You know that today’s high-efficiency windows make sense for so many reasons — comfort, appearance, energy savings and resale value high among them. But windows are a big investment, so when do you know that the time has come to replace them?
If your home is older and has original single pane windows, you’ll benefit greatly by replacing them with a superior product like Gentek’s Regency high-efficiency windows. Single pane windows do little to keep out the cold in the winter and the hot sun in summer, so replacing them will substantially boost your home’s energy efficiency.
High-efficiency, ultra-violet ray-blocking windows can also help reduce fading of your furniture, carpet, window treatments and artwork — and extend their life.
Another thing to remember: not all of your windows need to be replaced at the same time. Every one you replace will add comfort to your home, so if you can’t afford to do it all at once, start with the ones that most need replacing.
Here are four clear signs that it’s time to replace your windows:
1. Wet Look: Condensation is a big tell. Water droplets or frost on the glass usually mean the window’s interior seal has failed, and your air conditioner or furnace is having to work extra-hard to cool or heat your home.
2. Blow Out: Drafts mean cool air is escaping from your home and hot air is getting in. Slowly wave a lighted candle around the edges of your windows. If the flame flickers, it’s a signal that your windows are drafty and it’s time to upgrade to more energy-efficient windows.
3. Sticky Situation: Windows that don’t open easily or no longer open at all can pose a significant danger in case of an emergency. Rollers and guides wear out over time and it’s no fun fighting with a window every time you want to open or close it.
4. Peace & Quiet: Can you hear too much outdoor noise when you’re in the house? New windows with two panes of glass and an energy-efficient air space in between help deaden the outdoor noise.
If you think it’s time to replace some or all of your windows, you owe it to yourself to check out Regency High-Performance Windows from Gentek. For the fourth straight year, Regency windows are among the select windows designated by the Canadian government’s ENERGY STAR program as ‘Most Efficient,’ for meeting rigorous ENERGY STAR performance criteria.