When you think about the features on your home that require s replacement from time to time, you may understandably think about features like the roof, the HVAC system and the water heater. At first glance, the windows on a home seemingly would never need replacement unless the glass breaks. However, this is not the case. After a few decades or less, a replacement may be beneficial. These are a few of the signs that the time has come to schedule replacement service with a skilled contractor.
1. Trouble Opening and Closing the Window
As your home settles, the perfectly shaped frame that your window sits in can shift. In some cases, the home’s foundation is not the issue. The frames simply become off-balance as they age. Other issues, such as rotting frames, can also cause opening and closing challenges. If you struggle to open and close a window, it may be time to replace the damaged window and frame.
2. Condensation or Mold Growth Between the Panes
Double-paned windows have two panes of glass with a pocket of sealed gas between them. This creates insulation that promotes energy efficiency and temperature control in the home. When the seals between the glass panes break, you may notice condensation between the panes of glass. In some cases, this can cause a hazy look, but it could also cause mold growth. When this happens, the primary solution is to schedule a full new window replacement.
3. Your Home Is Noisy
Another sign that your home’s windows are not doing their full job of keeping outdoor air from entering the home is a noisy environment. When noises are able to seemingly effortlessly pass into the home, you can feel confident that air can pass in and out as well. In addition, issues with pest control can become a concern. Pay attention to noises in different rooms to pinpoint a possible problem that needs to be addressed.
4. You Feel Frequent Draughts
Draughts of air from poorly sealed windows can make you feel uncomfortable in the home on very cold or very warm days. They can also make the home feel more humid than it should feel. This is more than a comfort issue. Draughts are a sign that your HVAC system may be working harder that it should to do its job. This wastes energy, and it also can have a detrimental impact on your HVAC system.
Replacing even a single window can be expensive, but it can also have tremendous positive impacts on your home’s condition, your comfort, your energy costs and more. If you have noticed any of these signs, a consultation with a window expert is a smart idea.
