Is it Time to Replace Your Home’s Windows?

Mar 03, 2021

Is it Time to Replace Your Home’s Windows?

As we enter the spring season, thoughts turn to warmer temperatures, pleasant breezes, and allowing fresh air into the home. “If it has been a number of years since your home’s windows were replaced, there are telltale signs that indicate if now is the time to consider installing new windows,” said Wendy Cline, J&B Construction owner.

Operation

Is basic window operation becoming a chore? If the windows continually stick, jam, or worse, no longer lock, then window replacement is inevitable. “Beyond being an inconvenience, sticky windows can impede a home’s security, particularly if the locks are compromised. Difficult window operation often signals the windows are no longer balanced as a result of aging,” Wendy said. Other issues that can hinder window operation and often occur when windows reach or exceed their life expectancy include evidence of rot, rust, or mold. Whatever the root cause, window replacement is the only way to achieve seamless window operation in this scenario.

Drafts

Not only are drafty windows bothersome, they’re also expensive. “If your energy bills are inexplicably rising, drafty windows may be to blame,” she said. “To verify this, take your hand and trace the interior frames of all the home’s windows while maintaining about an inch or so distance from the frame. If you feel any air flow, there is in fact a draft.”

Keep in mind, drafts are more easily detectable during the cooler months, so alternatively, you can look for any sunlight peering through the window frame as this also indicates the presence of a draft. Poor installation, window aging, or seal failure can cause drafty windows. In any case, window replacement is necessary in order to effectively eliminate the drafts in a home while taking the added strain off a home’s HVAC system.

Condensation

Another consequence of failing window seals is condensation that frequently forms on the inside panes of glass. “It should be noted that minimal condensation that occasionally forms on the exterior panes of a window or two is normal,” said Wendy. “However, if the condensation forms on the interior panes of a window, is substantial in amount, and is a regular occurrence, then you can conclude the windows are no longer fulfilling one of their primary functions, which is to keep a home nice and toasty in the winter and refreshingly cool in summer.” In other words, the condensation, just like a draft, reveals that the windows are struggling to maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature. Window replacement is likely necessary to correct any and all issues associated with condensation.

Noise

Excess outdoor noise can indicate that windows are no longer properly insulated. Older windows, especially those that are single pane, are nowhere near soundproof. This will be most apparent if the home is located in a bustling subdivision or is situated adjacent to a major street. “If the outdoor noise becomes intolerable, then window replacement is the best course of action,” Wendy said. “Newer windows, especially double and triple pane windows, are designed to minimize sound transfer to help keep a home as peaceful and quiet as possible.”

To begin the process of upgrading your windows, call J&B Construction at 262-437-0537 or complete our online contact form.

Enjoy Peace Of Mind

The only complaint I have is when I have J&B do my roof in another 30 years or so, is Dave their sales man (a great guy) would not guaranty I could get the same great crew I had this time. They did a fantastic job. Much better than the last roofing company did. A nice bunch of guys. Did a very nice job cleaning up. I'd give them 10 stars but 5 is the limit. If you need a roof done this is the company you want to do it. One more point I need to make. The guys that did the chimney flashing are artists. I went up on the roof when they were done and was very pleased with not only the roofing job but the sculptured sheet metal work. It's kind of a shame it's on the roof and not hanging on the family room wall :). You get the point. Hire em. You'll like em.

Dave H

We live in a historic designated neighborhood and recently had our 30 year wood shingle roof replaced with another wood roof and new gutters. From Day 1 of the project to the final day, the entire team was responsive, professional, and very competent. When some minor changes were proposed by us they quickly and effortlessly complied. After going through this experience with J&B, I would highly recommend them to anyone considering a roof and gutter replacement, whether it be a simple or complicated project.

John Lamb

J & B did an amazing job from start to finish. The initial meeting at my home took place exactly at the time that was agreed upon and Scott was thorough in his explanations and transparent about costs. When the time came to begin the project, the team that showed up was friendly, professional and timely in getting the project done. The cleanup afterward was such that it looked like they hadn't been there at all. The roof looks great, there were no surprises and Scott came by to inspect the work and explain the warranty upon job completion. I would highly recommend them.

Kenneth Simons

My neighbor had their roof replaced and I was really impressed with the speed, carefulness and quality of the work I saw. Asked her for her experience and she told me she would highly recommend J & B. I called Scott to set an appointment. He showed up on time and was very thorough in his assessment, also letting me know about some other issues and advise on where to get help. J & B is a fantastic company to deal with - their people are incredibly careful about the work they do, clean up and leave the property in the same condition as when they started, were careful about plants and the house, and work very efficiently. The office staff is great about following up, checking in and very responsive to anything that comes up. I was happy with the price charged. If you are looking to replace your roof, you should be calling J & B to get the job done.

David W.

We had work done by the J&B team at a commercial property and were very pleased with the whole process. Their estimator met us onsite and communicated with us every step of the way. They went over the scope in detail and the work performed exceeded what we were expecting. They found some additional concerns during the installation that were quickly addressed and communicated to us and to our surprise, there was not an additional charge. Our tenants reached out to share how respectful the employees were during the installation and how clean everything was left afterwards. As the project was wrapped up, we were walked through the completion paperwork and provided the warranty information. Very impressed with the professionalism of this company and would not hesitate to refer their services or use them again in the future.

Jessie C.