Whether used to provide natural light into your home, give you a beautiful view of the outdoors, or help you feel like you aren’t trapped in a box, windows are an essential part of a home. Windows come in all shapes and sizes and many different designs. They allow you to bring fresh air into your home and save you lots of money on energy bills. 

However, windows do not last a lifetime and need to be adequately taken care of. It has been found that you should replace your windows every 15 to 20 years. Let’s look at the top five signs that it is time for a window replacement. 

1. Visible Damage

If you notice any cracks, warping, decay, or broken parts to your windows, it may be a good idea to replace them. Visible damage can be caused by various things such as a storm, a ball, a sharp object being thrown at the window, or just because of its old age. Windows that are noticeably damaged should be replaced quickly before break-ins, or other problems occur. 

2. Large Energy Bill

It may not be noticeable at the time, but when you find that your energy bill has significantly increased, it may be because of drafty windows. Research proves that drafty windows are one of the leading causes of an increase in energy bills. Energy.gov says that your energy bill can increase by 10% or 25% because of a rise in heat or cold air due to faulty windows. In the summer months, drafty windows can cause more heat to come into your home, amping up your air conditioner to keep the heat out of your home or the opposite in the winter. It may not even be evident that you have draft windows; therefore, keeping an eye on your energy bill for any significant increases is essential.   

3. Poor Window Operation

If you find that you have trouble opening and closing your windows or the lock is not working correctly, it may also be a sign that you should replace your windows. The seal on your windows could be working incorrectly, creating a higher chance of break-ins and making your home less secure. 

4. Moisture Build Up 

Many homes nowadays have double-paned windows because they are thicker and help save energy and money. However, if the glass does not have an airtight seal, it could allow moisture to develop between the panes. This moisture can result in damage to your windows and has the potential to generate mold over time. Moisture in the form of condensation or frost can also appear inside your windows if there is a broken seal. 

5. Curb Appeal

When looking to sell your home, it may be useful to replace your windows if they are old or not energy efficient. New windows increase the appearance of your home and enhance its curb appeal; they also help increase the value of your home. Older windows often don’t look as beautiful and can have unknown issues that are not apparent to the owner, such as sound insulation if you are used to the noises. Home buyers are also interested in homes where they can save money, and newer windows can save them money on their energy bills. According to the National Association of Home Builders, energy-efficient windows are ranked desirable by 90% of home buyers. If you are looking to sell in the near future, it may be a good idea to upgrade your windows. 

If you or someone you know is in need of a window replacement, contact us today (502)-341-4415 to get a free quote!

For any questions or comments, please feel free to email us at jwest@newlookroofs.com, we hope you have a great day and thanks for reading! 

- Julian