Windows are essential features in your home, both for its health and appearance! They allow you to connect to the outside world, provide natural light and fresh air, and preserve your home’s internal temperature.
There are many different types of windows for homes. Still, something they all have in common are the signs they show when they break down. Drafts, heavy condensation, difficulty opening or closing, increased energy bills, or increased noise volume from outside are all signs that you need to replace windows.
Replacing windows can feel overwhelming, especially if you have an old home or uniquely shaped windows. At Oaks, we know every building is as unique as its owner. When it comes to replacement windows, we’ll always offer a personalized experience, never a one-size-fits-all solution.
Today, we’ll discuss the five signs you need replacement windows and when to hire a professional contractor.
Drafty Windows
Do you still feel like air leaks in when your windows are closed, especially on windy days? If so, your windows may not be sealed correctly.
Drafty windows let air in through cracks or gaps in the window pane or the openings around the window. This can cause cold air in winter or hot air in summer to flow into your home. Since your heating or cooling system has to work extra hard to regulate the temperature, this can lead to higher energy bills.
You will probably feel air leaks to suspect them, but it is important to find where the leak is the strongest. This will help you temporarily stop the heavy air flow.
You can do a few at-home tests to detect air leaks in your home.
The candle test: Light a tall candle, such as a pillar or taper candle, and hold it next to the window while the window is closed. The flame should stay still, but if it continues to flicker and dance around, it indicates that the window has a draft.
Incense/smoke test: The U.S. Department of Energy recommends this at-home test for detecting air leaks in your home. They say to “light an incense stick and carefully pass it around the edges of common leak sites. Wherever the smoke wavers or is sucked out of or blown into the room, there’s a draft” (U.S. Department of Energy).
Higher Energy Bills
Have you recently experienced a spike in your energy bill? Or have you moved into a new home with drafty windows? Having sealed and energy-efficient windows directly impacts the price you pay for your monthly electric bills.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use” (U.S. Department of Energy).
In other words, without energy-efficient windows, your home could lose a significant portion of its air conditioning or heating.
Suppose you have a temperature-sensitive thermostat or HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system). In that case, this heat or cooling loss will most likely cause your system to overcompensate for energy loss, leading to a higher energy bill.
Condensation Between Window Panes
During cold months, a little condensation on the inside of your window is normal. However, if you are noticing condensation between your window panes, this can be an issue.
If you notice moisture or fogging between the panes of your window, it’s likely that the seal on your insulated glass unit (IGU) has failed. Modern double-pane windows are often filled with argon gas for added insulation. When the seal breaks, the gas escapes and moisture enters, reducing the window’s efficiency and clarity.
Many types of windows have two seals. One is in place to prevent moisture, and the other supports the window’s strength. With one of these seals broken, your window is at risk of developing mold internally, damaging the window frame, or the glass could weaken to the point of breaking.
We recommend hiring a professional window contractor to assist you with this problem.
Hard-to-Open Windows
Is it difficult to open or close your windows? Here are our suggestions to make your window glide easier.
Check for dirt, dust, and grime buildup in the window’s track. This can cause the window to stick. You can help reduce this problem by cleaning the window’s track with a brush or vacuum. You could also apply a window-safe lubricant to help them slide smoothly.
If you have an old home, your windows may have worn-out or outdated hardware. Windows with pulley systems or old hinges can make opening and closing difficult. You could replace the hinge hardware at a hardware store.
Older windows can warp and become misaligned as the building’s foundation settles over time. If you suspect your windows are jammed due to a structural issue, it would be a good time to contact a professional about realigning them.
Loud Noise Through Your Windows
Wear and tear on window materials from weather, long-term use, the home settling and expanding, single-pane windows, or gaps and cracks in the windows can all contribute to increased noise coming into your home.
DIY options, such as window inserts or soundproof curtains, could help to some degree, but most of these methods are only temporary fixes that require blocking out natural light.
Hiring a professional to find the noise’s access point and create a tailored solution for repair or replacement will be the best long-term fix for this window problem.
Decide Whether to Hire a Professional
It can be challenging to decide whether to spend money on a professional installation or try to solve the problem yourself.
Installing windows is time-consuming without previous knowledge, tools, and team help.
Hiring a professional allows you to access product warranties, insurance, and protection if something happens with the product or installation. A professional contractor will provide you with a long-term solution that will fix the root cause of your problem.
A bonus, professionally installed windows can boost your home’s curb appeal and value for sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What questions should you ask a window replacement contractor?
Ask about experience, insurance, warranties, different types of windows, project timeline, installation process, and whether they have a showroom that displays their products. At Oaks, we have multiple showroom locations where you can see our interior and exterior offerings: Webster, NY, and Spencerport, NY.
How much does it cost to replace windows?
Getting a company to quote your window project is a good way to get a starting idea of the cost of replacing your windows. The cost depends on the type of windows in your home and how many you want to replace. Every home is unique, and additional needs may arise as the estimator views the project.
How to replace a window?
Replacing a window is a detailed process. It involves removing the old window, taking many steps to ensure it will not allow mold growth, being sealed properly, and more. Keeping safety, warranties, and experience in mind, we will always refer you to a professional window contractor for this project.
Contact Oaks Roofing & Siding for an Estimate and Installation
If you’re thinking about new windows for your home, contact Oaks Roofing & Siding. We have over twenty years of experience in the industry, and our team provides exceptional solutions to homeowners. We can provide estimates, a 3D rendition of your home’s new look, and installation services. Book an estimate today to see how we can install quality windows to help protect your home for years to come.