Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Home’s Windows

Chances are that it’s been a while since your home received new replacement windows. After all, windows are routinely an investment made every 15 to 20 years in your average home. Still, you may be looking for signs that it is time to replace your windows and symptoms that it may be time to invest in new windows.

As one of Eastern Iowa & Western Illinois area’s premier replacement window contractors, the experts at Centennial Home Improvement have a good eye for helping homeowners discover if new vinyl windows are in their future. Here are several things to look for if you’re wondering how often windows should be replaced.

When to Replace Windows

You may be asking yourself how to know if you need new energy-efficient windows. First, you must inspect your windows at least once a year to determine if their quality deteriorates slowly or quickly. As one of the lines of defense for your home, window quality can degrade depending on several factors, such as climate and window type. 

But when you’re performing a self-inspection, keep an eye out for the following signs. 

Drafts or Leakage

If you’re feeling warm or cool air inside your home, look at the windows in the room. Temperature variations near your windows tell you outside air may seep or your inside air leaks. 

Energy Cost Fluctuations

As one of the best ways to control energy costs in your home, windows need constant inspection. Check your energy bill during the coldest and warmest months of the year to see if you’re seeing extreme cost swings or steady increases year-over-year. New windows – especially ones rated by ENERGY STAR – can help you save several hundred dollars a year!

Material Degradation

Windows are made from many materials, such as wood and vinyl. If you’re seeking cracks in the material or clean breaks, it may be time to replace that window – especially if you’ve had it for decades. 

Broken Panes

This one should be a no-brainer. The panes of glass that make up your window are delicate, and any damage to those panes is cause for concern. Cracked or busted panes need immediate attention. 

Sudden Condensation

Condensation forms during sudden and swift changes in temperatures. If this happens on the inside of your windows, that tells you that the seal between the panes of glass and the frame has failed, and the gas insulation has leaked out. A replacement is necessary in this case. 

Age

If you’ve lived in your home for over 20 years, you probably have replaced your windows at least once. If not, then it’s time to consider replacing your windows. Old or outdated windows make your home look out of style and cost you money. 

Louder Sounds

You may not believe it, but your windows also do a fantastic job of dampening sounds. The outdoor world can be loud depending on where you live – especially in more urban areas or crowded neighborhoods. If you hear the birds chirping louder or the cars that zoom past your home, your windows have lost the ability to help keep things quiet. 

Trouble Opening or Closing

Using windows to their fullest extent means you’ll want to open them occasionally. However, if opening and closing them becomes laborious, then it usually means the mechanisms are starting to fail. Older homes with wood windows typically have this issue because previous homeowners may have painted them shut, which also becomes a safety issue. 

Rely On Centennial to Help!

You need a trustworthy replacement window company to help you choose the best replacement windows for your home. Centennial Home Improvement proudly has partnered with POLARIS WINDOWS & DOORS to provide you with the best replacement window options. If you’re ready to upgrade your house, enhance its curb appeal, or help raise its value, contact us today to learn more!

 

Serving the Quad Cities, Iowa City, IA, Galesburg, IL & Surrounding Communities Since 2015

We’ve built a reputation across Eastern Iowa & Western Illinois for Quality, Value, & Integrity. Whether you’re repairing your vinyl siding, installing new vinyl replacement windows, or tackling a full roofing and siding upgrade, Centennial is here to help.