Are your windows looking a little wonky, and you’re not sure if they need an upgrade? Fret not; today, we’re sharing the red flags and 6 signs to look for to know if your home needs new windows. As we make our way into summer, it’s a great season to stop planning and start doing those home renovations. Here are the 6 signs to pay attention to begin the process.
1. WINDOWS DON’T OPERATE SMOOTHLY
If you’re having difficulty opening or closing your windows, this could signify something wrong with the window balance. Most aging windows develop balance issues, which lead to jamming and sticking. The formation of rust, rotting, or mold may also factor into this, indicating that your existing windows are nearing the end of their service life. If opening and closing your windows feels like a two-person job, it may be time to buy new ones.
You can’t leave this issue unaddressed because windows with compromised balance are hazardous. They can slam shut any time, potentially hurting anyone badly. Consider other factors, such as age, maintenance, and daylighting, because replacing jerky units can be worth the investment.
2. DECAY AND DAMAGE TO WINDOW FRAMES
Age and extreme weather can be harsh on your windows. They might sustain enough damage that quick window repairs just won’t cut it. And we know that Illinois weather can be severe in both summer and winter.
If your existing units have cracks, broken glass, chipping, rotting, mold, or decay, replace your old windows to enhance the decor of your house.
Our Infinity from Marvin windows uses Ultrex® fiberglass frames, ensuring superior durability and longer-lasting performance. Ultrex® fiberglass is eight times stronger than vinyl, expands 87% less than vinyl, and is resistant to leaks, seal failures, and stress cracks.
3. WINDOW CONDENSATION
Are your windows “sweaty”? This sweat is called condensation and can be a regular part of a window’s life. When warm indoor air mixes with cool outdoor air, condensation forms; it’s similar to how your bathroom mirror fogs up when you take a hot shower.
But what if you have windows experiencing too much moisture or condensation? That can indicate seal failure, and you may need new glass or windows.
If the seal has failed, it means that the water vapor has successfully breached the space, infiltrating the gap between the glass panes, which is reserved only for the insulating gas. A minor case of fogging would suffice to render the ability of your units to block heat less ineffective. Getting replacement windows is justifiable when they could act as a thermal barrier.
Click here to learn how to tell if your window condensation is normal or not.
4. EXCESS OUTSIDE NOISE
Your home should be your quiet space. Do you hear every car horn, dog bark, and other traffic noise inside your home? If you’re wondering when is the perfect time to replace your windows, excess noise is a sign your windows are not providing enough insulation. Marvin windows are engineered to reduce sound transfer, resulting in quieter, more relaxing living spaces.
5. WINDOWS ARE DRAFTY
If you feel a draft when you’re near your windows, this indicates that their seals are damaged, and it’s time to invest in replacing them.
A bad case of draftiness happens when the frames and sashes have gone loose. Wear and tear have created gaps, allowing the air to penetrate without resistance. This compromises your home’s thermal stability, putting extra load on your HVAC system and leading to higher energy bills. All operating windows do allow a slight amount of air infiltration, but you’re not supposed to feel the breeze when they’re closed.
Re-application of weatherstripping is nothing more than a temporary remedy. When it’s a weatherstripping problem, installing a new one is a quick fix. However, don’t expect your windows to have an airtight seal over the long haul. Buying quality replacement windows is the ultimate solution to elevate your home’s energy efficiency. Our window selection of Infinity® from Marvin keeps a durable, weather-tight seal that prevents air infiltration and leakage.
Replacing your windows will ensure the expensive energy remains inside your home. You can enjoy considerable energy savings by keeping the temperature pleasant without putting an extra load on your HVAC.
6. HIGH UTILITY BILLS
Any one of the signs listed above could cause high utility bills. If you’re noticing that your bills keep creeping up season after season, it may be a red flag that it’s time to replace your windows.
As your current windows reach the end of their life, cracks, leaks, and loose seals will start to form between the frames and glass panes.
Switching to high-performance units with insulated framing and low-E glass can significantly cut energy costs. As they reflect unwelcome heat and minimize energy leakage, they lessen the workload of your air conditioning system and promote energy savings.
With our large selection of windows in Illinois, you no longer have to worry about any of these issues. Do not allow the old and worn windows to impact your home’s temperature and comfort negatively.
If you notice that some window (or door) upgrades are needed, we’re here to help! Give our team a call by phone at (630) 755-6681 to schedule a virtual or in-home appointment with our Design and Energy Experts to get your projects started as soon as possible. Schedule your appointment today.
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