to rot, there’s no stopping. Rot can cause damage not only to the windows themselves but to the area around them. Wet rot can attract termites, which can destroy a home.
