How Do I Know If My Windows Need Replacing?

Residential windows and doors are a major component of your home’s security, they also will affect the amount of energy used in your home. When not in top condition, your windows and doors can become a security risk and will reduce your home’s efficiency. There are additional benefits that also get reduced when your windows and doors are not their best structural and working conditions, such as aesthetic appeal and ease of use.

In most cases, home owners are not able to identify when their windows and doors begin to underperform. To help you identify when your windows and or doors need replacing, we asked our expert to share their top indicators.

Here is what they said to look out for:

1. Difficulty Opening, Closing

A good time of year to test your windows and doors operation is in spring time. This is when many homeowners clean their windows, it’s called spring cleaning for a reason! Fully opening your windows and doors is part of the cleaning process, if you are not able to open or close your windows or doors effortlessly, and additional force is required should be taken as an indicator that something is not quite right.

2. Drafts and Leaks

When you feel drafts of cold or hot air coming from around your windows or doors, it is an indicator that the seals either around the frame or around the moving components have worn down. Not only does this mean that air can pass through, but water may also be able to sneak into your home through these tiny spaces. Air entering your home from around your windows and doors can lead to hot or cold spots in your home and increased energy costs due to the continuous use of your heating or air conditioning systems. Water on the other hand can lead to additional damage of your wall, and floors. Do not ignore your drafty windows, they can become a bigger issue very quickly.

3. Loss of Soundproofing Quality

If outdoor noise now becomes so loud that it affects your sleep or daily routine, your windows have likely lost their soundproofing properties that help to shut outdoor noises out of your home previously. If you are now able to hear passing by vehicles or people talking as they walk by when you weren’t able to previously, replacing your windows will help prevent that noise from disturbing you in the future.

4. High Energy Bills

As mentioned above, windows and doors that have broken down seals allow for air to pass through. This can lead to increased energy consumption and utility bills. If your utility bills suddenly increase, it could mean one or more of your windows and doors have become compromised. Check your windows for drafts by holding a candle near them, if the flame is perfectly still, there is no draft. If the flame begins to dance around, you know that air is sneaking in from around this window or door.

5. Aging Windows

Windows and doors may seem quite simple, but over the past two decades a lot has changed. New materials and methods of manufacturing have led to newer windows and doors being more energy efficient, more secure, longer lasting, and have even led to new designs and ways of operation. If your windows and doors were installed more than 15 – 20 years ago, take a look at what is available now. Your new windows can make your home more comfortable, save you money on your energy bills, and even increase your home’s aesthetic appeal.

The above are just some of the indicators that your windows need replacing. However, before you take the next step, look to a professional windows and doors contractor to come by and take a look. Having an expert opinion will help you make a decision on what type of replacements are best for your family and home.