It’s a sad truth of home ownership; that, unfortunately, those home improvement projects that are most often costly and time-consuming are also those you shouldn’t neglect.
However, window replacement is such a big endeavour that sometimes it gets pushed back or, at times, completely forgotten until a serious issue arises. But it shouldn’t be this way. While upgrading your windows takes a lot of effort, it can improve the overall appearance of your home and help you save on energy costs, too.
But how can you tell that such a renovation project is needed? After all, every house is different, meaning that the causes of problems might vary from one household to another. For this reason, we pulled together a list of indications and implications that will help you figure out whether the time to invest in new windows has come. With that in mind and without further ado, here are 6 obvious signs that your home needs new windows.
Your Windows Aren’t Energy Efficient
If you want to reduce your energy costs, especially if you have noticed an increase in your monthly bills, then it’s best to take care of this issue right away. If you observe that your windows are letting in too much heat during summer or aren’t insulating well during winter, it’s time to start looking for new ones. Investing in energy-efficient windows can help you save on energy costs and protect the environment at the same time.
It’s even more important if you heat your house with electricity. You might notice a significant difference in energy use, especially during a power outage.
Your Windows Are Noisy
If you hear strange noises, such as rattling or whistling, coming from your windows and there is no strong wind outside, this could be a warning sign that something is wrong. Try moving different parts of the window and see if those noises disappear or change their tone. Chances are, those noises come from worn-out parts, which means that you should consider investing in new windows as soon as possible.
You might need to inspect the frames and caulk for damage. If there are no apparent signs of cracks or splits, then you should move on to checking the weather stripping that seals the frame to the molding. If it’s worn and cut in places, chances are you won’t be able to seal the window properly.
Equally problematic but falling with broadly the same camp are windows that, rather than making concerning noises, are allowing too much noise in. Sometimes, all you need to do in such instances is change the glass or use uPVC window sprayers, but in more dramatic cases, the whole window, frame and all, may need replacing.
There Is Significant Condensation Between The Panes
Condensation between panes is a sign of poor quality or faulty installation, and it means that your windows need to be replaced as soon as possible. When water gets trapped between panes, it can cause damage and even mold growth if left unchecked for too long, which is why you should make sure to take care of this issue in a timely manner.
Metal Parts Are Rusting
If you notice that some of the window parts are rusting, it’s best to get in touch with a professional at once. This might be a sign that your windows are of poor quality, used, or that they were installed incorrectly in the first place. If your windows have been in use for years on end, then it’s best to have them replaced for safety purposes.
There Are Cracks In The Windows
The cracks can appear for several reasons, such as the house settling, the wood becoming too dry, or even significant temperature changes. While replacing the frames only requires a simple fix in most cases, the same thing cannot be said for older windows that have been in use for several years. If you notice cracks in the frame, it’s best to check whether they extend to the sashes. If they do, you are likely dealing with rot, so you should replace the windows fast.
Leaks Appear Around The Window
If you notice that there are water spots on your walls, floors, or elsewhere that are not coming from inside of your home, then you should consider checking your windows for leaks. This is one of the most common issues when it comes to windows, and, more often than not, it means that you need to get new ones installed. This is because leaks are hard to deal with and because they can lead to serious damage.
So, How Much Might A New Window Replacement Cost?
The cost of replacing a window is certainly higher than repairing it, and will depend on the frame material, size, and window glazing choice. The region of the UK you’re in will also play a part in the price; replacement windows in Glasgow, for instance, cost between £600 and £1500, whilst in London you could be looking at double that, at least.
The Bottom Line
If you notice that your windows are starting to show some of these signs, it might be time to replace them. It’s best to address these issues as soon as possible before the situation gets worse, which will make the renovation costlier and more time-consuming.
With the help of the tips and tricks provided above, you should be able to notice the warning signs and act on them accordingly to avoid substantial damage. Window issues are not to be neglected!