Every home requires general upkeep and maintenance, but over time it becomes more difficult to maintain certain areas of your home. Your windows and doors fall into this category. General maintenance such as cleaning, removing debris, lubricating moving parts, and tightening any potential loose components work for a long period of time, but all windows and doors will begin to perform at a lower level leading to a wide range of potential issues. Inspecting your windows and doors annually will help you notice any signs it’s time for a window replacement.
Here you will find what to pay attention to when inspecting your windows:
1. External Noise
While your windows allow air and natural light to penetrate into your home, they shouldn’t allow excessive external noise in. A damaged window seal, however will allow noise from the street into your home. Ultimately, this can affect the standard of living of you and your family by causing distractions and reduced privacy. If you find yourself in this situation, consider replacing your windows, just keep in mind the more panes your window has the more you’re protected from external noise pollution.
2. Increased Energy Bills
Reviewing your energy bills for the past 8-12 months may not have been on your window inspection list. But this is a key step in evaluating your windows performance. Compromised windows force your heating and cooling systems to work harder to maintain the internal temperature of your home. This in turn increases your energy consumption and the amount you pay on your energy bills. Any easy way to see if your windows are allowing a draft, is by standing about two feet back from the window holding a lit candle. If you see the flame moving around, this is a sure indication that air is passing from your windows.
3. Tough to Open and Close
If your windows are tough to open and or close it’s a good sign that there is an issue. Rust, rot or any movement and twists in your frame will make it more difficult to open and close your windows. This is because there is added friction against the sash or damage to hinges and cranks. Easy and smooth operation is as easy as calling in a professional to replace these damaged windows.
4. Eye Soar
The design and style of your home may change over time. Renovations, upgrades and additions may have your home looking a feeling different than it did when your windows were last installed. If you stand back, and your windows are detracting from your home’s appeal, it is time to consider a replacement. Even if they are still functioning properly.
5. Old Single Pane Windows
If your home is older than 20 years, you may have single-pane windows. If this is the case, it is time to upgrade as soon as possible. Single pane windows do not offer the energy efficiency, safety and security, or the aesthetic appeal of today’s windows. In fact, replacing your single paned windows will end up saving you money in the long run, as you will notice a drastic reduction in your energy bills due to the energy efficiency technology incorporated in new windows.