6 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windows

So, how can you tell when to replace your windows? Our home improvement experts are here with some telltale signs that your windows are past their prime.

When to Replace Your Windows

1. Your Windows Are Over 15-20 Years Old

Old windows are more than an eyesore, they could be costing you money every month. As windows age, they become less effective at protecting your home from the elements. If your windows are over 15 years old, replacing them will increase your home’s comfort levels, lower your energy bills, and provide superior protection from the elements.

2. Your Windows Are Damaged

Visible damage on your window frames or a broken window is a definite sign it’s time to replace your windows. A damaged window frame is more likely to break completely, which leaves your home vulnerable to even more serious damage. Always get a damaged window fixed as soon as possible to avoid more costly repairs later on.

3. Your Windows Are Drafty

If your windows are drafty, you’ll feel air coming in, even when your windows are closed. And if you can feel air coming in, that means the heated or cooled air from inside your home is escaping to the outside. That means your energy bills are probably higher than they should be, which we’ll discuss more below.

If you’re not quite sure if your windows are drafty, there is an easy test. On a breezy day, lose your windows and carefully hold a lit candle to one of the seams of your window. If the flame bends, you have a draft.

4. Your Energy Bills Have Increased

If you’ve noticed an increase in your monthly energy bill with no other explanation, your windows may be to blame. When heated or cooled air escapes through drafty windows, your HVAC unit has to work harder and/or longer to compensate and keep your home comfortable. Replacing old windows with new, energy-efficient ones helps lower your energy bill and lets your HVAC unit work more efficiently.

5. You See Condensation Inside Your Window

Condensation inside your window is a sign that the insulation on your windows isn’t as effective as it should be. (It’s important to note that condensation on the outside of your windows is not a problem. It simply means the temperature outside is humid and slightly warmer than your window’s glass.)

If you notice condensation on the inside of your windows, it typically means your home is humid and/or your windows are leaking air. If you have double or triple-pane windows and notice condensation between the panes, it means the air-tight seal has failed and the insulation is no longer able to do its job. Either way, condensation anywhere except the outside of your window is a sign it’s time to replace them. If you’re a Window World customer, your products are covered by our lifetime warranty. Just contact us and we’ll take care of your windows!

6. Your Furniture, Carpet, or Window Treatments are Faded

If your decor has faded much faster than you expected it to, it may be because your windows aren’t offering the protection offered by modern windows with low-E glass. Low-emissivity (low-E) glass is treated with a microscopic film that keeps UV rays from passing through. This prevents your furniture, carpet, and curtains from fading, but it also helps keep your home cooler.

Update Your Home With Window World of Tampa

If your windows have seen better days, it’s time to upgrade them! At Window World of Tampa, we have a variety of window styles, including impact-resistant windows for an extra layer of protection against hurricanes. Contact us today to learn more about our product lines and to schedule your free consultation!