Upgrading the windows in your home is a major home improvement project, and not one to be taken lightly. Before you spend thousands of dollars on wood or vinyl replacement windows and disrupt your normal routine while the installation is taking place, you need to think carefully.
Fortunately, your home will likely tell you when it is time to upgrade its windows. Here are nine signs that your current windows could use an upgrade.
1) A spike in your energy bills
If your normally tame heating and cooling costs have grown scary, leaky windows could be to blame. Replacing your old windows with upgraded ones could get those energy costs under control.
2) Cold spots
You can tell a lot by walking around your home on a windy day. If you feel cold air coming in through the windows, it is time to consider an upgrade.
3) Condensation
If you see condensation on your windows, that means they are leaking air – and money. Replacing your old windows with upgraded models can eliminate this condensation and keep your home more comfortable.
4) Visible defects and cracks
Even the best windows will not last forever, and cracks and other visible defects can really add up over time. If you are tired of patching up those cracks and looking at those defects, it may be time for an upgrade.
5) Difficulty in opening and closing
If you find yourself struggling to open and close your windows, they may be nearing the end of their useful life. Over time windows can become harder and harder to open and close, and upgrading them could make your life easier.
6) An increase in noise
Your windows do more than keep cold air out and warm air in; windows also reduce the amount of noise that enters your home’s interior. If your neighborhood seems noisier than it used to be, it could be your windows.
7) Decayed wood frames
Even if your windows themselves are still in good shape, decayed and damaged frames could let air in and spike your energy bills. Check your window frames carefully for signs of damage and think about replacing any problem windows.
8) Sale plans
If you plan to sell your home, upgrading the windows could be a wise investment. Buyers love new windows, and the increase in the sale price could more than pay for the cost of the windows.
9) Your current windows are single pane
Single pane windows used to be state of the art, but no longer. Double pane windows carry a host of benefits, from easier operation to greater energy efficiency.
Final Thoughts
The quality of your windows will directly impact many aspects of your home life, from how much you pay to heat and cool your rooms and how comfortable (or not) your family is, to how easy it will be to sell your home down the line. If you need to know if it is time to upgrade your windows, just listen to your home and what it has to say. If you listen carefully, your home will tell you when it is time for new windows, so watch out for the signals listed above.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
