Knowing when it’s time to for your windows in your home to be replaced is never an easy thing. Between the expense and the interruption to your daily life, it’s tempting to simply get along with the same old windows long after their expected lifespan. However, there are a few signs you should look for that can help you make the decision to update your home’s windows.
1) Window Leaks
Leaky windows are usually one of the most common reasons homeowners decide their windows need to be replaced. When water starts finding its way inside your home, it’s time to start the process of installing new windows—and fast.
There are a number of reasons why your windows may have started to leak. Sometimes, seals in the window start to fail, while other times, a pane may have small cracks. However, the most common reason is that either the window frame or the material surrounding the frame has started to rot.
When that happens, the best solution is for the window to be replaced—this gives you the chance to not only repair any structural damage that may have occurred but also presents a perfect opportunity to update the look of your home’s windows.
2) Condensation
Not all condensation is a problem. Sometimes, the difference in temperature inside and outside your home can cause condensation to temporarily form on your window, and it quickly dissipates. However, when you see condensation between double panes in your window, it is a problem.
Dual-pane windows have an insulating gas inserted between the two layers of glass, which helps make your windows more efficient. Condensation indicates that the seal around your panes has failed and the insulating gas has escaped. Not only is your window now drafty, but it’s also missing one of the most important factors in regulating your home’s temperature.
3) Sticky Windows
Over time, you may notice that your windows get more and more difficult to open and need to be replaced. This can be for a number of reasons, from swelling or broken window frames to degrading internal mechanics. Whether your window is wooden, metal, or fiberglass, when your window becomes hard to open or close, it’s time to start thinking about new windows.
While some homeowners will put up with what they see as a minor annoyance, a sticky window is often an indication of a larger problem, which can lead to your window no longer opening (or closing) or severe leaks or drafts.
4) High Energy Costs
One of the most overlooked reasons why your home’s heating or cooling bills may have risen is your windows. Modern windows have a number of advanced technological properties that make them more efficient than ever, from insulated double-paned construction to energy-efficient window tinting.
Depending on when your home was constructed and how recently your windows were installed, you may be missing out on this advanced technology. If you have single-pane windows, an old, warped window frame, or notice the sun is making some rooms difficult to cool properly, new windows can help you to save a bundle on your energy costs.
For window installation in Kansas City, contact Smart Exteriors today.
