Your home’s windows stand up to constant pressure and stress; they help insulate your home from outdoor temperatures, they resist foundation settlement and shifting of your wall framing, and they keep rain, snow, sun, and debris out of your living area. Unfortunately, all this stress means that windows will need to be replaced somewhat regularly, but many homeowners don’t know when they need replacement. Below, we’ll discuss six ways to tell if your windows need to be replaced and what each issue means.

1. You Notice Drafts

Windows are meant to minimize the energy transfer between your living space and the outside. However, as windows age, the seal they create gradually fails, and more heat can enter or escape your home’s interior. If you notice drafts coming from your windows in the winter or hot spots around your windows in the summer, it’s time to contact a window replacement company for an upgrade. This will reduce drafts, make your interior space more comfortable, and minimize the strain on your heating and AC systems.

2. Your Energy Bills Are Increasing

A more subtle sign that your windows need replacement is an increasing electric bill. Windows are your first line of defense against the outdoor temperatures, so increasing energy consumption or monthly bills are a clear sign that your window seals have failed. It’s wise to review your energy bills each season to see if your consumption has increased since the previous year. Just remember that you’ll experience natural fluctuations from season to season as you call on your heating and AC system at different times.

3. Your Windows Don’t Operate Normally

If you notice that your window sashes get stuck when you try to open them, or they slam closed and won’t stay open, your windows are likely old enough to warrant replacement. These are relatively minor issues in most cases that can be repaired, but they often only pop up on windows that are a decade or more old. If you start to notice these problems or other issues with normal window functionality, it’s a good sign that replacement will benefit you and help restore your home’s energy efficiency.

4. You Notice Condensation Between the Window Panes

Most modern windows have either double-pane or triple-pane glass, which means there are two or three layers of glass with a vacuum-sealed compartment between them filled with an insulative gas. If the seal between the panes fails, your window’s ability to minimize heat transfer between your living space and the exterior of your home will be diminished.

Along with reduced energy efficiency, you might also notice condensation forming between the panes that you can’t wipe off from the inside or the outside of the window. Windows fog if the interior or exterior temperature is significantly higher or lower than the other. Sealed double-pane and triple-pane windows rarely have condensation because of the added layer of insulation, but a failed seal will leave condensation between the panes. This is a clear sign that you need to replace your windows.

5. Visible Window Damage

It should go without saying that physical damage to your windows means that replacement is necessary. It’s a good idea to inspect your windows for visible damage, including chipped or cracked glass, chipping, peeling, or otherwise damaged window frames, and water spots, water damage, or mold around the wall opening. Any of these issues should trigger you to replace your windows immediately to protect your home and maintain a level of energy efficiency.

6. Outdoor Noises Are Suddenly Louder

Finally, if you notice that your living area is less peaceful, it could mean that your double- or triple-pane windows have failing seals. Insulated windows not only increase your home’s energy efficiency, but they also absorb sounds coming in from outdoors. If you find that neighbor conversations, road noise, or sounds from landscaping equipment are louder than they used to be, it’s a good sign that you need to replace your failing windows.

Window Maintenance Tips to Avoid Issues

Replacing windows can be expensive, so many homeowners will look for ways to minimize how often replacement is required. There are a few things you can do to prolong a window’s lifespan.

First, you can carry out regular cleaning and maintenance, even for issues that are seemingly insignificant. Cleaning the tracks and resealing your windows is a great practice for keeping up your home’s energy efficiency. Opting for a home warranty is often a good way to get this done and minimize costs. Some of the best home warranties are designed to keep your windows functioning properly for decades.

You can also inspect your windows regularly for issues. Look for and report cracking, chipping, peeling, and signs of leaking. Catching these issues early can mean a repair is possible rather than a full replacement.

For more information, contact one of our Windows Professionals at San Lorenzo Lumber and Home Centers.  Visit us at https://www.sanlorenzolumber.com/ or visit one of our convenient store locations.