Your windows are likely well-made, but anything exposed to the elements will eventually change. Over time, in a decade or two, they’ll need replacement. Whether you are looking to buy a new home, fixing up your current home or looking to flip a home, eventually those windows will need to be looked into.
Your windows play a big part in your home’s energy performance and comfort levels. If your windows are damaged or simply outdated, they can’t perform as effectively. And when that happens, it’s time to replace them.
Like we’ve said your windows don’t suddenly become less energy-efficient. It happens slowly over months or years most of the time. So how do you know when they’re not as energy efficient and need to be replaced?
We have ten signs for Beaumont homeowners to look out for if you suspect your windows are past their prime. If one or more of these sound familiar, it’s time to look into replacement windows.
When to Replace Your Windows if You Live in Beaumont, TX
A typical home window has a lifespan of 15-20 years for most houses. This is also the case for homes located in Beaumont. Throughout that time, the sun and natural factors may take their toll on them, and the seals start to weaken or fail, which leaves you open to drafts and water seepage.
In addition, single-pane windows were the standard 15+ years ago. These windows lack insulation and are not as energy efficient as modern double-pane windows.
Time to Upgrade Your Old Beaumont Windows?
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Request Free EstimateWatch the video below for the top 6 signs that your windows need to be replaced and keep reading for more info:
Signs to Look for in Your Beaumont Windows
1. Your Windows Are Visibly Damaged
This is probably the most obvious sign you need to replace your windows for most homeowners regardless of location. When a window is damaged, it’s more likely to break completely, leaving your home open to more serious damage like water seepage, mold, mildew and pests. It also makes your home easier for intruders to break into or for falling debris to break the remaining undamaged sections. Getting a damaged window fixed as soon as possible will keep your family safe and help you avoid more expensive repairs in the future.
2. Your Beaumont Windows Are Drafty
Drafts are a problem for a few reasons besides the potential whistling of the wind. First, it means that the air you’re paying to cool is seeping out and the hot, humid air outside is making its way in. A room with drafty windows will feel less comfortable than the rest of your home, and may even feel more humid over time.
Second, because the outside air is seeping in, your HVAC system has to work that much harder to keep your home at the temperature you set.
To check for drafts, close your window, lock it and hold your hand at the bottom or top of your window sash where it meets the frame. If you feel air coming in, you have a draft.
3. Your Electric Bills Are Higher with No Clear Explanation
A lot of things can cause your electric bills to skyrocket, but if you’ve noticed that your electric bills have slowly crept up your windows might be to blame. Like we mentioned, drafts let the temperature-controlled air inside your house escape, which forces your HVAC system to work harder to try to keep your home at the temperature you’ve set. This drives your electric bills up and the increased workload can shorten the life of your HVAC unit. Replacing old windows with new, energy-efficient ones helps lower your monthly bills and makes sure your air conditioner doesn’t need to work harder than necessary.
4. Condensation Forms Inside Your Windows
Condensation on the inside of your window usually means your windows are leaking air and/or your home is humid. (Note: Condensation on the outside of your windows is not cause for concern. It just means that it’s warmer and more humid outside than it is inside.)
If you notice condensation between the panes of your double or triple-pane windows, it’s a sign that the air-tight seal has failed and the insulating gas has escaped. Whether it’s inside or between the panes, spotting condensation anywhere except the outside of your window is a definite sign they should be replaced. If you’re a Window World of Beaumont customer who is experiencing this, your windows are covered by our lifetime warranty. Just submit a warranty claim and we’ll take care of you!
5. Carpet & Furniture Around Your Windows Are Faded
If the furniture, carpet, rugs or decor that is exposed to the sunlight coming through your windows has faded, your windows probably aren’t don’t have the UV protection offered by modern windows with low-emissivity (low-E) glass. Low-E glass is treated with a microscopic film that keeps UV rays and solar heat from passing through. This prevents your furniture, carpet and curtains from fading, and helps to keep your home cooler.
6. Your Windows Don’t Dampen Sounds
While not every sound can be stopped, you can upgrade your windows to help dampen them. Whether your home is located near a heavily trafficked area, a highway or any other loud disturbance, upgrading your windows can potentially help you to reduce the pesky noises coming through.
7. Your Windows Have a Harder Time Opening and Closing
Every window can have a hard time opening and closing throughout its lifespan. However, if you have cleaned and attempted to fix this multiple times throughout the years and the windows only get worse, it may be time to look for replacement windows. A stuck window is frustrating and could lead to it remaining stuck in an open position, exposing your home to the elements.
8. Your Allergies are Worse than Usual
Notice you’ve been sniffling or have watery eyes more than usual? Depending on the time of year, allergens may be making their way into your home through ineffectively sealed windows. Even the best of window seals degrade over time, but if it’s been more than 15 years since your windows were installed, it’s time to replace so you can put those tissues away.
9. You Are Looking to Increase Your Curb Appeal
Curb appeal can be an important part of feeling at home! Whether you want to spruce up your home to modernize the look or to flip your home, replacing your windows can help with potentially increasing your curb appeal. Our windows are highly customizable, with plenty of options for colors and grid patterns to make your home unique.
10. You’re Looking to Increase Your Home Value
No matter how much you may love your home, you never know what the future holds. Should you sell your home in the future, you’ll want to get the most value out of your property. With replacement vinyl windows installed, you stand to add an additional $13,766, on average, to your home’s total value per Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs Value report.
Update Your Windows with Window World of Beaumont
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to trade your old windows in for new, energy-efficient ones! At Window World of Beaumont, we have a wide variety of window styles to fit every home style and budget. Contact us today to learn more and schedule your free consultation!