Is it Time to Replace Your Home’s Windows?

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.