3 Reasons Your Home Needs New Windows
New windows may give your home an updated look, but appearance isn't the only reason to consider replacement. Inefficiency due to age, defects, and loss of proper window function can compromise the safety, comfort, and security of your windows. For these reasons, you should know when to schedule a window replacement.
1: Age
Older windows may look functional, but there are hidden issues that could be costing you money.
Efficiency
Windows lose efficiency as they age. Loose glazing, broken seals, and thin single-pane glass are signs that your windows are no longer as efficient as they used to be.
Further, new standards in efficiency combined with emerging technologies, such as solar treated glass and insulated windows, mean that today's windows are better at preventing heat or cooling loss. If your energy bills are much higher than your neighbor's then your old windows may be to blame.
Quality
The best quality windows from several decades ago may still be adequately efficient for your needs, especially in a mild climate. But there are other quality issues to consider. Older glass may have a wavy appearance that distorts your view. Issues with small scratches and abrasions may also lead to cloudy windows.
Aesthetics are also a concern. Frames, in particular, can begin to look dated, which can bring down the appearance of your entire home.
2: Defects
Defects to the window glass and frames that occur over time can lead to problems that necessitate a replacement.
Condensation
Condensation between the glass in multi-pane windows means that the windows have lost their insulating capabilities. Insulated windows consist of two or more panes of glass with a gas fill between each pane. Damage and defects in the frames or seals can lead to gas loss. Moisture may then move into the empty space, resulting in condensation and window spotting that is nearly impossible to remove.
Drafts
You shouldn't feel any drafts around your windows. Drafts indicate that a seal has failed. In some cases you can update the weather stripping to fix drafts. In other instances, drafts may be the result of frame defects that allow air to get in around the exterior of the frame. You may be able to caulk some gaps, but others may be too severe for this type of repair.
Consult with a glass company to determine if your windows should be fixed or replaced.
3: Function Loss
Over time, windows can begin to suffer from function loss. The result is windows that don't work as they should.
Warpage
Frame warpage is more common on wood frames, although other materials can warp over time. Moisture exposure and repeated exposure to temperature fluctuations are the most likely causes of warped wooden frames, and the damage usually can't be reversed.
Vinyl frames may warp if they are exposed to extreme heat. Your home's settling can also warp both metal and vinyl window frames. Once the frames are warped, the window may be difficult to open or close, or drafts around the frame may become a problem.
Frame Damage
Damaged frames can also prevent a window from opening and closing properly. Metal frames can rust or corrode, vinyl can crack, and wood may rot.
Rust or corrosion is the main problem with metal frames, and the resulting weak spots and holes means that the frames no longer keep the weather out of your home. Cracks on vinyl frames result in a similar problem.
Wood rot occurs when the paint or finish on the frame wears off and exposes the wood to moisture. Over time, the wood begins to rot and decompose until it slowly falls apart. Rotting wood may appear swollen, or the paint may bubble and peel.
Contact Nor Sac Glass Company today, and we'll help you choose the perfect new windows for your home.
