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5 Signs It’s Time for New Windows

Most of us don’t really think about our home’s windows very often. They’re there, they work, and we’re used to what they look like. Windows, however, play a much bigger part in our everyday lives than we realize. Well-designed and beautiful windows add to and improve your home’s curb appeal, they can drastically increase the amount of natural light that gets let into your home, and they also can improve your energy efficiency. If your windows are old and rundown, it might be time for an upgrade. Here are 5 signs that will tell you when it’s time for new windows.

Most of us don’t really think about our home’s windows very often. They’re there, they work, and we’re used to what they look like. Windows, however, play a much bigger part in our everyday lives than we realize. Well-designed and beautiful windows add to and improve your home’s curb appeal, they can drastically increase the amount of natural light that gets let into your home, and they also can improve your energy efficiency.

If your windows are old and rundown, it might be time for an upgrade. Here are 5 signs that will tell you when it’s time for new windows.

1. High Energy Bills:

If you’re noticing your energy bills are higher than they ought to be, this might be a sign that the warm air in your home is leaking out of your windows. A way to test this is to stand next to your window in a t-shirt. If you feel like the area near your window is cooler than the rest of the house, or if the glass is cold to the touch, this is a big sign that your windows are letting in drafts.

Aside from wasting all that warm air your furnace is pumping out, the money you’re paying for it is literally flying out the window. Sealing up the holes that let in the drafts, or re-caulking the edges will save you lots of money, and keep your house toasty. If the problem is really bad though, consider completely replacing the old windows with something more efficient and modern.

2. Swollen Windows:

Wooden framed windows are notorious for swelling up in extreme weather. If your windows are hard to open or shut, this could be a sign that it’s time for new ones. Your windows should glide smoothly and effortlessly.

3. Rotting Frames:

A common occurrence with wooden frames is the presence of rot and decay. As they are exposed to moisture, they not only begin to decay, but also warp. You may have dealt with a similar problem of warping and decay with your siding. This is all due to moisture. If you see warping and decay, it can lead to leaking windows. This snowball effect can really damage your windows, and waste all your home’s warm or cool air. As soon as you start to see rot and mold, it means it’s time to think about replacing your windows.

4. Soundproofing:

Why is that in older homes, sounds from the outside seem to be so much louder? Single-pane windows were commonly used in older homes, and they transfer sound vibrations from the street into your home much faster and louder than windows designed to absorb sound. If you live near a busy road or in the city and can’t seem to escape the noise pollution, it would be wise to consider energy efficient and sound absorbing windows.

5. Condensation:

If you regularly see condensation building up on your window panes, this is a sure sign that you need new windows. In the colder months, you might also see ice or frost build up on the inside of your windows, even though they are closed and locked. The presence of this type of moisture is hazardous as it can cause mold to grow on the entire frame, seriously impacting the integrity of the frame. Condensation is a definite sign that you need to get new windows.

Once you’ve decided to replace your windows, you’ll want to look into the common types of windows that contractors use. Here are some examples:

Casement Windows:

Easily recognizable because of their structure, these windows open outward. They allow light and air into the home, and when closed, creates a tight seal for better energy efficiency. Common in newer homes, they’re perfect in areas like above cabinets, counters, and laundry rooms.

Picture Windows:

If you’re looking for new windows in your bathroom, picture windows are a solid choice. They work great in areas where airflow isn’t as important, but allow for excellent views, and lighting. If used with louvre doors, this type of window is the perfect combination of airflow and light.

Bay Windows:

Bay windows are classically beautiful, create depth and make the room look more architecturally enhanced. Allowing light to enter in different angles, along with excellent airflow between window panes, these types of windows, common in kitchens and living rooms, and both modern and timeless.

Written By

Content writer from Toronto who loves cats, home improvement and internet marketing

1 Comment

1 Comment

  1. Jenna Hunter

    May 16, 2019 at 2:05 am

    I thought it was really interesting that wood frames will not only rot but can also warp the frame. This is really helpful because my husband and I just bought a new home and the windows are looking pretty bad. I want to make sure that if I need to replace a window it will be done by a professional.

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