Is It Time? 10 Signs Your Windows Need to be Replaced
Whether your home is more than 20 years old and still has its original windows, you are looking for ways to improve energy efficiency, or you want to increase your home’s curb appeal, you are probably considering replacing your windows.
While some signs are obvious, like cracked window frames, other warning signs that it’s time for an upgrade can be harder to spot.
How do you know when it’s time to replace windows?
Here are 10 signs your windows need to be replaced:
- Sticking
- Condensation
- Frame Damage
- Damp Walls
- Drafts
- Room Temperature Differences
- Rising Energy Costs
- Fading Furniture
- Increased Street Noise
- Age
1. Sticking
If your windows stick and are difficult to open or close, it could be a sign that your frame is beginning to warp. Over time, window frames exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture, or that were improperly installed can begin to lose their shape. In addition to the frustration of sticking, windows that are difficult to open can become a safety hazard during emergencies.
2. Condensation
A light layer of condensation on the inside of a windowpane is normal in humid environments or when there are extreme temperature differences inside vs. outside of the home. However, condensation between multi-pane glass is indicative of a larger issue.
Moisture build-up between windowpanes is often a sign that a seal has failed. When this occurs, outside air and moisture are allowed in reducing the window’s energy efficiency.
3. Frame Damage
Visible frame damage is a clear indicator that it’s time to replace your windows. Rusting metal, splitting vinyl, and soft spots in wood are all signs of deterioration.
In addition to reducing curb appeal, damaged frames create an opportunity for moisture and pests to make their way into your home, potentially leading to more costly repairs and structural damage down the road.
4. Damp Walls
If the paint around your windows looks wet after it rains, you likely have a leaky frame. If left unaddressed, leaks around window frames can lead to drywall damage and mold issues. Fully replacing the window with a properly fitted and sealed frame is your best option for preventing future damage.
5. Drafts
Some drafts can be obvious, like curtains blowing when the air isn’t running, while other are harder to spot. If you put your hand up to your window and feel a significant difference in temperatures around the edges, you may have a hidden draft.
Drafts and small leaks are often signs that of deteriorating window seals or warping frames. While gaps can be temporarily filled, full replacement is the best option for a long-term solution that improves energy efficiency.
6. Room Temperature Differences
If your notice rooms in your home feeling hotter or colder during certain seasons/temperatures than they have in the past, it could be sign that outside air is making its way into your home.
Single pane windows and windows with failing weather seals allow hot and cold air to pass through more easily, causing heating and cooling systems to work harder.
7. Rising Energy Costs
Windows can be a main source of energy loss for a home. If your energy bills start increasing with no clear reason as to why, and your windows are more than 15 years old, they’re a likely culprit.
Check for signs of frame damage, leaks, condensation or drafts. If you notice any of these, replacing your windows with new energy-efficient models will help reduce your energy consumption.
8. Fading Furniture
Even if your windows appear energy-efficient, they may not be protecting against UV rays. Modern windows include features like Lowe-E coatings that block ultraviolet rays and protect flowing and furniture from UV damage.
9. Increased Street Noise
Well-insulated windows help reduce street noise. If the sounds of neighbors talking, barking dogs, or traffic suddenly become louder, your windows may no longer be insulating your home as effectively.
Older single-pane windows offer especially poor insulation. Replacing these with multi-pane energy efficient windows can help make your home both quieter and more comfortable.
10. Age
Window technology is always changing and advancing. No matter how high-quality a window is, it will at some point become less energy efficient. As a general rule of thumb, windows should be evaluated for replacement needs every 15-20 years.
Even if there are no visible signs of damage, upgrading older windows can significantly improve a home’s energy efficiency.