5 Signs You Need To Replace Your Windows
How do you know when it’s time to replace your windows? At times it can be tough to gauge when it is time to replace your windows. There are more reasons than just visible damage and deterioration to consider replacing your windows such efficiency, operation, and aesthetics.
Below we have highlighted 5 signs that it may be time to replace your windows. On a side note these also apply to doors.
1. Excessive Noise
Your windows and doors are great at allowing natural light and fresh air into your home, but this shouldn’t come at the expense of increased street noise. Your windows and doors are built and installed in a way to help block most of the external noise, ensuring you can enjoy your family time or even alone time uninterrupted. However, if you begin to notice that there is more noise that penetrates into your home than it did before, this could be a sign that your window may be damaged or the seals have given way. This additional street noise can be extremely frustrating, especially if you work from home or have young children that are constantly being woken from their naps. Replacement windows and doors will have the ability to once again block this noise, and ensure you are able to enjoy the time in your house without interruption from people and vehicles passing by.
2. Difficulty to Operate
As windows age, they may bend out of shape or become unaligned. This causes kinks in the operation of the window as the sash may rub against the frame, or hinges and cranks may become seized. In some cases, all that is needed is some lubricant. But, in most cases when it is tough to open or close a window, you decide to live with it or you look for replacement options.
3. Uneven Temperatures
When the seals on your windows are no longer working at an optimal level, drafts can pass through. As well if your windows have shifted from the frames or the caulking has peeled back drafts can enter from around the frames. If you notice cool or warm spots in your home, especially by windows and doors it is more than likely caused by a draft. Not only will these drafts reduce your comfort level in your home, your HVAC system will need to work harder to maintain the desired temperature in your home, causing your energy bills to go up.
4. Pest infestation
If your windows and doors are not sealing properly or have rotten sections, this can lead to a pest infestation in your home. Sometimes you may see a spider or other bugs in your home and think nothing of it. But, if you frequently come across these types of insects, you need to think that they are getting in somehow. Wooden windows are susceptible to rotting which may create an opening for bugs and even mice to get into your home. A pest infestation could lead to property damage and can even negatively impact the health of everyone in your home.
5. Damage
No matter the extent of the damage, you need to consider replacing any damaged windows and doors right away. You may think that you can live with a small crack in the glass or the frame for now, but this damage will more than likely spread as the temperatures change with the seasons. Damaged windows pose a large safety risk, if someone accidentally bumps into the window the damage can spread leading to broken glass potentially flying about. It also poses a security risk, as would be intruders and burglars see damaged windows and doors as easy access points to a home.
5 Warning Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Windows And Doors
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.
How to Maintain your Exterior Doors?
Your home’s exterior doors require some attention every now and then to ensure they look great, function properly, lasts a long time. Many homeowners however unintentionally neglect their exterior doors, forgoing any maintenance.
Did you know that most contractors recommend you inspect and maintain your entry doors frequently? This will help you identify and potentially prevent potential problems and safety issues.
Below we will cover what our specialists recommend about maintaining your exterior doors.
1. Clear Dirt & Debris
Cleaning your doors on a regular basis is the first step in a regular maintenance program. This will help prevent the build-up of dirt and dust leaving your doors looking beautiful, and functioning properly.
2. Oil Hinges Often
Squeaking doors are not only annoying, but they can be difficult to open and close. Cleaning and oiling hinges at the same time as cleaning any dirt is a good practice. Once you have applied oil to your hinges, rub it around with a cotton swab and wipe away excess oil with a dry cloth.
3. Inspect Weather Stripping
Inspect and wipe down the weather stripping around the door and the frame. If needed, replacing it as soon as you see the damage. This will help you deal with vulnerable areas of your door and will prevent air from flowing in and out of your home. If your weather stripping has a build-up of grime and dirt, you can clean it with ordinary dish soap and warm water.
4. Consider applying a fresh finish or layer of paint
This is an excellent tip, especially if you have a wooden entry door. You can add an extra layer of protection to your door with a coat of paint, finish, or stain. It is your ally in preventing wear and tear and can prolong your door’s lifespan while showcasing a fresh new look.
5. Replace Damaged Doors
Your exterior doors are an integral part of your home, your doors provide both security and comfort. If you notice damage on your exterior doors, this can affect your home's comfort and the security provided by the door. Consider replacing damaged doors or doors that are hard to close or open sooner than later, as studies have shown that home intruders tend to take advantage of a home’s vulnerability such as a damaged door to access a home.
Like most moving parts of your home, your entry doors need regular attention, but the attention doesn’t need to be extensive. Minor maintenance that includes wiping down the door, clearing debris, oiling hinges, and inspecting weather stripping is really all that is needed to ensure your doors stand the test of time.
5 Window and Door Tips to Beat the Summer Heat
Apart from keeping your air conditioners in top condition, there are helpful window and door tips that can help you beat the summer heat without causing a spike in your energy bills. Consider the tips below to take care of the sweltering summer heat.
Windows and doors provide access to the outdoors, and they can also let heat into your home during the summer months. If your windows and doors are in bad shape, look to hire a professional and experienced window replacement and door replacement contractor to ensure your home is ready to hold off the summer heat.
Full replacement aside, there are other ways to help keep your home cool during the hot summer months.
1. Seal Cracks and Holes in Your Caulking
Check your windows and doors frames for cracks or holes in the caulking that can cause air leaks. Seal all crevices, cracks, and holes with new caulking. For smaller areas, you can go over the existing caulking, but for areas with major damage, it is best to remove the old caulking and replace it with new caulking. This will help prevent warm air from entering your home and cool air from escaping.
2. Inspect Watherstripping on Windows and Doors
Check your windows and doors for possible wear and tear of all weatherstripping materials. Replacing any damaged weatherstripping on your windows and doors to prevent cool air loss in your home. The fractional space between the window and door frames is enough for cool air to escape and warm air to enter your home. Properly weatherstripped windows and doors help guarantee a complete closure, without the possibility of air leaks.
3. Use Thick Curtains
Installing thick curtains will help to block out the sun’s heat from coming into your home. You can also use light-colored blinds to reflect the incoming heat. These blinds and curtains can also help improve the aesthetics of your home while adding to the look and feel. Closing your curtains and blinds when you are away, effectively prevents heat from entering your home, ensuring you come back to a nice cool living environment.
4. Close Windows and Doors
This may seem like a basic tip, but ensure you shut your windows and doors tightly to retain cool air in your home and hot air out all day. Leaving your windows and doors open, even slightly during the day will cause the temperature in your home to increase significantly.
5. Open Windows and Doors
Keeping your windows and doors closed all day will help prevent hot air from entering your home, but opening your windows and doors during cooler nights will help by allowing cooler fresh air to circulate around your home, and letting stale air to escape.
How are uPVC Windows Beneficial for Your Home?
If you have been thinking it is time for a window replacement, you have several options to consider before moving ahead with your project. With new windows comes the opportunity to change the style and function of your windows as well as the look and feel of your entire home. The type of material your window frames are manufactured from is another decision you will need to make for your project. There are multiple options such as wood, aluminum, composite and even fiberglass. An increasingly popular option is uPVC, we will go over what you need to know about uPVC below.
uPVC is short for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, a term most of us are not familiar with. However, many of us have been in close contact with the material before, as most vinyl windows are made out of uPVC. The material is more ridged, and doesn’t warp or discolour as fast as regular PVC windows. It is also more weather and fire resistant than PVC. But, the main difference is that uPVC is BPA and phthalate free, which is important for you and your family’s health. BPA is a toxic chemical that is found in some plastics and has been linked to neurological and immunity issues among other potentially dangerous health hazards.
These windows have gained in popularity because the material is easy to work with, and can be used on a wide array of window sizes, styles and shapes. uPVC windows are extremely durable, they are bug and fire resistant, they won’t peel, rust, or rot and the colour won’t fade for decades. Maintenance for uPVC windows is fairly easy, all that is needed is a light wash a few times a year using soap and water. Because these frames won’t chip or flake, there is no need to paint. Even if the frames get scratched, the colour goes through the entire frame, so there will be minimal visibility of the scratched area and no need for touch-ups.
You may have asked yourself are replacement windows worth the cost? uPVC windows are manufactured air tight and when coupled with other window efficiency features will limit warm air from entering or escaping your home. When heating your home during the colder months and cooling your home in the warmer months, these windows will help maintain your ideal internal home temperature, meaning your HVAC system will not need to work as hard and saving you money on your energy bills.
uPVC windows are also great at reducing outside noise, if you live in a busy neighbourhood or close to a major street, you know that outside noise can often penetrate into your home. uPVC windows offer great sound dampening, so when the windows are closed you are able to enjoy the company of your friends and family or simply enjoy some quiet time without being disturbed with what’s happening outside. You will probably be hard pressed to put a value on the peace and quiet.
When looking into replacing your windows, you will have many options to sort through. At Riverbend windows and doors, our focus is on you, and helping you find the right product for your London area home. Give us a call today at 226-688-8652, for a free consultation!
Why Use Double Hung Windows?
A double-hung window is a stylish alternative to the single hung window. They come in a wide variety of styles and framing options. This traditional window style features an upper and lower sash that slide vertically past one another in a single casement. Double-hung windows are often placed adjacent to decks, patios, and walkways. So, why should you use double-hung windows? What are the advantages of double-hung windows? Here are 5 pros of double-hung windows in your home as a window replacement:
1. Save on Energy Costs
If you’re looking to save on energy costs, invest in high-quality double-hung windows. Did you know that most homeowners receive up to 50% energy savings? You can increase insulation with triple weather seals and “XL Warm Edge” spacer technology.
2. Improved Ventilation
Double-hung windows offer improved ventilation capabilities and the ability to control airflow. If you want maximum ventilation, just open both top and bottom sashes. The top sash will allow warm indoor air to be expelled through it and the bottom sash will let cool and fresh air into your home.
3. Optimal for Cleaning
Double-hung windows are designed to offer ease of maintenance. They have tilt-out sashes which make for a hassle-free window clean. You’re able to clean both the interior and exterior from inside your home. Some double-hung windows even have removable sashes too.
4. Versatility
Double-hung windows are popular for their class appeal, making them suitable for any home or room. They come in a variety of sizes, styles, and shapes, as well as a wide range of colour and materials. So regardless of your home’s style, whether traditional or contemporary, double-hung windows are going to fit right in.
5. Easy to Operate
Double-hung windows don’t crank out or project outwards. You can easily open the top and bottom sashes by sliding down from the top and up from the bottom. Their design is meant to eliminate the risk of accidents in high traffic areas such as decks, patios, and walkways.
How To Choose The Right Windows For Your Home?
Before you choose different window styles, frames and glass types, try to write on a piece of paper all of your personal preferences considering comfort, budget and efficiency. Make sure you know the amount of ventilation and light every room needs as the atmosphere you’ll get will depend on the type of window you choose.
And before you end the window shopping spree, make sure that all of the details have been gone through at least twice. The whole process can be time consuming and costly. However, if properly done window replacement can provide you with better insulation therefore higher energy efficiency and reduced bills.
Style
The style of a window determines amount of ventilation, obstruction of outside views, energy efficiency and the overall aesthetic of one’s home. Each window style suits different environments and offers different benefits. For instance, double-hung windows work best for traditional style homes, but if you want unobstructed views or living space, maybe you should go with sliding. Here are the basic window styles:
Casement – They are usually installed in kitchens because they are easy to operate in hard to reach areas and provide great ventilation. They are hinged on either left or right and open like a door, catching that ideal breeze angle.
Awning – Same as casements, awnings open with a hinge and give great ventilation angles. They usually are smaller and installed in bathrooms. Their biggest advantage is that they protect the rooms from falling rain or snow.
Sliding – When opened, sliding windows do not interfere with the living area and that’s why this window style is highly recommended for small sized rooms. They also haven’t got large and distracting frames which makes them great for rooms with limited natural lighting.
Single/Double Hung – Hung windows are the most child friendly as they cannot be climbed through or walked into. Single Hungs open only from the bottom, while Double Hungs can be operated from both sides (top and bottom).
Picture – This window type cannot be opened and is solely used for increasing the amount of natural light. Picture windows are also a part of bay or bow which consist of more openings and have the center window static (picture) and the surrounding windows operable (usually casement or hung).
Frames
Window frames are made from various materials. The type you choose will determine the home’s aesthetics and energy efficiency; and the window’s maintenance and lifespan. When choosing a window frame, apart from looking at the pricing, try to put focus on efficiency ratings and lifespans. Here are the basic types of window framing:
Vinyl – Fortunately for homeowners there is a frame material which is cheap and energy efficient at the same time. Its name is vinyl and it’s the most common choice for homeowners. Vinyl has a lifespan of 40 years and requires much less maintenance than other materials. That is why vinyl window replacement has a ROI of 78%. People love this material for homes.
Aluminum – The biggest advantage of aluminum frames is their strength. They are recommended for rainy, humid and storm climates. If you are living in a hurricane prone zone, this window frame should be installed in your home. Aluminum also has a high performance in heat transfer and loss. However, it has a short life span of 15 years and less energy efficiency than other materials.
Wood – If you are a vintage buff then you probably have wood frames, at least in one room. Wood is a great insulator and it has a long lifespan, but unfortunately is vulnerable to pesticide, rot and mold growth. This is why wood isn’t recommended for rainy areas. However, the quality of a wooden frame mainly depends on manufacturers and the type of wood they have chosen.
Fiberglass – This material is good for anything, including window frames. Fiberglass is the most expensive one on the market, but it offers many benefits for homeowners. High energy efficiency, significantly longer life span and limited amount of maintenance are its biggest strengths. The biggest advantage fiberglass has over vinyl is that it can be repainted as much as we want and it cannot bend or twist.
Composite – Technically, fiberglass is a composite window frame as it consists of both polyester raisins and glass fibers. However, we use the word “composite” to describe frames which upgrade wood by protecting it with clad (usually made form aluminum or vinyl). They have all the benefits as they are made from wood and are completely recyclable, have a longer lifespan, require less maintenance and are highly energy efficient.
Glass
When completing a window replacement project, one should give attention to the type of glass as well. If you spend less money and purchase low quality glass, it won’t matter if your frames are fiberglass or composite, the insulation will still be bad. Do not choose single pane windows as more panes means better energy efficiency. Double or triple pane windows give more means of protection from the cold air breeze at night and from the hazardous UV rays in the morning. Manufacturers have more variations for the filling between the panes.
Argon & Krypton – both are odorless natural gases found in the atmosphere. They are put between glass panes to improve thermal efficiency. Krypton is denser than Argon and therefore better, but both of them are denser than air. This provides homeowners with better insulation than air the one gotten from air-filled panes.
Low E-Glaze – If you want your glass with the highest possible quality, you should look for Low E-glazing. This is an invisible thin coating which is applied on either the inside or the outside of panes. It improves thermal efficiency with reducing heat transfers. Low E is highly recommended for warm climates as it reflects sunlight back from where it came and prevents abnormal increase of heat in the inside of a home.
To choose the right glass for your windows, follow the Energy Star ratings. Energy Start means that the product has passed the tests for energy efficiency. Other values you should look out for are U-factor and R-value. These have to do with the glass’s capabilities to manage heat energy.
U-value represents the amount of heat loss through the window. The lower U-value, the better insulation in your home.
R-value represents the window’s ability to retain and absorb heat. The lower R rating, the worse quality of insulation.
Riverbend Windows & Doors
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Should I Replace All My Windows at Once?
When looking at window replacement for your home you have many options in terms of design, colour, style, and functionality. But one question we get often is: Should I replace all my windows at once?
The short answer is that you do not need to replace all of your windows at the same time, but there may be benefits in doing so. Buying new windows is an investment in your home, and you shouldn’t sacrifice quality, style preference, or performance in an attempt to meet a timeline.
Here are four factors to keep in mind when deciding on which windows replace:
1. Cost
The overall cost of the project needs to be taken into consideration. Price per window will decrease when replacing multiple windows at the same time, if your project is keeping the window replacement team busy for the entire day (usually a minimum of 6-8 windows) you should be receiving the best value. On the other hand, if you are looking to replace a window or two, you may be paying a premium.
2. Aesthetics
Maintaining the aesthetics of your home is very important, especially if you are considering only replacing a few windows at a time. People will opt into replacing an entire side or one level of their home to maintain a uniformed look versus randomly choosing windows to replace.
3. Budget
If replacing windows for the entire home is in your budget but you are concerned about the inconvenience it may cause to you and your family, do not be alarmed. Replacing windows for an entire house can be done much quicker than most renovation projects such as a bathroom or kitchen remodel. A professional team of window installers can replace the windows in an average sized home in two to three days, this includes cleaning up daily and the removal of the old windows and all garbage.
4. Benefits
One big advantage of replacing all your windows at once is that you will fully take advantage of the benefits of the new windows including improved energy efficiency, enhanced safety and security, improved functionality, enriched aesthetics, and an increase in the overall value of your home.
Ultimately the decision on if you should replace all your windows at once is up to you and your situation. If you have a damaged window or just a few that are in bad shape you can choose to replace those individually, but if you are in the position to complete the project all at once you will benefit from all of the advantages that window replacement has to offer and heighten the overall beauty of your home.
What Are The Signs You Need New Windows?
The significance of windows on the aesthetics and economic value of a house cannot be downplayed. Right windows enhance the curb appeal of a house, as well as the energy efficiency of a house. However, if your home is about 20 years old, you certainly need window replacement because the windows may have exceeded their lifespan and lost their efficiency.
If you are thinking of window replacement and wish to know the signs you need new windows, read the tips below to guide you appropriately.
1. Increasing Energy Bills
One of the signs you need new windows is the increase in energy bills. The chances are that your HVAC unit is working more than necessary to keep your home warm or cooling due to the outdoor air that enters the house through cracks or holes on your windows. Compare the current energy bills with what they used to be about six months ago. If you have not purchased a new appliance and there is a significant increase in the energy bills, start fixing the issues by replacing your windows.
2. Physical Damage
You do not need to be told that you need window replacement when your windows have visible signs of damage like warping, cracking, rot, damaged hinges that make a squeaking noise, and lots more. Take a walk around your house and examine all the windows in your home for visible physical damage that undermines their efficiency.
3. Window Operation
Another sign you need new windows is the difficulty in opening and closing your windows. Your windows should not be difficult to open or close. But the moment you can no longer operate your windows without hassles, prepare for window replacement to avoid an accident that may result from forcing your windows to open or close.
4. Poor Soundproofing
If your windows can no longer reduce outdoor noise when closed, your windows have failed and list their soundproofing property. Your windows should prevent noises outside your home from disturbing you. But once you get disturbed by the sound of a passing vehicle and other noises across the road, you should have window replacement done in your home as soon as possible.
5. Condensation
If your windows look foggy and you cannot see the outdoors through them, and the fog fails to evaporate, your windows should be replaced soon. What that means is that your window cannot protect your home from the external temperature any longer.
Consider the five signs above to plan for window replacement in your home. Replace the windows to experience more comfort in your home.
How Do You Know If Your Window Needs Replacing?
Although the usual lifespan of windows is 20 years, you may need window replacement sooner than the expected lifetime of your windows due to certain critical factors. Several factors determine the durability of your windows, such as the materials used, quality of installation, and other factors within the home.
However, carrying out a window replacement project at the right time will help to prevent further inconvenience and resulting effects of worn windows. As a result, read the tips below to know if your windows need replacing.
1. Drafts
If your windows allow drafts into your house and you feel the outdoor temperature filtering with your home, you need window replacement. Your windows are not functioning appropriately again. If your windows have single-pane glass, you can upgrade them to double glazing to keep drafts out. Note that having drafts and cold air in your home could be that the window seal or caulking has been removed. Thus, replace the windows as soon as possible.
2. Visible Damage
Your windows are exposed to the harsh elements and frequent operation, which make them subject to damage. Little wear and tear may have accumulated and resulted in significant damage that causes your windows to underperform. With visible signs such as rotting frames, removed or cracked caulking, gaps in the windows broken glass, and removed sashes, among others, you unavoidably need window replacement.
3. Condensation
If your windows are double glazing and have condensation inside the panes, which makes the windows look foggy, you need to replace the windows. The implication is that your windows have failed and will not keep your home as warm as expected. This will also affect the energy efficiency of your home if left not replaced.
4. Faded Carpet, Curtains and Furniture
If some parts of your curtains, carpet, and furniture, that are close to the windows appear more faded than the rest, the chances are that your windows have failed and allowed the harmful UV-rays into your house. Do not think twice; call a professional contractor for window replacement to protect your properties from the damaging ultraviolet rays.
5. Difficult Windows Operations
When your windows can no longer open or close without giving a struggle as if you are fighting, you undoubtedly have to replace them. You should not have to engage in a fitness test when opening or closing your windows.
The above are signs that your windows need replacing. Take advantage of high-quality and modern designs of windows on the market for your window replacement project.