Signs Your Windows Need Replacing
If you’re thinking about selling your home, a great way to boost your asking price is with replacing windows. Energy-efficient and modern looking replacement windows can improve your home’s curb appeal while also making it more comfortable.
Old windows can become drafty and foggy over time, especially during cold weather. This can lead to high energy bills, so if you feel this happening around one or more of your windows, it’s a good idea to replace them as soon as possible.
Cracked Panes
Cracked window panes are an obvious sign that your windows need replacing. These breaks can be caused by a number of things, including drastic changes in pressure or temperature, objects hitting the glass, or hyperactive pets.
A small crack in your glass isn’t always a big deal, but it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent a larger problem from developing. However, a large crack in double-paned glass with holes through both panes is a major indicator that your windows need to be replaced.
Leaks
When the seals on your window start peeling, water can easily seep in at multiple spots, damaging the framing and causing mould and mildew to grow.
Condensation between the panes of glass can also indicate that the windows’ seals have broken down.
These symptoms could point to a damaged or missing seal, but they can also mean that the windows aren’t as energy efficient as they once were, says Roberson. So, if you notice a significant increase in your energy bill, it’s time to replace your windows.
Draft Windows
Drafts, that pocket of cold air that forms in front of a window, can be a sign that your windows are old and need replacing. Not only does a drafty window make you uncomfortable, but it can also contribute to high energy bills by forcing your heating system to work harder than it should.
Luckily, there are plenty of affordable and easy fixes to prevent drafts from entering your home. These include re-caulking and using insulating bubble wrap to seal the window.
Poor Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is a critical component of your home’s overall value. A property with a great exterior will sell faster and for more money than one with less attractive features.
Real estate agents often suggest improvements to sellers to help them boost curb appeal before a sale. For example, they may recommend painting the house in a colour popular among buyers in the neighbourhood, installing lights that match nearby homes, or putting in a sign.
Noisy
Window noise is a tell-tale sign that your windows need to be replaced. It’s often caused by gaps that allow air to enter the window.
The type of material that surrounds your windows also plays a role in how much sound gets through, whether it’s wood, glass or metal. The amount of caulking or foam insulation that a contractor places around your windows affects how well they block sound, as does the type of windows you choose.