Is it time to replace your windows? Spring is a popular time for homeowners to come outside and look at their home’s exterior with fresh eyes. One thing that you may overlook are the windows.
Here are a few ways to tell if you need to replace your windows.
High Energy Costs
Cold winters in Maryland can cause energy costs to increase, but so can drafty or old windows. Your furnace or heat pump has to work extra hard to overcome the cold air let in, which shows when you get a higher-than-normal energy bill.
Rather than give more money to the energy company, invest in new windows to see savings in your energy bill.
Drafty Windows
If you happen to feel a draft inside, it usually means the windows are to blame. Cold or windy days are the best at showing the breeze coming in from your closed windows. This might be a sign of faulty seals or poor insulation. It could also mean you need new windows.
Outside Noise Inside
If you swear you hear outside noises too well with your windows shut, it’s probably time for new windows. Older single-pane windows don’t offer much soundproofing or energy efficiency, which could also be the reason behind high energy bills.
Newer windows with double- or triple-pane glass use Argon gas to insulate and decrease outside noises. You’ll also get instant curb appeal and improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Difficult Usage
- If you’re having trouble opening or closing your windows, it could mean a few things:
- The lock isn’t functioning correctly.
- The window isn’t balanced.
- The window is rotting or rusting.
A lock failure could jeopardize the safety of your home, especially if you always have to keep it locked and it’s hard to unlock and open. You may need to replace windows that don’t open easily.
Condensation
Condensation isn’t always a clear sign that you need to replace the windows. When the cold surface of the glass meets the warm air in your home during the winter, condensation can form.
If this happens continuously or you notice frost, you should replace the windows. The same goes for if you see condensation in between the window panes. This means the seal has failed, and you have lost energy efficiency as the gas has leaked out.
Soft or Rotted Frames
If the window frames or sills are decaying and showing softwood signs or rotting, it’s past repair and time for a replacement. Wooden frames and sills are beautiful but require more maintenance than vinyl.
Consider this when deciding on your new windows and the material, especially in Maryland with four seasons and abrupt temperature changes.
Repairing or Replacing Your Windows
Properly functioning windows can improve your home’s carbon footprint and keep your family safe. Energy-efficient windows can also block UV rays from coming into the house, which can keep your belongings from degrading under harsh sunlight.
At 888 Mr. Fixit, we can inspect, repair, or replace your windows. This will help you keep your energy costs low and know your family is protected by working and lockable windows. Call us today for a free estimate and to find out how much you can save by installing energy-efficient windows in your home before the summer heat takes hold.