When should you replace your windows?

By James Golden

The situations that call for you to replace your windows can be divided into two categories – functional problems and appearance problems.

If you’re having functional problems with your windows, you can usually tell very easily. If your windows are leaking, rotting, sticking or simply falling apart, it’s time to get them replaced.

Although your windows may look fine, higher than usual heating and cooling bills often mean that your windows are not providing the same insulation that they used to.

Consider the savings in energy and money

Even though window replacement may initially seem like a financial burden, the energy savings provided by new windows with modern efficiency features are usually worth it.

When you move into a new house, or even if you’ve just been in the same house for too long, you might come to the realization that you dislike your windows. Perhaps you live in a more traditional home and you think you need double-hung windows instead of the casement windows you have.

Vinyl or wood frame choices

If you think your vinyl frames don’t provide the same measure of elegance the rest of your house demands, get wooden frames that can be painted to the exact shade you desire.

Or are you sick of painting your wooden frames to keep them from look shabby? Get vinyl frames. In these cases you will almost certainly benefit from the energy savings that new windows provide as well.

Resources:

Andersen Windows – Window Problem FAQs

The Home Renovation Guide – Windows, Repair or Replace