ViraScoop
Home improvement projects tend to cost a lot of time, effort, and money. And with everything else that needs improvement around the house, it’s easy for homeowners to put off window replacement until absolutely necessary. But when exactly should you replace residential windows? Look out for these signs:
Drafts of wind even when your windows are closed
The most telling sign is when you start to feel drafts from your windows even when they are closed. If you are unsure if there is a breeze coming from your windows, do a draft test by holding a lit candle of lighter around the edges of the windows while they are closed. Observe the flame closely, and if it wavers, your windows are probably not doing the job they should.
Drafts are often the result of installation issues and hardware problems, such as faulty seals. Drafty windows drastically affect the overall temperature of your home, which causes HVAC systems to work hard to keep up with the fluctuating temperature. For this reason, windows are vital to the energy efficiency of your home.
Lots of outside noises get through
Many think that thin walls are the sole culprit when you hear a lot of outside noises. However, this is part of your windows’ job as well. If your windows barely protect you from the sounds of the outdoors, the seals are likely faulty or the windows were poorly made to begin with.
If noise reduction is a main priority for your window replacement, you should consider getting new double- or triple-pane windows that are insulated with Argon or Krypton gas. This kind of window replacement is especially helpful if your home is in a busy neighborhood or right next to a busy road.
Difficulties when opening, closing and locking windows
Check if all the cranks, handles, and latches of your windows are working smoothly and properly, as you should not strain to open or close your windows. If you find it difficult to operate your windows, it is probably because the windows were not installed correctly. Changing temperature may have also changed the fit of the windows’ operable sashes, or moisture rusted and broke down the moving hardware. Difficulties in locking your windows also compromise the safety of your home, so you should replace your windows when they are hard to operate.
Single-pane windows
Drafts and outside windows are typical issues that come with single pane windows. If your home has single-pane windows, the house is likely to have been built before 1970 and still retains its original windows. You need to replace single-pane with double- or triple-pane windows immediately.
Single-pane windows are not only old, they are also substandard, drafty, sometimes unsafe, since they are less durable. If you are unsure whether you have single-pane windows and what to replace them with, consult with a local window company. Window companies in Salt Lake City, for example, can inspect your windows and recommend the best replacement to suit your home’s needs.
Windows are often overlooked when considering which parts of the home should be replaced. However, they are extremely important. Issues with your windows lead to bigger problems in your home, such as increased energy bills and compromised home safety. Keep looking out for these signs to know when you should replace your windows.
