5 Signs It’s Time to Replace the Windows in Your Home

5 Signs It’s Time to Replace the Windows in Your Home

June 21, 2021
By:
Martin Whitmore, President of US Window & Door
signs you need to replace windows

Your house is your most significant investment and an essential part of your life, which is why, as a homeowner, you need to pay attention to its overall state, including the condition of its windows. Continually using windows that are damaged can cause stress on the frame material and lead to higher expenses in the long run.

You want to make the most of your windows’ life cycle, but at the same time, you don’t want your old windows to affect your quality of life. For this reason, you should learn to recognize the telltale signs of when it is time to replace your windows. The purchase and replacement of brand new windows can be expensive, but it’ll be a cost-effective investment.

Some windows may not have any discernible signs that it’s time to replace them. Also, home improvement projects tend to be expensive and time-consuming which is why it can be easy to delay replacing windows until it is absolutely necessary.

So how do you know if a window needs replacing?

Our window replacement experts have compiled a list of warning signs you need to consider before starting the project. This article narrows down five signs that determine it’s time for homeowners to replace and install new windows.

High Energy Bills

This is clear to most homeowners but some new homeowners may not know: windows can be old and drafty, a clear-cut sign indicating it is time to replace them. Ignoring the warning can lead to drafts in your home and higher energy costs as it becomes more difficult to regulate internal temperatures.

energy efficient windows in bedroom

If it looks as though your energy bill is going up every month, it’s highly likely that your windows are not working as well as they should. Damaged or broken windows lead to high energy bills because the air produced by the HVAC will easily go outdoors. Broken windows can cause electricity bills to rise up by 10 to 25 percent as air conditioners work overtime to balance the indoor temperature, drastically reducing the efficiency of the window. Drafts from improperly sealed or old windows can mean high energy costs for homeowners. Plus, drafts can cause air conditioning problems in homes with high humidity. Energy-star-certified windows are the best fit for any home and can help you save money every month by reducing the cost of heating and cooling costs.

Difficult Window Operation

Windows that require a lot of time and effort to close and open can hamper the security of the house. Over time, and when windows have not been installed correctly, they can develop problems in balancing, which can cause them to get stuck, making it difficult, if not impossible, to open or close the windows. This is a strong sign indicating that you must replace them.

If a window does not close properly, you will also have problems locking it, which can compromise the security of your home. Rusting or rotting windows can also be difficult to use, and if the window is noisy, it might just be telling you to replace it. Trying to repair a damaged or broken sash or frame instead of replacing it might end up costing more than replacing the entire window.

opening a window

So if your window is inoperable, has cracks, broken glass, mold, or rot, you can replace the old window to give your home a complete fix and a full upgrade. Window repairs will not solve all problems, such as inadequate ventilation and poor air circulation. However, if the problem with the window is minor, such as when you need new weather-stripping or fittings, it is usually the best option to repair it.

Decaying Frames and Leaky Windows

Windows exposed to moisture can eventually get weak and cause leaks indoors. Leaving this problem untreated can cause bigger problems in the long run. If the window is more than fifteen years old, it is best to replace the entire window. Visible damage to windows and doors caused by warped, cracked, or rotten frames is a serious problem that should be addressed immediately. Most aging windows develop operation problems and leakage issues that contribute to the formation of rust, rot, and mold.

replacing an old window

Age and extreme weather can hit windows hard, and if the problem is due to wear and tear, you mustn’t ignore it, or you will risk incurring more damages and costly repairs in the long run. For instance, a soft window frame indicates rot or water accumulation.

If your window or door starts to decay, and you notice that the window frame is soft, chipped, or fragmented, or manifesting other signs beyond repair, you will need to start looking at replacement options. The damage not only represents a potential increase in energy costs but is also considered a serious security risk, as potential burglars can view the damage as an easy way into the home. Do not hesitate to have broken or damaged windows and doors replaced as soon as possible.

Lack of Soundproofing

Windows should soundproof a house and not allow noises on the street to be heard indoors.

If you are wondering when the perfect time is to replace your windows, excessive noise can be a sign. Do you hear noise coming from outside your house? If you hear a lot of noise from outside, this is a sign that your windows are not sufficiently insulated and, therefore, may not be suitable for your needs. Our windows are designed to reduce noise transmission and, thus, lead to a quieter, more relaxed living space.

New double or triple glazed windows insulated with argon gas can help reduce the noise from the outside, which is especially helpful if you live in a busy neighborhood with busy streets. Increasing traffic noise, barking dogs, or just people walking on your doorstep are all indications that there is a problem. If you notice that the noise outside your home is stronger than before, this may indicate that your windows and doors have lost their soundproofing qualities.

Condensation

Condensation is a sign of leaking windows.

window condensation

Condensation inside the window is generally not a cause for concern but is often a sign that the windows are inefficient and don't function properly. Condensation accumulating in a window may imply that the gasket has been damaged or is no longer airtight. Condensation on the glass pane can indicate a sealing or gasket defect, and you may be able to solve the problem by replacing the glass pane.

Cracked windows are not only unsightly but can also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. A crack in the window frame is a major problem that needs to be solved. If the crack continues to spread, it can cause serious damage to your property and it may be best to renew the windows. A small crack in the window frame may not be an urgent problem, but it is important to fix it before it spreads. If you spot the crack early enough, you can easily patch it. But if the condition calls for a bigger solution. a new replacement window could replace a cracked frame or even the cracked panes of a window.

Cracked windows can also allow additional air intakes (outlets) into the windows, and this goes into the insulating gas that is used to make windows energy efficient. If the seal fails, moisture can cause problems with insulation and the ability of your window to function properly. If you find that your windows are cracked, this may mean that the gasket has failed. This will eventually allow moisture to enter the glass pane, leaving you with window replacement as the only solution to eliminate condensation in your windows. 

Choosing a Window Replacement Company

Every time you renovate your home, it gets a fresh look and satisfies what you’re looking for in a home. Replacing the windows is no different. It is important to remember that windows are more than just their appearance; they provide comfort, security, and help you save, especially when they are properly installed.

If your windows no longer enhance the appeal of your home, shield it from the weather, or filter out noise, it’s time to replace them with new ones. By replacing windows, you can improve the appearance of the house and boost the value of your investment. You can also save energy while increasing the comfort and safety of your home. 

new replacement windows in kitchen


So, contact our team of window experts for your window replacement and installation needs in San Diego today and to get more information on the best window replacement options in your area. We will work with you according to budget, living environment, and style. We offer a variety of frames like fiberglass windows for superior durability and long-lasting performance. Our windows are also built with top-of-the-line window glass to ensure that your windows remain free of condensation for years to come.