A guide on how to tell if you need new windows

Your windows are rotting

Windows usually last around 15 to 20 years but over time they do begin to get worn down no matter how good quality your windows may be. As soon as you see signs of rot on your windows you must replace them. This happens especially with wooden window frames and is particularly difficult to deal with as rot and decay is hard to manage in wood. People tend to think the window looks fine from the outside and still does its job but leaving an issue like this will only make it spread and turn into an even bigger problem later on, causing the window to break completely. Obviously the poorer quality windows will become worn out quicker than higher quality windows. This difference is visible as poorer quality windows tend to discolor and you may notice cracks and leaks caused by the worn down double glazing.

Your energy bills are higher than usual

If you begin to notice you’re paying more for your energy bills then you should probably check out your windows. When your windows begin to get old and worn down this tends to affect the insulation of your home as more heat is able to escape through the windows, meaning it is wasted and costs you more money. To check your windows you should stand next to them and feel if the temperature is cooler compared to the rest of the house, if this is the case your windows need replacing. You can also look for cracks or touch the glass and if it is cold you are wasting a lot of energy. This often occurs in older windows which are single panned so it is beneficial to invest in a double glazed window in order to help reduce heat loss and also save you money.

Your windows are hard to open and close

Windows are especially important for an escape route so it is a definite reason to replace your windows if they are not working correctly. Some reasons for a faulty window is that it may have been painted shut, making the job easier for the painter but a hassle later on. The window can also become hard to open due to the window frames expanding in heat during the summer, making them difficult to close for the winter. As the ground moves our houses do to and so sometimes our window frames do not fit properly like they used to and so should be replaced.

Your windows are leaking

Over time windows collect moisture from rain and get a build up of condensation. These issues may seem little and can be avoided by wiping the condensation away but this can lead to a bigger issue growing like mold if it is not properly sorted. This mold grows inside the frame and over time causes the window to break down, leaving you with the only option of replacing the window completely. Also if moisture gets trapped inside the glass it tends to obstruct your view, this is caused by faulty window fitting, causing leaks on the inside of the window. Rather than conducting repairs on your window it would be more financially beneficial to invest in a new window to save money in the long term.

Your windows let in drafts

The best way to find out if your windows are letting in drafts is to check your energy bills, if they have gone up randomly your windows are letting in a draft. A draft is created when a window is not shut properly or there are cracks letting cold air through but also wasting a lot of money on energy bills as warm air is being let out and wasted. If this is the case you should definitely invest in a new window being installed not only to save money but also to create more security for your home.

There is a lot of sound in your house

Another key sign that you need new windows is if your home is no longer soundproof and you can hear all the noise of the outside world. Windows are designed to reduce sound so your home is private and your quiet place to relax if this is not the case your windows are probably quite old and should be replaced. You should not be able to hear noise when your windows are shut as this can cause a lot of disruption and annoyance in your home and is not the peaceful environment it should be.

Your windows are single pane

Have you ever wondered why your room is so cold in the winter and burning hot in the summer, then maybe you should take a look at your windows. Single pane windows are usually the cause of this and are usually found in older houses which can make it uncomfortable to live in as temperature changes quite abruptly. It is always more beneficial to invest in double glazed windows as they are much stronger and effective than single panes and also much safer as they provide a stronger sense of security to your home.

What are the benefits of new windows?

It is a very wise investment to install new windows as although they may be expensive in the short term they save you a lot of money in the long run, reducing the likelihood that you will need to pay for repairs if you purchase a good quality window. It can also save money in other ways, like reducing energy bills as replacing an old window can reduce heat loss. New windows can also make your house look more modern and add value to your home but also character by helping remove its old age look. If you are thinking of replacing your windows 3 Window Estimates can help you to find the perfect price for you, giving you quotes on the best windows they have to offer.