Warning Signs That You Need to Replace Your Windows

Replacing windows in your home is a big investment. The type of material used, how many windows you’re replacing, the area you live and the size of your home all play into the overall cost.

New windows often save you some money on energy bills and increase the resale value of your home. While you’ll only save about 10 percent per year on your heating and cooling costs, you can recoup about 73 percent of the cost of replacement when you sell your home. Still, thousands of dollars isn’t an easy purchase decision, so how can you know if it’s time to replace your windows? Here are five warning signs to watch for:

1. High Energy Bills

Has the cost of your electric and gas gone up and up over time? The culprit may be from drafts via old windows. Heat gain and loss accounts for about 30 percent of the heating and cooling costs for most homes. Sure, you can do a few things to old windows to help avoid so much loss, but adding double or triple panes and more energy-efficient options is the only way to reduce the drafts and increase energy efficiency in your home.

2. Interior Condensation

Condensation occurs on windows when the interior and exterior temperatures are different and there is access to moisture. If the condensation is on the outside of your windows, this may simply be a sign that your home is well insulated.

However, when it occurs on the inside, it can be caused by poor window quality and can cause other problems such as mold growth. Pay careful attention to where the fogging occurs so you know if it’s time to inspect your windows more carefully.

3. Cracks or Holes in the Glass

If the glass in your windows is damaged, they are not performing at peak and the blemish may expand over time. You might only need to replace a few windows that were damaged in a hail storm or it might just be time to replace all the windows in your home and upgrade to higher quality material.

4. Damaged Frames

Are the frames around your windows damaged? Installing new windows and, in the process, repairing framing can make your house much more energy-efficient. Some professionals can repair rotted frames and others prefer to replace the whole thing. Talk to a professional before deciding on the best course of action for your home today and in the near future.

5. Ugly Windows

Are your current windows horrendously ugly? Perhaps the glazing is messed up or the windows simply look strange on your house style. Installing new windows adds a modern touch to your home and gives you an opportunity to add style options such as muntins (also known as grids).

New windows may add security to your home if you have windows that open too easily or don’t have strong locks. An aesthetically pleasing exterior adds to your house’s overall curb appeal.

When It’s Time to Replace

When you do decide to replace your windows, gather several estimates and study the windows on other homes. What do you like and what do you dislike based on your house’s style? Also consider style features, such as if you want a bay window in the front of your house or grids on your windows. Do you want the windows to tilt in for easy cleaning? Once you’ve gathered all the pertinent information, it’s time to purchase and enjoy your new windows.

About  The Author: Holly Welles is a home & garden writer. She shares more advice on creating beauty in your home on her own blog, The Estate Update, and on Twitter.