Windows and doors are essential components to any home. They contribute to the aesthetics of your home, can affect the comfort of the home’s interior, and they dictate how secure your home is. However, you don’t always notice the signs that it is time to replace your windows and doors, as they deteriorate gradually. There are telltale warning signs that will be a good indicator that you need replacement windows and doors.
We have prepared a guide explaining five of these warning signs, to help you identify when you may need to look into replacement options.
1. Faulty Operation
If you are finding it increasingly more difficult to open or close your windows or doors, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to replace them, but you definitely need to give them some attention. Over time your windows and doors can develop balance issues, which cause them to stick and jam. In some cases, all you will need is some minor maintenance, perhaps a bit of lubrication, or a tightening of a few screws. However, if these issues are a result of wear and tear, and the window or door itself has begun to deteriorate, you will need to look into replacement options. If ignored the issue will worsen, and the door or window may become seized.
2. Condensation Buildup
Not all condensation is necessarily a sign of an issue. Condensation on the inside or outside of your windows or doors can be expected from time to time. However, any condensation between your window panes is a sign of an issue. For condensation to build up in between your window panes, it means that the seal has been damaged and is no longer air tight. This drastically reduces the efficiency of this window. The only solution for condensation between your window panes, is replacement. If ignored, it could lead to drafts entering your home and increased energy costs as your HVAC system will need to work a bit harder to compensate for the faulty window.
3. Cold Drafts
If you feel a draft when you close your windows and doors, it means that the seals are wearing or already worn off. Your door’s weather-stripping helps ensure a tight seal with the frame, if this has worn out, it could lead to cold air to enter your home and for warm air to escape. A draft around where a window or door seals against the frame may need just a weather stripping replacement, however it could also be an indication that the frame has warped and a replacement is the only solution. Have an expert look at the affected area if the draft persists.
4. Increased Noise Level
If you begin to notice that the outdoor noise is being heard more inside your home than before, this can indicate that your windows and doors have lost their soundproofing qualities. Increased traffic noises, dogs barking or just from people walking outside your home are all an indication that there is an issue.
5. Physical Damage
Visible damage to your windows and doors caused by curved, warped, cracked, and rotted frames are a serious issue that you should address right away. Not only is this damage causing potential energy bill increases and is probably an eye soar. Visible damage to your windows and doors should be considered as a serious safety risk, as potential intruders may view this damage as an easy entry point to your home. Don’t delay to have broken or damaged windows and doors replaced as soon as possible.