When to replace your windows

Replacing your windows may seem like a project you can put off, but in reality, quality windows are crucial to the functionality of your home. Not only do windows provide a view to the outdoors, but they also keep out bugs, drafts and dirt. If you've been putting off window replacement for a while, it may be time to inspect things to make sure your windows are up to par. 

Is there visible rot?
It's a fact that wood deteriorates with time. Mold and mildew can speed up this process, and unfortunately the humid summers and wet winters of the Northeast are the perfect environments for these harmful things to grow. They can eat away at your windows or cause them to warp. This allows drafts and other unwanted things to easily pass through the gaps. If you notice that your windows have begun to rot, it's time to hire a professional window expert to assist you with the installation of new windows.

Are you making your home more energy-efficient?
Going green is all the rage these days, but aside from being trendy, it can also save you money. Replacing your windows is essential to creating an energy-efficient home. Your windows act as a filtration and insulation system. In the winter, they should keep cold air from getting inside. In the summer, they should keep cool air from escaping. Poorly insulated windows can increase the cost of your heating and cooling bills. 

According to window experts, if air leaks through 14 windows that are 28-inch by 48-inch in size, it can add up to the equivalent of a hole the size of a wall in your home. 

To avoid paying for lost heating and cooling, install high-quality energy-efficient windows.

Do your windows fit well in the frame?
A poorly fitted window does about as much good as a frame with no window at all. Peeling sealant and gaps between the window and the frame are major signs that it's time to replace your windows. Wind, pests and other unpleasant things can find their way into your home if the problem of ill-fitting windows is left unaddressed. You'll want to consult knowledgeable professionals with experience installing expertly fitted windows.

Replacement windows can change the way you view the world.

Is the glass in good condition?
Glass with scratches or cracks detracts from the joy of looking outside. Scratched or cracked glass is unattractive, and it can create bigger problems later on. For example, weakened glass is less likely to withstand storms and heavy wind. Before you find yourself faced with a shattered window, consider replacing your old ones with new insulated, high efficiency windows. 

Before you begin replacing your windows, talk with a reliable home improvement expert about the different types, styles and functions available for your home. These experienced professionals can show you how certain window styles would look on your home and assist you with the entire process. Not only will new windows improve the curb appeal and value of your home, but they can save you money.