Imagine waking up to a sunlit room, feeling the gentle breeze, and enjoying the serene view outside—all thanks to your windows.
These essential elements not only enhance your home’s functionality and energy efficiency but also offer protection, privacy, and noise reduction.
Windows play a vital role in our everyday lives, yet we often overlook their importance until they show signs of wear and tear.
In some cases, repairs are no longer sufficient or cost-effective. When this happens, the best step forward is to replace your windows. It’s best to hire an experienced repair company whether you intend to replace your basement window, family room, or bedroom window.
If you’re wondering when it’s more practical to choose replacement over repairs, here are a few pointers:
Significant Damage
One of the primary indicators that it’s time to replace a window is if it’s severely damaged beyond repair or when repairing it won’t be enough to restore its original integrity and strength.
Mostly, the damage results from old age or poor installation, but it could also be from extreme weather conditions or excessive external force like a blunt or heavy object breaking through the glass.
Whatever the cause, you must replace them immediately to avoid further issues, such as structural damage and security risks. That said, here are more specific indicators for significant damage:
Broken Frames And Glasses
The obvious sign that your window is damaged and requires replacement is broken glasses and frames.
Chips, cracks, and shattered glasses make your home accessible to allergens and insects and may also undermine your home’s energy efficiency.
For this reason, significantly damaged frames and glasses require immediate replacement to protect your home from potentially harmful external elements.
Unusual Condensation And Drafts
Another sign of damaged windows is high condensation. While window condensation is natural under certain weather conditions, especially in winter, excessive or unusual amounts during warmer seasons may indicate broken window seals and frames.
Drafts, on the other hand, can result from poor insulation around the window frame or poor window sealing, which can lead to decreased energy efficiency and higher energy costs.
In minor cases, using a dehumidifier can eliminate excessive window condensation. However, if the problem worsens, it’s best to consult a professional to see if a replacement is needed.
Gaps Between The Joints And Frame
It’s time to replace your window if you notice gaps between the joints and frame. These gaps may result from decay, loose caulking, and broken seals.
While small gaps can be fixed with sealant or caulking, larger gaps or extensive damage may require window replacement.
Operating Issues
Damaged windows may also result in operational problems, which may make it challenging to open and close the window.
Issues with window operation can stem from problems with the window’s hardware, like hinges, locks, or balances. In some cases, replacing the hardware might resolve the issue, but in other cases, a full window replacement may be necessary due to broken or decayed frames.
The above signs are indications that your window may be damaged severely enough to require a replacement. However, not all damages require replacements. It’s essential to consult with a professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
Extensive Wear And Tear
Depending on the materials, the average lifespan of windows is about 15-20 years, after which they may fail to operate efficiently, especially when you don’t maintain them properly.
Aside from the type and quality of materials used, weather conditions will also affect the windows’ lifespan. But beyond their expected lifespan, your windows may show more extensive signs of wear and tear.
Replacing old, worn-out windows may also help reduce your energy bills, enhance your home’s safety and comfort, and improve your home’s aesthetics and appearance.
Increased Energy Bills
According to the Department of Energy, heat loss from windows is responsible for 25-30% of residential cooling and heating energy use during cold and warm seasons. This means that windows play a crucial role in energy conservation in your home.
However, worn-out or damaged windows waste energy as they allow cooled and heated air to escape the room. In such cases, you’ll likely have to use coolers and heaters on higher levels just to maintain a conducive environment, increasing your energy bills.
Outdated And Unappealing Windows
Another possible reason to replace your windows is when the current design is outdated and unappealing.
For one, it’ll improve your curb appeal due to their poor condition and mismatched style. As mentioned, windows wear and tear over time, making them appear unattractive, old, and poorly maintained, which may give an impression that you don’t take care of your property.
For this reason, you may want to replace the outdated windows with a more contemporary style that complements your home’s overall design and aesthetics.
Loud Outside Noises
Another sign it’s time to replace your window is the penetration of loud voices from outside. Windows help in sound control by reducing the amount of noise that enters the house. Damaged and old windows, however, may fail to do this.
Therefore, if you hear too much noise from the kids playing or people chattering in the streets, consider checking your window for a replacement.
Conclusion
The above guide offers helpful pointers on when it’s best to replace your windows instead of repairing them.
However, you should note that this will also depend on the extent of the damage. Many factors contribute to the performance and functionality of the window, and you may want to consider getting a professional opinion before resorting to a replacement.
