As beautiful as those snowy Wasatch Mountains get in winter, they can also bring a chill to your living room if you don’t have quality windows. If you’re cranking your heat this winter but can’t seem to stay warm, it might be time to replace your windows.
When you’re constantly blasting your heat (or AC during those toasty desert summers) but the air is seeping out through bad-quality windows, you could be paying up to 25% more than someone who has energy-efficient windows.
Here are 7 signs to help you decide if it’s time to replace windows in your home:
1. Water Leaks
When water starts leaking through or around any of your windows, then that’s a sure sign you need to replace windows as soon as possible. Not only is water damage costly to repair, but if the windows are allowing air in, then your energy bill will likely skyrocket too.
2. Drafts Around Your Windows
If you get the shivers every time you pass by a window, there’s a good chance they’re not working effectively. Older homes were usually built with single-pane windows, and over time, tiny cracks form between the frames. The small cracks in the glass and holes in the seal between the panes and frames allow cold air into your home.
3. Condensation Between Frames
Visible moisture is never a good sign. When your windows get old or damaged, water vapor in the air can’t escape, so it condenses between glass panes. This is a sign that your windows are worn down and need to be replaced.
4. Difficulty Opening & Closing
Dirt, rust, rotting, and mold can all be contributors to stuck windows. If you’re constantly struggling just to open or close your windows, then it’s time for those windows to go. It’s incredible how accustomed we can get to little quirks in our home—once you replace windows with the latest window technology, you’ll be amazed at how user and cost-friendly your home can be.
5. Increase in Noise Pollution
If it feels like your home has become noisier over the years, that’s most likely because sound waves can easily travel through old and worn-down windows. If you can hear noise from the outside, then your windows are no longer doing their job of insulating sound.
6. Sun Damage & Fading
You might start to notice that the sunlight coming in through your windows is fading your furniture, carpet, and curtains. The UV protection in your windows wears down over time and during Utah summers, we get a total of 1094 hours of sun (that’s more than Tucson, Arizona).
If you’re trying to get a tan, that’s great news! But for your living room furniture? Not so much. Do yourself a favor and replace windows before the UV damage takes its toll.
7. Exterior Damage
If your window frames are starting to crack and warp, then you’re going to need a replacement. Cracking frames can cause gaps that let in unwanted air and noise pollution, so it’s best to take care of any exterior damages right away.
Replacing your windows also increases the curb appeal of your home, which is always a bonus!
When you notice any of these signs in your windows, it’s time to start shopping around for a window replacement. Installing new energy-efficient windows can not only help you save money on heating and cooling bills but also make sure that your family stays comfortable all year long!
What Is the Window Replacement Process Like?
Your window replacement usually begins with a consultation. A specialist from the window company you’ve chosen will come to your home and inspect the existing windows to determine which type of window is best for your home. After that, they’ll measure each window frame and order replacement windows that fit perfectly.
Once the new windows arrive, installation begins. Depending on the type of windows you select, installation could take anywhere from a few hours to several days. Once the replacement process is complete, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of energy-efficient windows.
Trust the Utah Window Experts to Help You Save on Your Window Replacement
Replacing your windows can make a huge difference in your home’s comfort level and energy bills, but it’s not a project to tackle on your own. Our team of experienced professionals has helped countless homeowners in Salt Lake City and across Utah replace their windows with top-of-the-line energy-efficient products that are built to last.
Schedule a free in-home consultation today so you can feel the difference good windows make!