House maintenance is crucial to the longevity of nearly all house features. Whether doors or windows, you want to ensure that they’re always in good working condition.
Windows, in particular, tend to take a backseat when it comes to discussing home renovations. If you get replacements from Universal Windows Direct of Syracuse New York, you’ll better appreciate the importance of robust and durable windows.
Whenever homeowners think of the selling points of their houses, curb appeal usually comes to mind. While sturdy doorframes and lush lawns usually constitute a major part of this curb appeal, windows are also important.
Well-fitting, shiny windows can make the difference between a profitable house sale and missing out on a good selling opportunity. Good windows aren’t just about selling your house.
They can prevent outside air from seeping in, making it difficult to control the internal house temperature.
This is one of the numerous problems that a homeowner can encounter due to having bad windows. This makes window replacement a crucial part of house maintenance.
Knowing when to replace your windows isn’t always straightforward. Unless you’re an expert on house renovations or something similar, you may not know when exactly to replace your windows. The following signs and occurrences can help you tell when it’s time to replace your windows:
1. High Utility Bills
Abnormally huge utility bills might mean you’re using too many electrical appliances. Or it could mean that there’s inefficiency in power usage. A good place to start looking for this inefficiency is your windows.
Like most things, even the most durable windows have a natural lifespan. When the end of that lifespan is approaching, minute cracks and fissures start to develop between the window frame and the wall into which it’s fixed.
These tiny openings allow in air. The effect of air coming in through many such holes will mean more cold air into a room.
Heating such a room becomes challenging; a thermostat or whatever heating system is installed will have to consume more energy while trying to bring such a room’s temperature within range.
This, of course, means more power consumption. When you experience a spike in your power bills due to worn-out windows, it’s time for a replacement.
2. After Severe Weather Conditions
Storms and other such weather occurrences tend to take a toll on the physical condition of a house. A window is one of the house features that get affected most.
However, storms are not the only harsh weather conditions that can negatively affect the integrity of your house windows. Strong winds and humidity from seawater with high salinity can all do a number on your windows, reducing their longevity in the process.
If your house is located in coastal areas or regions most susceptible to experiencing harsh weather conditions, it may be a good idea to inspect your windows every few months to ensure that they are still in good condition.
More often than not, replacement is the only choice for damaged windows due to such weather conditions.
Read Also:
3. Unusually Audible Noise from Outside
Part of a window’s function is to ensure that excessive noise is kept from infiltrating the house.
However, when noise levels from trivial sources like regular car horns and dog barks become a distraction, it may be time to replace your windows.
This usually means that they’re not effectively providing the kind of noise insulation they’re meant to provide.
4. Water Damage
Damage to your house windows can occur due to several reasons. In addition to extreme weather conditions, water leaks can also lead to decay.
This is especially true if the window frames and their surrounding surfaces have some wood as part of their construction. The decay can make the wood flimsy, making it easier to crack and splinter.
This isn’t good news for your windows. Such damage should tell you it’s time to consider window replacement.
5. Excessive Window Condensation Between the Glass Panes
Condensation on your window glass, the so-called “sweats”, is usually an indicator that your window’s glazing is losing its effectiveness.
This could mean its seals are failing, making it easier for water vapor to find its way between the glass panes. Replacing such a window with energy-efficient ones can solve this problem.
Your windows play a crucial role in the curb appeal of your house and protecting it from natural elements like dust and water. Replacing them when needed can go a long way toward keeping your house looking good.
