How Often Should You Replace Windows in Your Home?
Home ownership comes with many joys: Having a place to call your own, gaining equity with each mortgage payment, and designing and decorating as you please. It also comes with additional expenses. If the roof leaks, if a water pipe bursts, if the toilet stops working, it’s all on you.
That said, while some necessary fixes are obvious and emergent, knowing when it’s time to replace your windows can be ambiguous. In a best-case scenario, your windows will leak allowing conditioned air to seep out resulting in elevated energy bills. In a worst-case scenario, your hometown endures a destructive storm or hurricane and your windows are damaged.
12 Signs You Should Replace Your Home’s Windows
If you’ve had your home for a while, or if you recently purchased a house, pay attention to the following signs to determine whether you need to install new windows:
- It’s hard to open or close the windows
- You feel a draft when you walk by a window
- Your energy bill has increased
- Furniture or decor placed in direct sunlight is fading
- You can hear most noises happening outside
- Cracks on the panes and/or the frames
- Windows don’t lock properly
- Windows look old or outdated
- Replacement parts have been discontinued
- Windows leak when it rains
- Windows only have one pane
- There’s condensation between panes
How Long Do Home Windows Last?
The lifespan of your home’s windows depends on the materials they’re constructed with. If they are aluminum or wood, they can last up to 30 years. If they’re fiberglass, they can last up to 40 years. Vinyl windows typically last between 20 and 40 years. And double paned windows can last up to 20 years.
Although, there are factors that can reduce the lifespan:
- Poor installation
- Structural settlements of the house
- Pressure washing
- Heavy condensation (this can be ameliorated by installing a humidistat)
- Harsh environmental factors (such as constant sunlight or rain and wind)
- Lack of maintenance
How do you provide maintenance on windows, you ask? We are happy to help.
Wash Windows Regularly: This prevents dirt buildup, which can cause them to jam. Pressure wash infrequently and use low pressure when you do. Clean the tracks with a dry brush. Do this for windows and for sliding glass doors.
Annual Window Inspections: Look for cracks, dents on the frame, or parts of the caulk that are cracked or have broken off. If these issues go unchecked it could cause your home to become drafty, increase your energy bills, and allow water leaks.
Should I Replace All Windows at Once?
If you have the budget to do so, replacing all windows at once may result in a discount. However, doing so is a big investment, so it’s fine to replace them individually over the years. It also depends on why you want to replace them. Is it functionality (e.g. it’s too hard to open the windows, they’re damaged, your home is drafty) or is it aesthetics?
Is it solely for aesthetic reasons; are you trying to sell your home? Replacing windows will significantly improve its curb appeal and raise your home value.
Whether your windows are affecting the quality of life inside your home, failing to protect you from the elements, increasing your energy costs, or you want to improve the look of your home, talk to us to discuss pricing options.
Improve Your Home’s Appearance With Help From Allied Siding & Windows
If you’re a Texas resident and your windows need professional attention, let Allied Siding & Windows help you! We are a proud James Hardie® Elite Preferred Contractor, hence, you’ll know you’re working with one of the best window installers in the industry. Contact us for more information about our services or stop by one of our showrooms in Austin, Dallas, or Houston!
