The windows and doors that you own, when in the right shape, positively affect the structural integrity of your home. These parts of your home separate your living area from the harmful outside conditions and also provides security for you and your family. People tend to overlook the importance of windows and doors, as well as the physical state that they are in. It is common for people to think that “okay-looking” will perform at the same level as newer, more healthy windows. This mindset tends to lead to more damaged windows later down the road, which will not only take more time to fix or replace, but it will also take more money. That is why it is best to regularly maintain your windows and doors and replace them as soon as possible when you begin to notice the 10 warning signs that will be listed down below.
1. Drafts
Is it possible for you to hear the gusts of wind that are coming from outside? Is it possible that you are feeling cold because of the air that is seeping through the frames of your windows? If you believe so, you must try holding a napkin to the window or door frame and to check whether it quivers or not. If your tissue does move when placed there, then it is best that you replace your windows and doors as soon as you can because their frames have dealt with various damages. If your windows are in really terrible conditions, you may even be able to see light streaming through holes in the frame. Drafty windows will be more evident in the colder months when chilly air is pouring into your home. As a result, your furnace will be working extra to maintain the air inside your house at a reasonable temperature, which is not something you want since this will lead to more expensive bills. It is recommended that you take care of this problem as soon as you notice to avoid any further damages or problems.
2. Increased Energy Bills
Your energy cost will undoubtedly rise as your furnace works extra to compensate for your draughty windows. These high energy expenses will also occur throughout the summer as your air conditioner works to keep your house cool. You should consider how much wasted energy and money is being thrown away. Not only are you wasting money, but you are also creating and experiencing an uncomfortable living environment in your home. With that being said, investing in new windows will be beneficial and once you do, you’ll notice significant savings on your energy cost.
3. Poor Functionality
As previously stated, ill-fitting windows can raise your energy expenses while also causing draughts, leaks, and other major problems. As a result, the increased difficulty in functioning your windows is the second most typical warning indication that they should be replaced. There are several reasons why your windows may be difficult to open and close, but here are some of the most prevalent ones. To begin with, improperly placed windows will severely impair their functionality. You may inspect your windows for any noticeable gaps between the frame and the sill. Furthermore, if your windows’ sashes do not shut and open correctly, they must be replaced. This might be owing to the window sash’s improper alignment, size, or weight. If the job is not done properly, the paint on your windows will also damage their functionality. Additionally, the foundations of your home may have shifted, causing the window frame to no longer fit correctly in the area. This might be another reason why they are not operating properly.
4. Single Pane Windows
Single-pane windows provide no protection from outside conditions or soundproofing. Furthermore, this type of window is inefficient in terms of energy efficiency, as well. Whatever the outside temperature is, your furnace and air conditioner will be fighting hard against your single pane windows to keep the inside of your home comfortable. If you still have single-pane windows in your house, it is best that you consider upgrading to double- or triple-glazed windows because these windows have more benefits to bring to the table. If you do upgrade, you’ll experience very positive impacts on yourself and your home. For instance, you will see a difference in your energy costs, an increase in the value of your property, and a reduction in your carbon footprint.
5. Leakage From Windows
Leakage is one of the most serious signs that your windows need to be replaced. It usually happens as a result of poor pane seals or frame sealant, a misaligned window sash, or closing gaps or fractures in your walls. It is important to note that poor seals do not necessarily indicate that water is pouring into your home; nevertheless, they do indicate that your window has lost its insulating gas, which has a significant impact on energy efficiency. To find out if your windows and doors are leaking, simply inspect the following aspects. The parts that you should inspect are the window sill, the bottom rails, the glass seal, the top of the window or door frame and any evidence of moisture.
6. Moisture Build-Up
To improve insulation, double-glazed windows have argon or krypton gas pumped between the panes. That is why double or triple glazed windows are better than single panes. To limit heat transfer and obtain the argon and krypton gas, an airtight barrier should be installed between the panes of the glass. If this seal is damaged, moisture will eventually collect on the inside of the outside pane of glass, which has the coolest surface. A damaged seal indicates that your windows need to be replaced.
7. Window Parts Discontinued
Whether it’s a broken or cracked hinge cap on your window or specialists running up blocks, there will come a time when even the largest window firms will be unable to assist you in repairing your windows owing to the age of a certain window type. If your old window or door is broken and requires an outdated part to be repaired, you have two options: 3D print the part and replace it with the damaged one, or replace the broken windows entirely with new ones. It is recommended to choose the second option because this will take less time, less effort and will reassure you that you won’t need replacing for a while.
8. Windows that aren’t Soundproof
The sound of early birds does not necessarily indicate a calm morning, especially if it is followed by a deafening chorus of traffic and cars. Noise pollution, defined as a negative influence on a person’s physical and psychological health, has been identified as one of the primary causes for window replacement. Even with typical triple glazing, peace of mind is not assured since, if not properly maintained, putting two-three panes of glass can actually exacerbate noise and surface movement. That is why, rather of doing it yourself, we recommend hiring a professional contractor to evaluate your windows, walls, and floors for sound leakage and take any further steps with them.
9. Visible Damage
Your windows are continuously exposed to the elements, including strong winds and rain, cold temperatures, and dangerous UV radiation. It is best that you c heck for cracks in the glass and water damage on a regular basis. You may see evidence of warping on the frames of your window or the glass of your windows getting cloudy to the point that you can no longer see through them. Windows are intended to supply our houses with ventilation, circulation, and light and if any of them are damaged and not properly executing these features, then it’s time to replace them.
10. Hard to Clean Windows
If residential windows are not adequately maintained within the first decade, their lifespan might be cut in half or even more. Unfortunately, many window types make cleaning exceedingly difficult, if not hazardous. For example, you may need to bend out of your way to clean a window or climb a ladder to reach inaccessible areas, all of which might increase your risk of injury. Many newer windows, such as Tilt & Turn windows, use innovative technology such as a flexible opening mechanism that allows you to obtain access to the window’s outside. So, replacing your old windows with these new modern ones may be a good option to choose.
Carefully maintaining and replacing your windows and doors when needed is an important task of all homeowners. By doing so, you are not only reinforcing the structural integrity of your home, but you are also protecting you and your family from any outside dangers. To figure out whether or not your windows and doors need replacing, you will need to inspect them for any warning signs. These warning signs include drafts, increased energy bills, poor functionality, your windows being single paned, leakage, moisture build-up, discontinued replacement parts, weak soundproofing, visible damage and your windows being hard to clean. If you notice any of these indications, then it is best to contact a local, trusted contractor and get the problem fixed right away.