Windows are a central part of your home’s weatherproofing and curb appeal. But, how do you know if you need new windows?
First, there are two overarching factors to consider: aesthetic appeal and functionality. A properly functioning window seals your home from outside air, keeping it energy efficient and temperature controlled. Aside from the functionality, a window needs to have the aesthetic appeal that you want for your home.
Replacing windows is a big undertaking, so it’s important to have the information you need to make the best decision. Below are five reasons to consider replacing your windows.
5 Signs You Should Replace Your Windows
There are several ways to tell if your windows should be replaced. If your windows are old, drafty, or don’t open properly, it’s a sign they should be replaced. Even if your windows are still perfectly functional, some people choose to replace them when they’re renovating or planning to sell their homes.
Old Windows
The first sign that you should replace your windows is their age. Older windows (which are sometimes single pane) are not as energy efficient as newer windows. In addition, newer windows are better at filtering the sun’s UV rays. Old windows may also have obvious signs of age such as cracks or color fading.
Drafts
A window’s primary purpose is to keep drafts out, whether it’s cold air in the winter or hot air in the summer. If your house feels drafty in the cold Milwaukee winters or hot on a July day, your window might not be functioning correctly. Condensation on the inside of the window or a window that is cold to the touch are other signs of a drafty window.
A higher energy bill is a more subtle sign that a draft may be affecting your home. Drafty windows cause your HVAC system to compensate for the escaping air, causing your energy bill to rise. Newer windows are double or triple-paned and prevent air from escaping, mitigating this problem.
Trouble Opening or Closing
Operating your window should be seamless, and if it isn’t, it’s a sign you should replace it. For example, a double-hung window opens through two vertically sliding sashes, making it easy to open, close, and clean. If this window stops working correctly, its primary functional appeal is gone (and you’re frustrated with a finicky window).
Renovating
If you’re renovating part of your house, you may choose to replace your windows purely for aesthetic reasons. Even if a window is working properly, it may not match the style of the room anymore. So, it’s important to look at different window styles, functionalities, and colors to match the aesthetic of the room. Replacing your windows is a key part of tying a room together and elevates the look of your home; it also allows you to change window types if you wish to do so. In short, a new window can truly transform your space!
Selling Your House
Replacing the windows of your house increases its value. Upgraded windows upgrade the whole house, so this ends up being a sound investment for people looking to sell their homes. You can reasonably expect a 70-85% ROI after purchasing new windows, meaning that if you spend $5,000 to replace them, your ROI would be between $3,500-$4,250. New windows are also a softer selling point, as buyers will understand that window replacements are not an expense they’ll have to worry about in the near future.
It’s worth noting that these are only some of the reasons you may want to replace your windows. You may have other reasons that we didn’t list here!
How Often You Should Replace Your Windows
As previously mentioned, your window’s age is a good first indicator that it needs to be replaced. As a rule of thumb, you should replace windows that are over 20 years old.
Aesthetics Matter
While a cold draft is an obvious sign a window isn’t working properly, we don’t want to discount the importance of your window’s appeal. If you renovate an area of your home, replacing the window with an upgraded design or feature can greatly enhance the enjoyment of your space. Even if the previous window functioned properly, its appeal may no longer be there. This is a perfectly good reason to replace a window.
Need more information about replacing your windows? See what to look for when buying new windows.
Standard Windows & Doors is your go-to window and door installation service in Southeastern Wisconsin. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing you with the dream aesthetic and security you’ve always wanted for your home.
Get a free estimate today!
