Eliminate the Guesswork and Get Ahead of Your Window Replacement By Watching for These Changes

Windows are not just for letting in light or adding ventilation; they also contribute significantly to your home’s curb appeal, energy efficiency, and overall comfort. Over time, however, windows can deteriorate, leading to various issues that compromise your home’s appearance and drive up utility bills.

Sometimes problems with windows can be hard to spot. Other times, they are obvious. The good news is that there are a number of telltale signs that it’s time to swap out your old windows for new ones.

Great Plains Exteriors is here to help you recognize the signs that it’s time for replacement windows. Taking action early not only means that you can avoid damage that occurs when old windows are neglected, but it gives you time to explore all the options available for new windows while enhancing your home’s value and comfort.

How Often Should My Windows be Replaced?

The average lifespan of windows is between 15 and 30 years depending on the quality of the previous windows, the craftsmanship of the previous window installers, and the materials used.

In Kansas City and the surrounding areas specifically, this lifespan can also vary depending on the amount of exposure your windows have from extreme weather. In high-exposure areas or with prolonged periods of extreme weather, the natural expiration date for your windows might drop between 10 and 15 years, requiring an earlier window replacement.

Either way, you don’t have to wait that long to replace your windows. Instead it’s better to understand the problems to proactively look out for so you can respond quickly.

When Should I Replace My Windows?

Watch for these signs that window replacement is imminent.

Condensation Is Forming

If you notice condensation on the inside of your windows or between panes of glass, that might be a sign that the seal is broken. Some condensation is natural, and can form as a result of heat or cold transfer through the metal spacer between the glass panes. Switching to windows with a foam spacer instead can help eliminate this issue.

However, spotting condensation between the panes of glass is a good indicator that the seals have been compromised. Another sign is that your windows appear foggy, despite your best efforts to clean them. Replacing seals requires removing the entire window frame in almost all cases. If the window is already on the older side, it is probably more cost-effective to consider a window replacement to avoid future replacement down the line.

A good window installer will talk you through your options in a consultation so you can decide together whether a full window replacement is necessary.

Your Home Feels Drafty

One of the most common signs that you’re in need of a window replacement is the presence of drafts or air leaks. If you notice a drafty flow of air around your windows (even when closed), it is a good indication that the seals have deteriorated, allowing air to infiltrate the home.

As glass warps over time and rubber gaskets and adhesives degrade, outside air will inevitably slip inside. This is often most noticeable in winter, when you feel chilled despite your furnace running. In the summer, key indicators might be inefficient cooling of the house from your AC unit, or more obvious signs such as insects entering through gaps in the window frame.

Not only can drafts and air leaks compromise your comfort, but they also can also result in increased energy bills as your HVAC system works harder to maintain a consistent temperature. If this is the case, contacting a window company like Great Plains Exteriors to get a quote might be the right move for you.

You Have Cracked or Broken Frames and Panes

Spreading cracks, battered frames, and windows that no longer open and close properly are important indications that you might be in need of a full window replacement. Major window pane cracks are usually a serious issue and often need to be addressed immediately.

A trustworthy window installer can help you understand your existing windows’ condition and make recommendations for next steps to secure your home.

Your Energy Bills Are Rising

Have you noticed a steady increase in your energy bills despite your efforts to conserve energy? It might be that your windows are to blame.

Old, inefficient windows allow heat to escape during the winter and prevent effective cooling during the summer. This means your heater or air conditioner are working harder to maintain the temperature you selected on your thermostat.

By investing in new windows from a window installation company, you can reap the aesthetic benefits of new windows while lowering your energy bills at the same time. Replacing your home’s old windows could reduce your bills by about 25%.

You Hear Lots of Outside Noises

Older windows with single-pane glass offer minimal sound insulation. If you find that outside noise is excessively loud inside your home, like traffic, passersby on the sidewalk, or barking dogs, upgrading your windows could help keep your home more serene. Our window replacement company offers windows with double or triple-pane glass that provide superior sound insulation.

It’s Time to Sell Your Home or Boost Curb Appeal

A new, updated set of windows can elevate the value of your property, significantly up your curb appeal game, and attract potential buyers seeking evidence of a well-maintained home.

If you’re looking to sell your home in the near future or want to improve your curb appeal and home aesthetics, new windows are a great idea. Replacing windows has an average return on investment of as much as 90%, making it a top item on the list of professional renovators and real estate agents.

For a Window Replacement Company That Can Shed Light on Your Window Solutions, Call Great Plains Exteriors Today

Choosing the right window company and the best-rated window replacements can be a daunting task, but Great Plains Exteriors offers ideal solutions that fit your style preferences and your budget. Our wide selection of windows from industry-leading manufacturers includes vinyl, wood, and composite materials in styles such as double-hung, casement, bay, and more.

For fair prices, expert craftsmanship, and outstanding customer service, call Great Plains Exteriors today!