Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windows

The window industry has been growing exponentially in recent years. It’s worth over $200 billion and is expected to keep booming for another decade. Massive rates of global urbanization have contributed to the growth, but energy efficiency regulations have become another important cause.

The world is moving towards stricter standards and more expansive implementation, so manufacturers have had to rise to the challenge by rolling out innovative approaches to insulation. That’s good news for homeowners who are seeking new ways to reduce their monthly budget. There’s no better time to replace your windows, but do you really need to?

You probably think of your windows as a permanent architectural element, but they’re as prone to aging as any other fixture. You should consider replacing your windows if:

They’re reaching the end of their lifespan

As your windows age, their seals weaken, giving Mother Nature a route into your home. Drafts, leaks, and over-cycling HVAC equipment are all signs that your windows are no longer efficient. At this point, you have two options: Repair the seal or replace the entire window. The age of your structure will tell you which of those two options to choose. If your windows have failed towards the end of their service life, repairing them is like throwing money into a black hole. The next failure will follow swiftly, so consider a replacement if your windows are nearing the point of permanent failure.

• Vinyl windows have a lifespan of 18 to 20 years.
• Well-maintained wooden windows can give you 20 years or more.
• Aluminum will last at least 30 years.
• Fiberglass can last 40 years.

Your frame materials are only a guide. High-quality windows will live longer, particularly if you’ve performed fastidious annual maintenance.

Your windows have visible damage

Mechanical window damage is often repairable, but if it occurs in older frames, you might notice that the gap between repairs is growing smaller with every passing month. This is often a sign that it’s time to invest in a sparkling new set of windows. Look out for:

• Windows that are difficult to close and open, particularly if they make a rattling, grinding, or clicking sound.
• Misalignments: If your window doesn’t open smoothly, you might have worn components or a poor fit.
• The middle of your sealed windows looks distorted: This is a sign of a failed seal with leaking gas.
• Poor soundproofing: If noise is penetrating your windows, it means your insulation has declined or you’ve developed severe mechanical damage.
• Cracks: This is an early sign of an impending seal failure. In time, moisture will infiltrate, causing damage to your frame.

Your required repair costs 50% of its replacement price

The 50% rule states that if the price of repairing your windows is over 50% of the replacement cost, it’s best to replace them. This rule of thumb is a handy guide, but it’s not a law unto itself. If your windows are brand new, an expensive repair is usually the wisest option. It’s also important to consider whether the required repair will harm the performance of your windows. If your frames’ energy efficiency won’t recover from a repair, you can consider them obsolete.

A replacement will be cheaper than the utility bills generated by failing windows

Failed or outdated window seals can make your home expensive to run. Your HVAC system will have to work twice as hard to keep your home comfortable, so sometimes a replacement pays for itself in reduced energy bills. Consider your seals failed if:

• You see moisture or fog between your glass panes.
• Your interior glass is damp in the mornings.
• You see cracks or sealant failures.
• Your frame has developed water stains or mold.
• Your HVAC costs are skyrocketing for no apparent reason.
• You spot wayward insects between your panes.

New triple-pane windows can reduce your annual electricity bills by 3% while improving your energy efficiency by 30%. They’re only about 10% of the price of double-pane alternatives and could save you hundreds of dollars annually. Sometimes, the returns make the investment worthwhile.

You’re selling your property

Window replacements can add sparkle to your curb appeal while adding to your resale value. Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report found that new windows offer a return on investment of about 65%. Triple pane vinyl or wood windows seem to offer the highest ROI in the industry. The more energy efficient they are, the more you’ll recoup.

New windows are a significant, but worthwhile, investment with impressive returns. They offer both aesthetic and practical benefits—two reasons why they’re one of the highest ROI additions in the industry. They’ll keep your home cozy and beautiful while keeping noise pollution at bay. Of course, their energy savings are a boon. Spend them on a vacation. You deserve it.

Need help with a window project? Schedule a free estimate with 1-800-HANSONS.