Windows add beauty and value to a home, and are one of the most visibly appealing features of a house. In fact, a majority of prospective homebuyers say they are looking for energy efficient windows in their home. But how can you tell if a window might be ready for replacement? Use this checklist to help determine if your windows may be due for an upgrade.*
- Are your windows single-pane?
Most windows today are double pane, which greatly helps prevent heat transfer between indoors and outdoors.
- Do you notice any cracks or rotting in your window frames?
Some small cracks or amount of rotting in the frame can be fixed before it spreads. If more than 10% of the wood is damaged, however, your best option is to replace it entirely.
- Are you experiencing drafts near the windows even when they are closed?
Older windows may suffer from seals that are no longer airtight, as the glass has expanded and contracted with the weather over the years.
- Do you notice any cracks in the window panes?
Cracks are not only unattractive, but they can continue to grow and lead to worse problems.
- In colder weather, is the interior glass cold to the touch?
While the glass may still feel cool to your warm hand, it should be considerably warmer than the outdoors. Extremely cold interior glass means too much cold air is entering the space between panes.
- In warmer weather, is the interior glass hot to the touch?
Likewise, your windows should be able to withstand those summer temperatures and control the amount of heat entering the house, without the interior pane being overly hot to the touch.
- Can you hear a large amount of outdoor noise?
Most of today’s windows offer superior sound damping through multi-paned glass and glazing treatments.
- Are your windows no longer opening and closing properly?
As components wear down and houses settle, you may notice windows no longer open or close completely or as smoothly as they once did.
- Do your windows match the rest of your home’s design and decor?
Your tastes may have changed, or maybe you inherited a window style from a previous homeowner.
- Do you have inoperable or fixed-unit windows but want to increase air flow?
You have several options to replace inoperable windows, including windows with push-out, crank-out or sliding sash. - Are your windows painted or nailed shut?
You shouldn’t have to rely on DIY shortcuts to keep your windows sealed.
- Do your windows have Low-E glass?
Upgrade to a Low-E option and your energy bills will thank you. Windsor offers LoE 366 glass, with argon-filled insulated glass and a triple layer of silver.
If you answered “yes” to just 1 or 2 questions above, you may be able to resolve some issues without full window replacement. If you answered “yes” to multiple questions, it may be time to consider upgrading your home’s windows.
TIP: When replacing windows, it is recommended you replace all windows on the same facade at the same time, or replace all windows on the same level if it is a multi-story home.
Windsor makes it easier than ever to replace old, drafty, underperforming windows with our Revive Replacement Windows. They use your existing window opening to allow you to easily swap out the original window with a brand new Windsor window. No need to disturb the wood trim or other treatments!
Watch our video to see just how easy it is to update a home with Revive Replacement pocket windows. Or, visit our websiteto learn more about replacing your windows with Revive Replacement Windows.
*This checklist should serve simply as a guideline for evaluating window performance. Consult a home repair professional for advice before making any decisions.