If your home was built more than 20 years ago and/or you haven’t replaced your existing windows in the past two decades, chances are you’re at the point to start questioning whether or not it’s time to replace your windows. In this post, we answer some of your most commonly asked questions about window replacement:
- How can you know for sure that it’s time to upgrade your windows?
- What problems signs should you look for with older windows?
- How does replacing old windows save money in the long run?
Windows that are no longer serving their purpose are certainly due to be replaced. Afterall, the windows in our home are meant to:
- Admit natural light
- Provide energy efficiency (keeping cold and heat in or out)
- Open easily to let in fresh air
- Keep out sound
- Improve curb appeal and interior aesthetics
- Provide a safe security barrier
If your windows are no longer providing all of these important elements to your home, it’s time to start the conversation with a trusted window provider and installer. But what if you’re not entirely sure whether or not your windows are still performing these essential tasks?
Here are the top 5 signs you need new windows.
- High energy bills
It’s estimated that we can cut our energy bills by up to 30% by ensuring that our windows are energy efficient. Afterall, if your windows are not keeping the heat/cold on the right side of the glass (depending on the season, naturally) then you’re wasting money on heating and cooling.
By doing a simple “touch test” you can check on the efficiency of your current windows.
- Touch your window glass from the inside of your home.
- Your windows should be at your current room temperature if they are working efficiently.
- That means on a cold day, the glass shouldn’t feel cold to the touch, and on a hot day, the glass should be as cool as your air conditioner temperature.
In order to test your window frames and sealing, do a simple “smoke test”.
- Hold a lit candle or incense stick close to your window
- Observe where the smoke goes when you move the flame around the frame (make sure your HVAC vent is not affecting the air flow).
- If the smoke is being sucked out of the window or blown into the room instead of rising gently and naturally,, then there is a draft.
- Stuck
If your windows are difficult to open and your cranks are, well … cranky (ha!) it’s time to replace your windows and frames. Afterall, if you’re not able to let fresh air into the house easily, not only are you losing out on the benefit of healthier indoor air, you’re also missing out on some extra sunlight and curb appeal if it’s difficult to clean the exterior of the window because it’s stuck shut.
Replacing old windows that are difficult or impossible to open will make a major difference in energy efficiency, curb appeal, and comfort in the home. Our clients are often surprised at how much they’d “put up with” poorly operating windows once they experience the smooth operation and new features including partial raise or lift capacity and being able to hinge completely open admit even more air and light.
- Water
It isn’t always easy to spot moisture damage around windows and oftentimes wooden frames are seriously decayed before the problem is visible. Likewise, a leaky window might not sound alarm bells for homeowners until they’ve got mold or mildew problems.
If you notice any signs of moisture or water gathering around or under your windows, you’ve got a clear sign that it’s time to replace your windows. Any delay could cause health and safety problems for you and your family.
- Noise
If you can easily hear outside noises inside your home when the windows are closed, or if the neighbours can hear your television when they’re in the driveway, chances are your windows aren’t offering the amount of soundproofing that they should. Energy efficient windows are designed to absorb sound waves before they enter or leave your home; something to be appreciated by the entire neighbourhood!
- Fog
If your windows are often foggy, hazy, or have condensation building up between the panes, this is a sure sign that your windows’ seals have failed and it’s time to replace them before your windows get too leaky. Don’t think that a leaky window is a big deal? Go back to number 4, please!
Windows are an investment that will increase your home’s value and curb appeal. New windows also boost the natural light, soundproofing, indoor air quality and energy efficiency of your home. Give the window specialists at Renovaction a call to start the conversation about upgrading your windows. We’re happy to answer all of your questions so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s time to replace the windows in your home.
