With many homeowners trying to add value to their homes there is the common query of if one should replace their windows. There are a lot of benefits that you can achieve by replacing your windows but if your windows are in good condition you may not need to change them at all. The problem is that you may not be able to tell your windows need replacing just by looking. They can get worn and deteriorate without it being visually obvious so here we will help you to determine if your windows need replacing.

Replacement windows can be expensive and because of this some people don’t examine their windows because they don’t want to find that they need to be replaced but letting them stay in a bad state may only allow you to spend more money in cooling, heating and energy bills. Here are a couple ways you can check your windows to see if they need to be replaced.

  • Check window casements for chips in wood, rotting or broken pieces, missing pieces and growth of mold and mildew. When your casement is not firm your glass is at risk of being broken if your kid’s balls hit it or when the weather is colder. The molding should be fixed and the glass should be secured firmly. If you find any loose pieces that can be reattached or tightened do that to buy you some time as you start your search for replacement windows.
  • Check the glass for any weak areas or other signs of weakness. Signs of weakness includes the glass shaking when you have high winds or if your window rattles when it is being opened and closed. If there are chips, cracks or breaks in the glass then its strength is lessened. Check to see if glass panes are out of kilter and for other damages from objects such as b-b guns.
  • Check the functionality of your windows. Many homeowners do not open their windows ever. Open your windows to check if they open and close easily. Allow them to stay open, do they need to be propped open or do they stay open by themselves?
  • Check window mechanisms to see if they are working properly. Are locks, locking? Are latches and springs working? Does the window close completely? Do lift cables work to properly lift and lower your windows?
  • Look for signs of infestation from pests. If you find small piles of a sawdust looking substance you may have carpenter ants. If your window is not closing properly you may find mice, rats, squirrels or snakes attempting to enter through any cracks left as they try to escape the cold of winter. Look on the outside of the window for gnawing on moldings; this will indicate that there is a hole where heat is escaping attracting these pests.
  • Has your heating or cooling bill along with your energy bill spiked recently? This may indicate that there is heat exchange occurring between your home and the outside.

If you find any sort of damage on your windows then the answer is yes your windows need to be replaced. This is especially true if the damage to your windows is causing heat exchange between the indoors and outdoors which will cause you to lose a lot more than just the price of the replacement windows and their installation.

 

Before you purchase windows from your local window replacement company down the street, get a couple estimates from even the larger companies that you are certain will cost more – you may be surprised. Remember to check their credentials by checking their rating with the Better Business Bureau and checking their customer reviews and testimonials online.