Your windows aren’t just meant to be practical, they also enhance the appearance of your home. And since windows are one of the most prominent features of your property, it’s important to keep them in tip-top shape and replace them when needed.
If your windows look worn, this causes your entire house to look old— and not in that charming sort of way. You should also know that that your windows don’t necessarily have to look worn for them to be in bad shape. Aluminum frame windows, for example, can last over 20 years without appearing aged in the least. This can make it difficult to tell when it’s time for your windows to be replaced.
There is no particular timeframe for when you should get a window replacement since there is a wide range of window frame materials and glass options on the market with varying lifespans.
Here are a few key indicators that your windows are due for replacement:
1. Old Frames and Leaking Windows
One way to tell that it’s time to invest in new windows is when your frames begin looking tired and worn. Getting new windows installed not only improves your home’s aesthetics but also helps to improve energy efficiency.
When your wood frames begin to decay, they can become a safety hazard. The wood gets too weak to hold up the panes, and as a result, the panes may come crashing down. Deteriorated frames can also lead to windows that leak every time it rains.
2. Windows are Hard to Open and Shut
Are you having a hard time opening and closing your windows? If you’re having to pry your windows open and bang them shut, then it’s probably time to get new windows installed.
Your windows should open and close smoothly. If your windows are suddenly difficult to operate, then it’s likely that they have reached the end of their lifespan.
3. The Windows Show Signs of Damage
Warped, cloudy, or broken windows or frames are a clear sign that it’s time to invest in new ones. Minor damages don’t necessarily warrant a window replacement and a simple repair like weatherstripping may fix any issues entirely. However, even if your windows are still functional, the problem will get worse over time.
Visible signs of damage to your windows mean that you should begin exploring various replacement options as soon as possible.
4. Your Energy Bills are Steadily Increasing
There could be several reasons why your energy bills are skyrocketing. One of the most common contributing factors is faulty windows. If you notice a cold draft near your windows or that one room feels colder than other areas of the home, then a window replacement may be in your future.
5. You’re Renovating Your Home
There’s nothing worse than giving your home a makeover and realizing at the end that your windows no longer work in the space. As we mentioned earlier, windows are one of the most prominent features of any home, and they are one of the first things people will notice about your property.
Make sure that you have the right windows in place to match your home’s aesthetics. For example, perhaps it makes sense to switch from single pane windows to double pane windows. You could also consider hiring an interior designer for guidance on which style will work best.
Do You Understand When a Window Replacement is Necessary?
It’s not uncommon to be apprehensive about moving forward to replace your windows. But now that you understand what signs to look for, it’s best to get your windows replaced before any of the problems we discussed in this article get worse.
Make sure that you hire the right team to manage your window replacement project so that you can get back to enjoying your home as soon as possible. Contact Smart Exteriors today to replace your windows!
