3 Warning Signs that Your Windows Need Replacing
In some cases, it’s fairly obvious that your windows need replacing, especially when some kind of damage has been done to them, and cracks or breaks are visible. But most of the time, there aren’t any such obvious indications and you’ll have to look a little harder to determine whether or not it’s time for the windows to be replaced. It’s fairly important to know this, because when your windows start to become less effective, it will usually have a direct impact on your household energy efficiency, and by extension, the amount of money you’re obliged to pay the utility company every month. Here are some of the best ways to determine when windows are in need of replacement.
Cracks in the frames
If your windows are equipped with wooden frames, you might very well begin to notice some cracks which appear in the frames. Cracks are often caused by regular warping as a result of changing temperatures between the seasons, and once they become part of the window frame, they can quickly lead to other issues. For instance, moisture might creep into those cracks and cause rotting or mold to form, and this can jeopardize the entire window structure. When you notice any cracks in the frames around your windows, you’ll either need to handle those cracks somehow, or replace the entire window.
Draftiness in the home
When you begin to notice draftiness in the home, that’s probably a sign that your windows are not as weather-tight as they should be. For instance, in winter time when you have your furnace running, you should not feel cold air circulating around the home. You can usually tell if this is the case by standing directly next to a window you suspect is leaking – that’s where you should feel the most obvious indication of cold air or warm air coming inside. In addition to causing a comfort issue for you and your family members, you’ll probably notice an increase in your energy costs as well.
Higher energy bills
With exterior air penetrating inside your home, it will almost certainly cause your heating and cooling systems to work harder in order to compensate for the unwanted outside air. This will naturally cause a corresponding rise in your energy bills, and an overall increase in your monthly budget. This may begin to show up as gradually increasing utility bills each month, until you notice a pattern of higher bills over a period of several months. That becomes time to seriously consider buying some replacement windows, and while you’re at it, looking for the most energy-efficient windows available.
There are all kinds of enhancements you can get for your new windows so as to achieve maximum efficiency, for instance buying Low-E glass, buying double-pane or triple-pane windows, and seeking out the Energy Star on the label, so you can be sure of having the most energy-efficient design. It might cost a little more and be a little more of a hassle, but when you have new energy-efficient windows installed, you’ll notice a definite difference in comfort, and in your utility bills.
