4 Signs It Might Be Time to Replace Your Windows

When was the last time you changed your windows? Depending on the type of windows, the installation quality, and the upkeep and maintenance, windows can last between 15 and 20 years.

But even if yours last that long, it’s only a matter of time before you’ll need replacement windows. According to one source, it can cost an average of $11,500 to replace the windows in a 10-window house. Of course, that’s just the average. Depending on the type of windows, frames, and features you choose, the cost for such a project can be higher.

If you’re doing a home renovation and don’t like the old windows, replacement windows can complete the overall look. But that’s just about aesthetics. What you need to know is when replacement windows are required. What follows are four signs you need new windows.

1. Change Them When They’re Too Old

If your windows are near or past the end of their lifecycle, it might be time to replace them. Older windows, especially single-pane windows, won’t offer the same energy efficiency benefits as newer double- or even triple-pane windows with inert gas fills for better insulation. In fact, having any single-pane windows is a reason to replace them immediately.

Having old windows in place longer than ideal means paying more for heating and cooling, having drafts that make the interior temperature uneven and uncomfortable, and even dealing with more outside noise getting inside your home.

2. Change Them When Opening and Closing Them Takes Herculean Strength

Another sure sign you should replace your windows is if opening and closing them takes almost super-human strength. It’ll be even worse if you can’t fully close and lock it. Being unable to operate your windows is a security concern you should handle immediately. You’ll jeopardize your family’s safety if you don’t take corrective action.

If this scenario rings true, visit a reputable replacement windows provider. You’ll want to book an in-home consultation so that a professional can take proper measurements and an in-store consultation so you can work with one of the staff to select replacement windows.

3. Change Them When Too Much Noise Pollution Gets Inside

Many people don’t grasp how important their windows are to keeping outside noise from getting inside. If you live in a busy area with lots of homes, people, and vehicles, it might be noisy at certain times of the day. Should this be the case for you, and if your windows are old, it might be worth getting replacement windows with a good sound transmission class (STC) rating.

The higher the number, the better the acoustic insulation you’ll get. You can consult with a replacement window shop to find an STC rating that’s the right fit for your home.

4. Change Them When They’re the Worst for Wear

Are your windows damaged? That’s a telltale sign they should be fixed or replaced. Damage to the glass or the frame will worsen, rather than better, with time. So, don’t ignore the damage. Do something about it. You also need to be on the lookout for issues like warping, which can make it hard to close or open the windows. When consulting a replacement window shop, ask whether the damage can be repaired or if window replacement is the only viable option.

If any of these four scenarios describes your situation, consider replacement windows. Find a replacement window retailer near you with a wide selection of windows. You’ll see that different things factor into finding the best options for your home.

Whether you replace all the windows at once or do them in bunches is up to you. You can work with a replacement store to decide how to go forward.