Spending on home improvement has gone up in 2020 by an average of $745 compared to 2019.
The coronavirus pandemic has forced many people to stay home. Instead of spending money on travel, commuting, and other expenses, a lot of Americans are instead spending on home renovations and on updating their space.
When it comes to home renovations, common projects include updating the flooring or the paint. However, have you considered the state of your windows?
When’s the last time you inspected the windows in your home? Are they in need of replacement?
Want to learn more? Keep reading to learn about ten signs it’s time for new window installation.
1. The Windows Are Damaged
One sign that you need new window installation is if your current windows have physical signs of damage. Take a look at all the windows in your home and check for cracks in the glass or other signs of damage.
You should also look at the window frames and around the window and look for signs of warping, chips, cracks, and issues of wear and tear. This is especially common for frames made out of wood.
2. They Are Drafty
Think back to the last rainstorm or snowstorm that happened. Did you feel a strong, cold draft when you were by your windows? Drafty windows can also be a sign that you need to update your windows.
It’s possible that you may just need to update your windows by replacing the window seal. However, if your windows are older, and you already tried replacing the seal, then you might need new windows.
3. The Windows are Older
Are your windows older and outdated? Did you know that you can get nearly an 80% return on investment for new windows if you’re planning to sell your home?
If you’re considering renovations for the exterior of your home, you might want to consider new windows. New windows can transform the look of your home and add to curb appeal.
4. Your Energy Bills Keep Going up
Do you notice your energy bills rising? Are you looking for ways to make your home more energy efficient? Your windows could be a factor.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, windows account for 25%-30% of heat gain and heat loss in home heating and cooling energy usage.
If your windows are outdated or in bad shape, this could raise your energy bills throughout the year. You may be paying more for all the energy lost from drafty windows.
If you have older, drafty windows, your heater is going to work harder in the winter to keep your home warm with all the cold air coming in through the windows. This results in a higher energy bill and a waste of energy.
5. It’s Difficult to Open or Close Them
When you open or close your windows to let in a breeze, do you find yourself pulling and pushing? It shouldn’t be a struggle to open or close your windows. This could mean that your frame has warped and that it’s time for window replacements.
Or, do you find it difficult to lock your windows? This can be a security issue if you’re not able to properly lock your windows.
6. They Don’t Keep Out Exterior Noise
Maybe you want some peace and quiet during your midday nap. Maybe you just need a quiet environment while you work. You go to close the windows, but you can still hear everything that is happening on your street.
If your windows don’t help keep out exterior noise, then this may be another sign that you need window replacements. New windows can offer better protection from outside noise.
7. They Look Outdated
Is everything in your home updated and new, except your windows? Outdated windows will stick out, and not in a good way, in an updated, modern home.
Or maybe your windows are difficult to clean. The state of your windows can make or break how the rest of your home looks.
You can update the look of your home with beautiful new windows such as ones from Renewal by Andersen Window Replacement.
8. Condensation
Do you see condensation build-up between your window panes? This could be a sign of a broken insulation seal. The moisture is from the cold air coming in through the glass.
This is another sign that you might need new windows.
9. Water Damage or Leaks
Another sign you need window upgrades is if you notice water damage on your window frames. If your window frames have water damage, they can start to rot or become warped. Eventually, they can start to leak when it rains or during a storm.
You don’t want to wait until the state of your windows gets that bad. If you suspect you have water damage, it may be time to look into window replacements.
10. You Have Single Pane Windows
If you have an older home, you might have single-pane windows. Maybe you recently bought the home, and you decided to leave the window upgrades for later.
However, single-pane windows offer little insulation to protect your home from the heat in the summer and the cold in the winter, which can make your energy bills high.
What’s more, single-pane windows don’t block out much outside noise. If you have single-pane windows, you might want to consider upgrading to double or triple-pane windows.
Final Thoughts on New Window Installation
Have you been thinking about new window installation for your home? If you’ve been having issues with drafts, rising energy bills, and outdated or damaged windows, then you might want to consider new windows.
Want to learn more home improvement advice and tips? Check out more articles in our blog.
