When To Replace Your Windows

Replacing windows is the first thing most homeowners think of when they consider home energy upgrades; in fact, “Should I replace my windows” is probably the most common question people ask about home energy savings.

But, despite what the salesman told you, unless you are buying the “right” window, it is relatively rare for a window replacement to financially make sense as an initial energy-saving upgrade. In fact…

According to a report published on the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s website: “Many replacement windows, typically made from vinyl or aluminum, especially the lower cost ones, have an average life span of less than 20 years. This is much shorter than their payback period, which is anywhere from 40 to 250 years.”

That’s why it is so important to make sure you are buying the “right” window.

However, there are a few, very good reasons where replacing your windows just makes sense and is a financially responsible thing to do:

Consumers whose homes have windows that are over 10 years old should strongly consider upgrading or replacing their windows and doors.

In fact, According to The E.P.A, Windows That Are Just 8 Years or Older, Are Not as Energy Efficient as Today’s Modern Windows & ENERGY STAR labeled windows and doors are twice as efficient as the average windows manufactured just 10 years ago.

Also, homes with windows that were made prior to 1978 should seriously consider replacement considering that lead-based paints and primers were still being widely used.

Prime candidates for replacement are windows that are sealed shut, painted shut, non-functioning, or no longer energy efficient. Drafty windows, deteriorated doors, or broken products should always be evaluated, and if needed, replaced.

Other clear indicators for an immediate repair, upgrade, or replacement, is if there is mold or moisture between the window frame and the wall.

The fact of the matter is that if your windows are in bad shape, then you should, by all means, replace them.  The reality is that damaged or malfunctioning windows could actually be more detrimental to your home by not replacing them.

Old or damaged windows can be draughty, letting in unwanted air requiring more energy to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, thus increasing your heating and cooling bills. Remember, for every one cubic foot of air, which you paid to condition, that leaves your home due to leaks and draughts, one cubic foot of untreated air from the outsight must enter. Worse is that leaky or improperly sealed windows can allow moisture in, rotting your window frames. More importantly though is that faulty windows could be potentially letting water in to the actual structure of your home where it can do serious damage over time. See our pages:

1. Improperly Installed Windows Can Cause Severe Water Damage To Your Home.
2. Improperly Installed Windows Can Cause Severe Health Problems.
3. Improperly Installed Windows Can Cost a Fortune in Lost Energy Savings.

Questions? Need More Information?

Our home improvement experts are ready to help you reduce energy costs and make your home more beautiful and comfortable. Contact us for a free estimate today by completing our online quote request form.