How to Know if it’s Time to Replace Your Windows & What Are the Signs of Window Deterioration?

There are few things in our home as important as our windows. They let in all of that great natural light that Colorado has to offer, and they protect us from the elements of our state’s ever-changing climate. Along with all of that, they also play a key role in the comfort and aesthetic appeal of your home. Keeping up with window maintenance is one thing, but sooner or later, it’s going to be time to replace them. Waiting to replace them can be much more expensive in the long run, so it’s important to recognize these signs of deterioration promptly. 

There are a few things you can look for to identify when it might be time to replace your windows. Finding these signs won’t only save you money on your energy bills, but it can also make your home more comfortable and increase the overall value of your home. Replacing windows in Fort Collins doesn’t have to break the bank, but budget should be only one of the factors that you’re considering. Some key indicators can clue you in on window deterioration, and the performance of your windows can also give signs it’s time for replacement. 

Overall Lifespan of Windows

Windows don’t last forever, but they can last longer by taking proper care and keeping up with maintenance. On average, most windows will last between 15 and 30 years, so it’s not something that you have to worry about very often. However, depending on the materials, quality of those materials, the climate your living in and other factors, you should still be on the lookout for some of the warning signs that will be listed below. Knowing the age of your windows can help anticipate potential issues earlier, and help you plan for replacements. This can be especially important if you’re working on a tight budget. 

Different materials have different lifespans. For example, wood windows typically last around 15 to 20 years – but may last longer with proper maintenance like painting and staining. Aluminum windows have a lifespan of 20 to 25 years, while vinyl windows will last between 20 and 40 years. One of the most durable materials for window frames is fiberglass, which can last between 30 to 50 years if taken care of. Of course, different materials have different price points. Choosing the right material for your windows comes down to budget, functionality, and how much you’re willing to deal with additional maintenance. 

Check for Drafts & Any Changes in Your Windows

One of the most recognizable signs that your windows may need replacing is the presence of drafts. If you can feel the air moving when you’re standing near a close window, that’s a big indicator of poor insulation. Windows with drafts cause a lot of issues. They can cause significant increases to your energy bills as your heating and cooling system has to work harder to keep that area of your home at a consistent temperature. Even minor drafts can have a big impact. Along with feeling the air coming through the window, you can also look for light seeping through the corners around the window frame. This can also show that the insulation and seal is compromised. 

Drafts aren’t the only changes to be on the lookout for. If it is difficult to open and close the windows, it could mean damage to the window frame. This could be that the frame has become warped over time, the sash has been knocked out of balance, or the window has accumulated dirt and debris in the tracks that cause it to open and close. All of those causes may mean the window frame might be compromised and might need to be replaced. Don’t forget to check out the glass. If you have double- or triple-paned windows, they are specifically designed to provide better insulation. Any condensation between the panes of glass means that seal between the panes has been compromised, and likely needs repair or replacement. 

Watch Out for Physical Damage

Foggy windows or the presence of water droplets between the panes aren’t the only physical issues to keep your eye on. Physical damage to the window frame – or the glass – is an obvious sign that windows need to be replaced. Cracked, chipped, or broken glass not only compromises the window’s ability to insulate, but it also poses a safety risk for your home. If you have wooden frames, they should be inspected fairly regularly. In the event of broken glass, you may not have to replace the entire window frames – if they’re still in good condition. However, it’s important to note that with double- or triple-paned windows, you may need to replace everything to get the proper insulation back. Be sure to talk to your window replacement expert to find out. 

Wood is susceptible to rot and decay, which can cause the frame to change shape or lose that tight seal. If the wood is soft or spongy, that could indicate rot is present. To identify this, look for discoloration or peeling paint. For all types of frame, checking the seals and caulking around the windows can also show signs of wear and tear. You can reapply sealant or caulking as necessary, and that will also save you money in the long run while keeping up the integrity of your windows. 

Other Ways to Notice Change in Performance

Just because there isn’t any visible physical damage doesn’t mean everything is wonderful with your windows. Your windows insulate your home from more than just temperatures. If you start to notice more outside noise coming in, it could mean that your windows are losing their effectiveness. Pay attention to how much street noise are coming into the particular room, and compare those noise levels to other rooms – or even similar homes in your neighborhood, if possible. That can give some insight into whether or not those insulating properties are deteriorating. 

Keep an eye on your energy bill. Windows play a massive role in your home’s overall energy efficiency. If your bills have been increasing without a bump in energy prices or a change in your energy usage, your windows could be to blame. Along with checking your windows for drafts and keeping an eye on the caulking or sealant, you may also consider an energy audit to narrow down where those sources of energy loss are in your home. Another indication could also come from your carpets and furniture. A lot of windows have UV protection, so significant fading on carpets, curtains, and furniture could be another indication that the UV protection is no longer effective. 

How to Maintain Your Windows

Budget is a big factor for most families, and replacing your windows can be a big, expensive job. Taking some steps of preventative maintenance can really help extend the lifespan of those windows by making sure they keep performing properly. Be sure to clean the glass and frames regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt or other debris. This can keep the window opening and closing properly, and will give you the chance to look for any flaws that could be impacting performance. Along these lines, you should check the seals and caulking around the windows to make sure there are no gaps. 

Windows also often have other hardware installed with them – whether its locks or other mechanisms to help open and close them. Inspect and tighten any loose screws or other hardware. This will help maintain the integrity of the windows and make sure you’re not losing any of that tight seal that’s vital to insulating your home. For sliding windows, be sure to lubricate the tracks of the windows to ensure a smooth operation. 

Choosing the Right Replacement Windows

If you need to replace your windows, be sure to understand the differences between the materials that are available. Vinyl is a popular, affordable option that requires very low maintenance. Wood requires regular maintenance, but is a classic option that still offers good insulation. Aluminum and fiberglass are highly durable, but might be a little more on the expensive end. Modern windows also come with energy efficiency ratings, and checking out glazing options can also enhance your home’s overall energy efficiency and comfort. Glazing options often come down to double- or triple-paned glass. These are built by using multiple panes of glass with a layer of insulating gas between them. They deliver optimal energy efficiency, but are more expensive. 

When it’s time to replace your windows, be sure to reach out to the experts in the industry to make sure you’re getting the right product for your situation. Since we typically only replace windows every few decades, there might be changes or other innovations you may not be aware of. For more information on getting the right window – or if it’s time to replace them – reach out to the experts at Window & Siding Outlet today.