Windows can do magical things for your home. They can increase protection and comfort, add beautiful curb appeal and save you money on energy bills. But if your windows are nearing their end, it’s important to replace them as soon as you can. Your windows will give you signs when something’s not right, and although many windows are manufactured to last for decades, factors such as your location and nature’s elements can come into play. If your windows are more than a few decades old, here are 5 signs they need to be replaced!
1. Your Windows are Leaking, Warped or Broken
If your windows are leaking, warped or broken, it’s time to replace them ASAP! While you can repair issues such as damaged weather-stripping or hardware, there are times when replacing is better than repairing. Pay attention to what your windows are telling you. If you notice they’re letting water in, they’re fogging up, they’re drafty, or they’re sticking when you open and close them, it’s likely time to replace your windows. Also look for problems such as mold and mildew, and air quality issues that are signaling a bigger problem.
2. Your Window Frames are Decaying
A telltale sign that your windows need replacing is when the frames are decaying. If they’re soft, chipped or water damaged, they’re most likely damaged beyond repair. Touch your window frames to check if they’re soft. If they are, it signals rot and water infiltration which can lead to sagging. Built up moisture can lead to more serious damage down the road and even safety issues, so make sure to replace them before more damage is done!
3. Your Energy Bills Have Skyrocketed
If you’ve noticed your energy bills are higher than usual, it could mean that your windows aren’t working like they should. Drafty windows can increase your energy bill up to 25%, which is a huge waste of money. Energy efficient windows work to decrease your heating and cooling costs, so even though new windows will be an investment upfront, they’ll pay off in the long run!
4. Your Windows Are Letting in Sound
If you’re windows are letting in a lot of noise from the outdoors, it may be time to replace them. Your windows should keep out the noise pollution to make your home as comfortable as possible. This is especially important if you live in a busy neighbourhood or on busy road as outside noise can be a huge pain. If the outdoor noise is getting unbearable, it likely means your windows are at their end.
5. You’re Renovating Your Home
New windows can do wonders for a home renovation. Your windows are one of the most striking features of your home, and if they look old or worn down, they can affect the entire look of your house. If you’re renovating your home, new windows are a must (unless they’ve been recently replaced). Look for things like colour fading, old screens and window warping as signs that they need to be upgraded. These aspects detract from the curb appeal of your home, while features like large, open windows can add to the aesthetic of your home.
If you’ve noticed any of these issues with your windows, it may be time to replace them. Head to your local Gentek dealer to find the perfect windows for you!