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Replacement Windows

10 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windows

6 min read

Your home’s windows play a big part in your home’s energy performance and comfort levels year-round. If your windows are damaged or just outdated, there is a high chance that they won’t be able to function properly. And when that happens, it is likely time for you to replace them or at the very least have them checked out by a professional.

Your windows don’t suddenly become less energy-efficient, it happens slowly over months or years. So how do you know when they’re not as energy-efficient and need to be replaced? 

We have ten things to look out for if you suspect your windows are past their prime. If one or more of these sound familiar, it’s probably time to look into replacement windows.

How Long Do Windows Last?

When to Replace Your Windows

Home windows have a lifespan of 15-20 years. Once they reach this age, the seals start to weaken or fail, which leaves you open to drafts and water seepage.

In addition, single-pane windows were the standard 15+ years ago. These windows lack insulation and are not as energy efficient as modern double-pane windows. 

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Watch the video below for signs that your windows need to be replaced and keep reading for more info:

When Should You Replace Your Windows?

1. Your Windows Are Visibly Damaged

This is probably the most obvious sign you need to replace your windows since cracks are never a good sign when it comes to homes. When a window is damaged or cracked, it’s more likely to break completely, which leaves your home open to more serious damage like water seepage, mold and pests. It may also make your home easier for intruders to break into if the damage is noticeably there. Getting a damaged window fixed as soon as possible will keep your family safe and help you avoid more expensive repairs in the future.

broken window pane

2. Your Windows Are Drafty

Drafts are a problem for a few reasons beyond a minor inconvenience. First, it means that the air you’re paying to cool is seeping out and the hot, humid air outside is making its way in. A room with drafty windows will feel less comfortable than the rest of your home, and may even feel more humid.

Second, because outside air is coming in, your HVAC system has to work harder to keep your home at the temperature you set. 

To check for drafts, close your window, lock it and hold your hand at the bottom or top of your window sash where it meets the frame. If you feel air coming in, you have a draft and should probably begin testing other windows in your home as well.

3. Your Electric Bills Are Higher With No Other Explanation

A lot of things can cause your electric bills to skyrocket, but if you’ve noticed that your electric bills have slowly crept up your windows might be to blame. Like we mentioned, drafts let the temperature-controlled air inside your house escape, which forces your HVAC system to work harder to try to keep your home at the temperature you’ve set. This drives your electric bills up and the increased workload can shorten the life of your HVAC unit. Replacing old windows with new, energy-efficient ones helps lower your monthly bills and makes sure your air conditioner doesn’t need to work harder than necessary.

4. Condensation Forms On The Inside of Your Windows

Condensation on the inside of your window usually means your windows are leaking air and/or your home is humid. (Note: Condensation on the outside of your windows is not cause for concern. It just means that it’s warmer and more humid outside than it is inside.)  

If you notice condensation between the panes of your double or triple-pane windows, it’s a sign that the air-tight seal has failed and the insulating gas has escaped. Whether it’s inside or between the panes, spotting condensation anywhere except the outside of your window is a definite sign they should be replaced. If you’re a Window World customer who is experiencing this, your windows may be covered by our lifetime warranty. Just submit a warranty claim and we’ll be in touch!

condensation in window

5. Carpet & Furniture Around Your Windows Are Faded

If the furniture, carpet, rugs or decor that is exposed to the sunlight coming through your windows has faded, your windows probably aren’t don’t have the UV protection offered by modern windows with low-emissivity (low-E) glass. Low-E glass is treated with a microscopic film that keeps UV rays and solar heat from passing through. This prevents your furniture, carpet and curtains from fading, and helps to keep your home cooler. 

6. Your Windows Don’t Dampen Sound

If you live near a busy intersection, venues, train tracks or just have neighbors that like to get loud, you might think there’s nothing you can do about the noise. But there is! Modern double or triple-pane windows provide noticeable sound dampening sound thanks to the additional insulation.

7. Your Windows Have a Harder Time Opening and Closing

Every window can have a hard time opening and closing throughout its lifespan. However, if you have cleaned and attempted to fix this multiple times throughout the years and the windows only get worse, it may be time to look for replacement windows. A stuck window is frustrating and could lead to it remaining stuck in an open position, exposing your home to the elements.

8. Your Allergies are Worse than Usual

Notice you’ve been sniffling or have watery eyes more than usual? Depending on the time of year, allergens may be making their way into your home through ineffectively-sealed windows. Even the best of window seals degrade over time, but if it’s been more than 15 years since your windows were installed, it’s time to replace so you can put those tissues away.

9. You Want to Up Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Curb appeal can be an important part of a home for some. Whether you want to spruce up your home to modernize the look or to flip your home, replacing your windows can help with potentially increasing your curb appeal. Our windows are highly customizable, with plenty of options for colors and grid patterns to make your home unique!

10. You’re Looking to Increase Your Home Value

No matter how much you may love your home, you never know what the future holds. Should you sell your home in the future, you’ll want to get the most value out of your property. With replacement vinyl windows installed, you stand to add an additional $13,766, on average, to your home’s total value per Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs Value report.

Additional Tips to Maintain Your Windows

1. Inspect your windows annually to test them.

2. Check the caulking around the windows for cracks or holes that may be there.

3. Always analyze the wood finishes to see how they are holding up.

4. Take time to clean the tracks of the windows of debris that can make them stuck or hard to close.

Update Your Windows With Window World of Baton Rouge

If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to trade your old windows in for new, energy-efficient ones! At Window World of Baton Rouge, we have a wide variety of window styles to fit every home style and budget. Contact us today to learn more and schedule your free consultation!