When it comes to our homes, every part of it is something we cherish. We want our kitchen to be perfect for our cooking, we need our bedrooms comfortable, and we need our bathrooms clean. However, we sometimes often neglect the unsung heroes of maintaining our home, such as plumbing, our roof, our doors and in this case, our windows. Our windows are not permanent things that will be sturdy for the rest of our lives. Sometimes their qualities erode and may in need of replacing. Here are some signs on how to know when old windows may need replacing.
1. Your Windows Show Damage
Sometimes, windows still find themselves repairable, and might save you costs. However, there really are situations that there’s no way we can repair them and have to replace them. This happens especially if our windows are damaged, broken, or warped.
- Check for damages in parts such as the window sash or the window frame itself. Even if the window itself is operable, if these parts are damaged, consider finding a replacement immediately.
- If your windows tend to be foggy even without a draft, or if they stick to the surface when you try to open them, then this might be a sign that your windows need to be replaced.
2. Your Energy Bill Needs To Be Lower
If you are saving up because energy bills are becoming higher, then it might be a good idea to replace your windows. Remember, windows provide some form of heat in cold weather by keeping heat it, and sometimes drafty windows can even increase your bills by as much as 10 to 25% higher than expected.
- Try to find more energy-efficient windows for your household. There are a wide variety of windows available for your usage, and it’s all a matter of finding the right fit depending on your home’s specifications. Do you want to get more heat in, or more heat out? Try to ask these questions.
- However, always remember that just because someone claims a window is “energy efficient” means it’s fit for everything. Try to make use of what you know about your location in order to find the window that is the best fit. Some windows work best when they’re used in your house’s north, while others work best in some directions.
3. Your Home Needs a Makeover
If you’re in the process of renovation, especially if you want a new look or if you’re doing repairs after a calamity, then this might be the perfect time to replace your doors as well. Remember, windows are very prominent features of your home, so it’s essentially to replace them when needed as they can have an impact on your house’s durability and appearance.
- Good design is very important to make sure your house stays whole for a long time. Design considerations have to fit your practical standards when it comes to finding windows that are fit for your home, so not only should you get appealing windows, you should get sturdy ones as well.
- Try to find windows made of extremely durable materials so they can withstand the effects of various calamities in the future. This means try to find fiberglass windows that can resist temperatures and corrosion, as this is very handy for your windows in the future.
- Replacing windows are essential especially if you live in a historic home and you want to renovate it. If your ancestral home suffers from what you think is vinyl replacement, then choosing the wrong window can be extremely harmful to the ancestral vibe of your home. This doesn’t mean you can slack off when choosing windows. Try to find historically-accurate versions of the windows you’re using, and luckily some companies specialize in doing just that.
Do Not Just Replace
However, just because you think your windows need replacing means you really have to do it instantly. You have to make sure you plan your moves carefully in order to make sure your window replacements are appropriate and long-lasting.
- Try to see if your window replacements are in line for your budget and your goals. If your objective is to make sure your home becomes energy-efficient, try to assess how much money you can save on energy bills, and if the risk of getting your windows replaced is worth the costs and rewards you’ll get.
- Understanding these various factors carefully and making an informed decision about replacing your windows from a place like Scelta Windows can be a great investment for the longevity of your home.
Conclusion
It is important to remember that windows do not last forever, and they have their so-called “shelf limits.” While windows make up a large part of maintaining the outer appearance of our home, maintained and new windows are still the best when it comes to protecting our indoors from rain and other forms of exterior threats. Maintaining and replacing windows from time to time can ensure you’re protected in your own home.
About the Author: Joe Minardi
Owner/President
I am the owner and founder of Scelta Windows based out of Tulsa, Oklahoma. I have over 20 plus years of experience, specifically in the residential remodeling and replacement window sales and installation. I launched Scelta Windows to provide choices to customers, along with a commitment to superb customer service. Many Oklahoma residents may remember me from my days co-hosting a home improvement show on KRMG Radio, with Denver Fox. For over 10 years, I enjoyed providing tips to listeners. I have also been featured on many national and local publications and websites with articles and tips related to home improvement and windows.