Windows might not be the first thing you notice when looking at a property, but they play a big role in the appearance of a home, and old or damaged windows will stick out like a sore thumb. Plus, windows do more than serve an important aesthetic function. They also help protect you and your belongings from the elements. That’s why it’s important to make sure the windows on your house are up to par. Below are a few tips to help you determine whether or not the windows you currently have installed in your house are sufficient, or if it might be time to start thinking about window replacement.
- Your Windows Appear Damaged, or Show Evidence of Damage
A damaged window should be repaired or replaced to ensure the proper protection of your home. If there’s visible damage to your windows, whether it’s subtle wear-and-tear from years of use or more noticeable damage from a recent storm, you should address the issue as soon as possible. Obvious storm damage like shattered glass, cracked frames, or broken shutters is easy to detect, but other signs of damaged windows include small water leaks, cracks, and chips that might not be noticeable without taking a closer look. In some cases, minor damage can be repaired, but in other cases, your best bet is to install new windows.
- Your Windows are Drafty
Even if your windows look like they’re in great shape, with pristine-looking glass panes and a fresh coat of vibrant paint on the frame, sill, and trim, older windows simply aren’t very energy efficient. In the winter, you’ll often feel a significant draft of cold air, and in the summer, heat will seep inside, diminishing the effectiveness of your air conditioning and running up your utility bills. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, the heat gained and lost through windows accounts for 25-30% of all residential heating and cooling energy use. Newer windows are much more energy efficient, and upgrading to new windows will help insulate your home and keep heating and cooling costs down.
- Your Windows Don’t Open and Close Properly
If you have a hard time opening your windows, or you can’t manage to keep them open without propping them up, it’s probably time for new windows. Windows should open and close smoothly and effortlessly. Wood windows can swell due to changes in weather, making them nearly impossible to open or shut. Opening your windows shouldn’t be a struggle! If you have old wooden windows and you decide to replace them with new energy efficient windows, you’ll be amazed at the difference.
Contact Kingsford Vinyl Siding Today
The windows on your home play a huge part in the appearance and curb appeal of your property. They also serve an important purpose. If they’re getting old or have been damaged, it’s important to replace them. Contact Kingsford Vinyl Siding for a consultation on window replacement in Raleigh or the surrounding areas. Our team will be in touch with you shortly to go over your options and schedule an appointment!