When considering a home renovation, windows are not always on the top of the list, even though they are one of the most essential parts of a house’s architecture. Windows play a huge role in maintaining the house’s atmosphere. Warped and damaged windows not only add to the messiness and unattractiveness of your house but also increase heating and cooling costs. This is because damaged windows can cause a huge loss of thermal energy in winters and cool air in summers. If not attended, damaged windows can cost you a significant amount of money every year.
But how can you tell when your windows need an upgrade? For starters, a smashed glass or a hanging frame is not the only sign your windows require change. There are plenty of other signals that may be far less obvious to the human eye, but still, require you to consider upgrading your windows.
If you are wondering whether to refresh your windows or not, here are 5 clear signals of your windows demanding a replacement:
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Planning a home makeover
Windows play a huge part in your house’s overall appearance. Worn out windows can make an entire building look old and shaggy while the right ones can provide an instant oomph to your property. Hence, if you are planning a house makeover, do give your windows the attention they deserve.
A good builder always knows that one of the secrets to the longevity of the structure is good design. However, quality should not be compromised for good design at any cost. The driving force in windows selection should be the overall theme and design of the house. While upgrading the home design, you might as well consider upgrading the type of windows from fixed sash to ones that open or from a single panel to double panel windows. This way, a comfortable interior with improved airflow can be established.
One more reason as to why you should go for new windows while renovating your house is the size of the windows. You would not want a modern-style house with the same old-fashioned window now, would you? The aesthetic benefits aside, installing broader, larger windows if you previously had smaller ones, can provide numerous health benefits from good airflow to a better circadian rhythm.
If you wish to further freshen up the look of your windows, consider adding some trendy roller blinds on your windows– they are easy to install and are sure to add a touch of class to your interior. Roller Blinds in Sydney has some great options you can check out.
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Clear signs of damage
You might have some warped or damaged windows, but this doesn’t mean that they all require a replacement. An analysis of the damage is necessary to conclude as to whether the windows could be fixed with a repair or a replacement is necessary.
Sometimes, windows have minor problems such as spoilt weather-strips, or damage to the frame. In such cases, a repair at home or from a carpenter might work alright. However, if your window frame is hanging from a single nail crying for its dear life, it definitely needs to be replaced. You might feel like you can continue with a damaged window for a little longer, but any delay in corrective action can be costly and it is better to get rid of any such problems as soon as possible.
Windows that fog a little too often are also a sign that they need to be changed. The fogging of old windows is caused by the worn-out glass; hence a glass-change may be required.
Alternatively, you may find your window frames becoming brittle and chipping off over time. This is caused by water infiltration in the frames and is a sign of rot. In such a case, it is better to install new window frames before they start causing trouble.
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Drafty windows that add to your energy bills
From storing enough heat to keep your house warm during winter to let in a cool breeze during summer to improve the temperature inside the house, windows play a huge role in our daily lives. However, a drafty window that lets outside air come into your home does not only make you uncomfortable in your own home but also adds to your energy bills. On average, drafty windows cause an increase of 10 to 25% in the energy bills. Thus, replacing your old windows with energy-efficient ones can help reduce the money wasted on heating and cooling appliances.
Damaged windows also cost you your sleep. Poor quality sleep, especially at night, usually happens due to poor windows. Old and run-down windows with no sound insulator bring all the noise from outside into your bedroom, disrupting your sleep. And isn’t comfort the main reason why we sleep inside our houses, instead of on the streets?
Good-quality windows minimize the noise from outside to give you the desired sense of privacy and peace, as well as prevent unwanted wind from outside coming into your home.
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Extreme climatic conditions
Our houses withstand all kinds of natural disasters in order to protect us and in return, deserve the same treatment from us when they are in need. Climatic conditions such as blizzards, tornadoes, and hurricanes damage our windows significantly, not only from the outside but from the inside as well. Hence, your windows are likely to require either a repair or a replacement, after witnessing any kind of extreme climatic conditions.
Even windows that look unscathed from the outside may need a change as storms and blizzards result in water infiltration, which might be invisible right now but is sure to show later on with disastrous consequences if left unattended.
If you are living in an area that is located near the coast or one that is prone to severe weather conditions, you should always be prepared for window changes as windows are significantly damaged by extreme weather. In coastal areas, the humidity and sea salt brought by strong coastal winds has a significant impact on windows and consequently, they may require frequent repairs. Such areas require windows that are made from corrosion-resistant material with expandable glass to be able to withstand the temperature changes.
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Difficulty Opening and Closing Windows
If you are having trouble opening, closing or locking your windows, it could be due to several reasons. Incorrectly installed windows tend to have such balance problems while corroded or rotting window frames can also cause these problems due to rusting.
If you can’t open or close your window properly, the basic purpose of windows to provide you a sense of comfort and safety is defeated. Poor ventilation, noise and unwanted heat or wind from the outside will affect the atmosphere of your house. Additionally, stuck windows tend to make irritating sounds every time you force them to open or close. For these reasons, such windows are best replaced.
Conclusion
Windows are an integral part of any home and therefore, should be given the attention they deserve to ensure they continue to work at their best. Follow these tips so that your windows keep you comfortable and safe while minimizing your energy bills, no matter what the season.
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