Do I need new windows? Five Signs Your Home is in Need of an Upgrade
How often do you think about your windows? Probably not very often, unless they’re causing you some sort of problem. However, your windows could be quietly costing you hundreds of dollars a year without you even knowing it. Older windows do not function as well as newer ones, potentially leading to significant energy loss.
Curious if you might need new windows? Here are five signs to watch out for...
High Energy Bills
High energy bills can signify many things, but consider this: heating and cooling account for about 46% of your home’s energy use . Additionally, the heat lost and gained through your home's windows makes up about 25-30% of the energy used to maintain a comfortable temperature .
In other words, a significant portion of your energy bill could be going toward heating or cooling the outdoors—especially if you have older, less energy-efficient windows. In a typical home, windows are the weak link. While very little heat passes through insulated walls, a lot can escape through old single-pane windows.
Replacing old windows with double-pane, energy-efficient replacement windows can save households between $125 and $465 a year on energy bills !
Condensation and Water Damage
Even if you already have double-pane windows, your home may not be as snug as you think. As windows age, failing seals and deteriorating glazing can allow moisture to get between the glass. If you see water droplets and condensation buildup, you can bet that if water is getting through, so is heat.
Condensation can appear between the glass panes or on the interior or exterior of the glass. Typically, you’ll see exterior condensation when it’s warm outside and interior condensation in the winter. Additionally, you may start to notice signs of water damage and decay on your window frames. The constant presence of moisture can cause rotting, water stains, and mold or mildew growth.
Your House Feels Drafty
As windows age, tiny cracks can develop in the glass. The glass doesn’t break outright, but cold air can slide in through these minuscule cracks, causing unpleasant drafts in your home.
You might notice this most when you’re sitting near a window. While your home is generally warm, the cold draft coming from the window can make it uncomfortable to sit near. It's also possible that your windows were improperly installed or the frames have warped over time. Even tiny cracks or crevices caused by these problems can create chilly drafts in your home and drive up your energy bills.
Street Noise
As windows age, tiny cracks can develop in the glass. The glass doesn’t break outright, but cold air can slide in through these minuscule cracks, causing unpleasant drafts in your home.
You might notice this most when you’re sitting near a window. While your home is generally warm, the cold draft coming from the window can make it uncomfortable to sit near. It's also possible that your windows were improperly installed or the frames have warped over time. Even tiny cracks or crevices caused by these problems can create chilly drafts in your home and drive up your energy bills .
Your Window Style Is Outdated
Windows have style too, and most of us can tell the difference between old-fashioned windows and modern ones. There’s a “look” that outdated windows have—maybe it’s the color, the grille pattern, or something else that screams 30 years ago. Regardless, outdated windows can hurt your home’s curb appeal.
Curb appeal is something most homeowners think about only when it’s time to sell their home. However, don’t sell yourself short! You deserve to live in a stylish home and enjoy all the other benefits that new windows can offer .
Ready for Replacement Windows?
The friendly team at Wallaby Windows, a leading window company, is here to help you pick out the perfect replacement windows. Our professional installation team will ensure your investment is correctly installed so you can receive the maximum benefit from your new windows. Schedule your free, in-home consultation today!