10 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Home’s Windows
There are a variety of benefits that come with replacing your home’s windows. Whether you want to add comfort, cut down on your energy bills or increase your home’s value, here are ten signs that it’s time to get rid of your windows and replace them with modern upgrades.
Worn Out Windows
If you have noticed warping or signs of rot on your windows, these are huge indicators that they need to be replaced as soon as possible. If you have wooden window frames, trying to maintain them and keep them in good condition can be challenging. While they look fantastic when installed, they can soon begin to rot if you don’t take care of them. The problem is, once the rot has set, it can become too difficult a job to sort out. Therefore, replacing the window altogether can not only save you time, but money too.
High Energy Bills
Old windows in the home can have a major impact on how well insulated your home is, resulting in higher energy bills. The more heat that can escape your home, the more likely you are to turn on the central heating, which can end up being costly at the end of the month. To get a better idea, stand next to your window and check whether it feels colder than other parts of the room. If you find that the glass is cold when you touch it, the chances are you are wasting energy.
Difficult to Open and Close
If you are struggling with opening and closing your windows, you should get them replaced, especially as it could be an escape route that you need to use should an emergency arise. There are all sorts of reasons as to why your windows have become next to impossible to open and close. One of the most common reasons is if they have been painted shut. With new uPVC windows, for example, there is no need to re-paint them each year.
Soundproofing
If your windows aren’t modern, it’s likely that you can hear loud noises from outside. Modern windows are created to reduce the sound transfer from the outside world which can make a massive difference to your overall quality of life, especially if you live on a busy road. If you can hear the hustle and bustle from outside when the window is shut, it’s likely because your window is old and in need of a replacement. Being able to relax in the comfort of your own home is essential, therefore you should pick windows that are great for noise reduction.
Drafty Windows
While we already know how drafty windows can have a huge impact on your energy bills, you may not realize that a draft can come in if the window does not shut properly. If you find that the locking mechanism is broken, this may be the root cause. This can also pose a security issue too, so it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your home from burglars.
Windows are Leaking
If you have noticed condensation building up on the inside of your windows, this can be another cause for concern. When moisture seeps through the panes in double glazed windows, it may be time to get a new replacement. While you can wipe condensation away, the process can become tiresome, especially if you have to do it on a frequent basis. What’s more, you may notice a build-up of mold forming on the frame too. Moisture and mist that’s inside the window glass cannot be resolved either, meaning it will stay there and block the light and obstruct your view. These types of issues typically happen when the seals of the window have gone. Repairs can be incredibly expensive, so it may be best to get a new window altogether.
Update to Double Glazing
It’s important to take the time to analyze your windows. If you have ever wondered why your home is always cold in winter or very hot in the summer months, it could be because you have single pane windows rather than double glazed windows. Single pane windows are commonly found in older properties, which can make your home uncomfortable. To ensure your home stays insulated, it’s best to invest in double glazing.
Renovation Work
If you have recently moved into an historic home, you may find that the property has vinyl replacement windows which can detract from the historic charm of the home. The overall look and feel of an historic home can be dramatically changed if you have the wrong windows in place. Therefore, installing historically accurate replacement windows may be the best option to take. You can enlist the help of professionals like GVD Renovations who can provide energy efficient durable windows.
Protection from Weather
If you reside in an area that’s prone to blizzards and storms, it’s important that you have windows that can protect you from all types of weather conditions. If you have old windows, the damage caused by a storm can be substantial. Therefore, to keep your home safe and protected, you should invest in windows that are durable and long-lasting.
Increasing Your Home’s Value
If you are putting your home on the market, there are all sorts of ways on how you can increase your home’s value. When prospective buyers look around your home, they will want to know they are getting good value for money, so having modern windows fitted can make a huge difference and help sell your home. Have a look at other properties in your area to see what type of windows they have so you can find the right windows for your home.
If any of the signs listed are things you can identify with, it’s may be time to replace your home’s windows. The cost of the job will vary on how many windows you have, so it’s always best to draw up a plan first, as well as having a budget in place. Your home should be the one place where you feel the most relaxed and comfortable, so ensure you pick windows that are double glazed to keep the draft out.