It could be time to upgrade or replace your windows depending on your home’s age, the current windows’ draft insulation, and your energy efficiency preferences. Similarly, window replacement might be a good idea if the windows swell during temperature changes, you have noise concerns, or you want to enhance your home’s curb appeal.
Age of Home
Windows can remain functional and efficient for 15 to 30 years. If you do not know when the windows were last replaced, go by the age of the home. If the home is older than 15 years, check the functionality of the windows. Are they easy to open and close? Are they drafty? Is moisture common on the interior of the windows?
Draft/Insulation Concerns
Drafty windows result from window seal issues, improper installation, cracked caulking, or old, ineffective windows. Older windows may feature just one pane, for example. For energy-efficient windows, get replacements that have double or triple panes. These designs help keep the air inside your house. If you have a concern, schedule one of our Design Consultants to your home to see what your options are to repair or replace your windows.
Energy Efficiency
The Department of Energy notes that
25 to 30 percent of residential heating and cooling are related to heat gain and loss through windows. If your utility bills are getting higher or spiking, look into new windows. With window replacement, get products with the Energy Star and NFRC labels. The climate in Indiana can get cold, so consider windows with low e-coatings that minimize heat loss. Another concern might be the comfort level of your home, which includes hot or cold areas in certain rooms of your home or when it feels cold on the floor. This could result from windows that do not allow HVAC to keep each room the same temperature. Additionally, oftentimes a thermostat is in the middle of the home, although the outer rooms are not a part of this regulated temperature of the home. The HVAC does not know when to turn on and off. As a result, the windows in those outer areas allow the transfer of energy so those rooms are at different temperatures than the main rooms of the home.
Swelling During Temperature Changes
Wood windows swell when humidity is high or when the wood is damp. In these situations, the wood windows can be hard to open and close. During lower temperatures and lower levels of humidity, windows tend to be easier to operate. Sanding your window sills can help with the issue year-round. However, swelling and moisture/condensation are signs your windows may need replacing. That is especially true because moisture promotes the development of rotting wood, mold, or mildew. Any sign of one of these things means you should get your windows replaced sooner rather than later.
Noise Concerns
Replacement windows can greatly cut down on outside noise filtering inside and make your home a peaceful sanctuary. Be sure to tell your window replacement specialist about your noise concerns so they can help you choose the right new windows for soundproofing. Not all windows are created with equal soundproofing capabilities.
Curb Appeal/ROI
Some people replace their windows for curb appeal or return on investment. For example, curb appeal helps sell homes. The
return on investment (ROI) of replacement windows is high compared with other projects, too. The main benefits of window replacement include energy efficiency, better draft insulation, noise blockage, and curb appeal.
Get in touch with Hometown Window and Door today for free window inspections and replacement estimates on all Andersen Windows & Door products. We are your Hometown Window experts.