Window and doors age is not an exact science, but there are certainly windows that should be replaced at certain ages according to general guidelines. Some, for instance, may not last beyond 30 years while others might extend up to 50 years. While replacement windows can seem costly upfront, it’s important to think about it in terms of their performance over time rather than strictly on their price tag or age. If they aren’t performing well anymore, you’ll have to replace them anyway; might as well do it earlier than later when it started deteriorating in the first place, right?
But, how do you know when it’s time to replace windows? To help you decide, here are five signs that windows need replacing:
1) Air infiltration is worsening over time
If they aren’t sealed properly and allow for air infiltration (air leaks), feel drafty or push/pull open, this could mean the weatherstripping has either deteriorated or isn’t present anymore. This can also happen if any parts of your windows have loosened up through age or damage. If you’re starting to notice these signs, that means there may already be air leaks in your windows right now–and they’ll continue getting worse over time if you don’t take action. It’s important to fix them before they allow energy loss because this will cause your windows to deteriorate more quickly.
2) The windows are difficult to open/close
When they are no longer easy to open or close, this may be a sign that weatherstripping has deteriorated through age or wear and tear. Weatherstripping is the barrier at the bottom of windows that prevents air infiltration. If weatherstripping is missing it can result in drafty windows with larger gaps – increasing air infiltration while also decreasing energy efficiency because there won’t be an adequate barrier to block outside air from getting inside.
3) They are warped or discolored
If they are beginning to warp, they may be suffering from sun damage. This is just one of the signs that windows may need replacing because they can’t be repaired for this type of damage. Once they get old or are exposed to strong sunlight over time, the wood begins to dry out and crack. This might also account for windows being difficult to open/close. Another sign that windows need replacing is if their surfaces have become cloudy or stained – these indicate severe water infiltration, which will cause more problems down the line if it’s not fixed!
4) Mold on/around windows
Mold is a sure sign that they need to be replaced because windows that have been exposed to excessive moisture can cause mold growth, which becomes difficult to remove. If they have been wet for days or weeks, the only option is to remove and replace windows completely.
5) Ineffective windows
In addition to windows being airtight due to weatherstripping damage, they might not insulate well anymore if they’ve deteriorated through age. If your windows are inefficient it will lead to more energy loss in your home – not a good situation in the middle of winter when you’re wasting money on heating bills! They should be replaced if they aren’t performing as expected anymore.
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