When should a home’s windows be replaced? It’s a big question and one that we tend to put off because we are worried about the cost of replacement. But it’s an essential question and good windows can even save you money. To help you answer this question, the following blog post has identified some tips and clues that will give you the straight goods. You’ll then be able to better understand the impact of keeping old windows on your energy consumption.
Fogging thermos windows
One of the clues that can give you a clue is undoubtedly windows that start to fog up. This is a sign that the sealant has deteriorated. Fogged windows are a sign that air and moisture are getting in between the two panes and getting trapped. This is what causes condensation. The gas that is contained in the thermos, argon, dilutes with the air that penetrates. This is a problematic situation since air is much less effective than argon in insulating a window. This is how the window loses all its energy efficiency. This loss not only affects your comfort, but also your energy consumption and your electricity bill.
If your windows are all the same age and one starts to fog up, it is likely that the others will soon follow suit. You should therefore consider changing all your windows, as this is a sign that the sealants are drying out and that your windows are getting old. If you don’t change your windows, the problem will persist and your electricity bill will continue to rise while your comfort level will plummet.
Check for air infiltration
You can also check the weatherstripping in the window frames. When the weatherstripping runs out, warm air comes out and cold air goes directly into the house because there is no longer an insulating barrier between the inside and outside. To find out if the weather stripping is damaged, put your hand near the frame and check to see if you can feel the cold air coming through. It’s normal to feel a cooler temperature, but not to feel an actual blast of cold air. You can also pass the flame of a lighter near the window frame. If the flame flickers, you’ll be fixed, the weatherstripping won’t do its job and you’ll have to change the windows.
Window Mechanism
Have you checked to see if a window is difficult to open or close? If so, your windows are probably badly worn and need to be replaced. Windows that are difficult to open or close are an indication that the mechanism is defective and that the windows may not be as airtight as they once were. The frame may have shifted, for example. If the window is no longer perfectly seated in its frame, air infiltration can obviously occur. In fact, take a good look at your window frames. Especially if they are made of wood. If the paint is peeling, it is likely that the wood is taking on moisture and the frames are rotting. This moisture and rot can again cause the window to pop out of its frame and no longer do its job.
If you are concerned about the efficiency of your windows, don’t hesitate to call on renovation experts who can guide you in making the best choices. Changing your windows is an important investment, but you will save a lot of money on your electricity bill while gaining in comfort.
