An average household window can be expected to last between 10 and 20 years, depending on the material they are made with. If your windows are approaching the end of their life, or you don’t know how old they are, there are clues you can look for. Here are six signs your windows need replacing.
Your windows are letting in drafts
Can you hear the wind whistling through a gap or feel cold air rushing in through your window? Window seals can deteriorate over time and start letting the outside in. Although it might not be noticeable in the summer, by winter the problem can become very obvious and let more than cold air in. Insects and vermin can make use of this new entry into your home, even if it is very small a gap.
Your windows have been damaged
If you live in an area with harsh winters or intense summers, windows can be weather beaten or fade due to high UV. Discolouration, warping, mould and chips are all signs that your windows need an upgrade. Do you see condensation in the glass? That can indicate the glass is damaged, possibly from a rouge stone too small to see easily but destructive. Perhaps you had some building work done that caused damage or they are simply falling apart due to age; the sooner you deal with the damage the better.
Your windows don’t open or close properly
Are your windows really stiff to manoeuvre? Do you have to double check they actually lock? Are they difficult to open? Apart from using our windows for sunlight and views, they are an important escape route if there was a fire. If you aren’t able to easily open your windows to shout for help or climb to safety, it is time to get new ones.
Your energy bills have increased
Everyone in the UK is seeing energy bills increase now so this might seem obvious. However, as you go into winter, pay attention to which rooms need heating more than others. Do you constantly find yourself upping the thermostat because the living room gets colder than the rest of the house? Checking that the windows are up to the task of keeping the heat in and the cold out, can prevent unnecessary overspending on heating. You can read about energy efficient windows in our guide.
Your windows aren’t soundproof
Can you hear a busy footpath or road outside your living room? Do your neighbours’ noisy chickens or pets wake you up early in the morning? Good quality windows help soundproof your home, reducing noise pollution and improving quality of life. You can test the effectiveness by comparing the noise levels in your house to a neighbour’s. If they have newer windows and a quieter home, it’s a sign. Your windows aren’t as effective at soundproofing as they could be.
They are not visually appealing
Tastes and trends change over time. What was fashionable 10 years ago can look outdated now. This is just as true with exterior and interior window designs. Homeowners want their house to look beautiful, and ugly or unmatching windows can be very displeasing to the eye. Getting a new set of windows that appeal to your personal tastes is a fantastic visual statement. It can also makes a house look much more attractive to potential buyers.
Giving your windows a regular check for their condition will highlight any problems before they get too bad. This also gives you time to plan replacing them. You can talk to our friendly team for advice by calling 01234 771100 or by sending us a message.
