10 warning signs that it’s time to replace your windows in 2021
Updated: Feb 8, 2021
Many homeowners frequently overlook the importance of conducting a regular inspection of their windows. This notion comes from the belief that “okay-looking” windows provide the same level of performance, security and functionality as the new windows.
Even good looking windows may conceal warning signs of deterioration, “ageing,” that might finally lead to decreased security and performance along with increased utility bills and potential house damage.
Read on this blog post to find 10 most common warning signs that it’s time to consider replacing your windows.
Table of contents:
The average lifespan of residential windows is 15-20 years. Well-maintained windows, which are made of a high-quality and durable profile like VEKA Softline 82, last beyond the 20-year mark, reaching its service life up to 40 years.
Once your windows approach a second decade, it’s time to start thinking about replacement. However, your windows can reach its lifespan even before the end of the first decade, as several factors impact its ability to maintain excellent performance. These factors include:
Ease of window maintenance, ideally you need to have easy access to various parts of a window frame to perform cleaning and other service operations monthly.
Profile system and thickness, UPVC vs. PVC vs. Wood vs. Metal
Weather resistance, like hail- and storm-proof profile
… and many other factors that yield a combined lifespan of the window.
That’s why when your windows pass beyond its peak lifespan, it’s important to get in touch with your local window replacement contractor, and schedule an appointment to check the conditions of your windows.
Procrastination, in this case, might cause, for example, your timber frame to rot and decay. Bespoke Windows offer an emergency windows check service for homeowners in Calgary and area.
There’s one apparent warning sign of deteriorating windows – an increase in your energy bills. The lack of proper insulation and ill-fitting may cause your furnace and air condition work harder during peak times.
Depending on the condition of your windows, around 18 to 35% of heat can be lost through the windows of a house that is not energy efficient, according to the Government of Canada website.
More energy-efficient windows can save you an average of 45% on your energy bills, and if you convert this percentage into a dollar amount, then you’ll save between $126 - $523 per year.
As mentioned above, ill-fitted windows can increase your energy bills, as well as cause draft, leak and other serious issues. Therefore, the second most common warning sign to replace your windows is the increased difficulty of operating your windows.
Once again, there are many reasons why your windows might be difficult to open and close, but generally, these ones below seem to occur more frequently:
Poorly installed windows, you can examine your windows on the existence of any visible gaps between the frame and the sill.
Sash windows don’t close and open, it can be due to poor alignment, size and weight of the window sash (that’s why you might consider installing Tilt and Turn windows that offer greater impact resistance in comparison to traditional windows).
Paint
Poor-quality uPVC profile system that can expand and warp in hot weather, and tougher and brittle at lower temperatures.
Foundations of your home have shifted and the window frame is no longer fitting in the space properly.
In all of these instances, the new windows will solve the issue.