If you have a home that is over 20 years old with the original windows, there’s a good chance you may be in need of a window upgrade, even if they don’t show the obvious signs of age. Additionally, even if your home isn’t that old, you may still be in need of new windows so it’s a great idea to check their condition occasionally. Run down, old or damaged windows not only detract from the visual appeal of your home, they may also pose a security risk, and importantly they may seriously impact the overall comfort of your home and its energy efficiency. Let’s take a look at some tips to help identify whether your windows need to be replaced.
Rising Energy Bills
As the temperature drops during winter and rises during the summer, heating and cooling bills will do the same, however if your windows are on the older side, it’s likely that much of the warm or cool air produced by your heater and air conditioner is going to waste which means so is your money. Older windows are generally single pane and prone to leaks, so replacing them with newer windows especially with double glazing, will mean an increase in energy efficiency saving you loads on your power bills.
Difficult Window Operation
Are your windows becoming harder to open and close? If it requires a bit of force and pressure to open, it’s time to replace them. Windows that have become hard to open is a sign that tracks have worn out, hardware has seized up or timber has started to swell. Opening your windows should not be a struggle, they should open and close effortlessly.
Drafts
If you feel a breeze when standing by your window, chances are you have an air leak. You can verify this easily with a burning candle. If the smoke moves when you hold it close to your window, this is a sign of a leak. Replacing your old leaky windows with new windows will ensure a tight seal, and with the addition of double glazing your home will stay much warmer and you will have a lower power bill!
More External Noise
The best energy efficient windows will absorb sound waves before they enter your home, so if you are hearing every car, sneeze, or footstep that happens outside of your home, the seals are very possibly damaged. If you live in a particular noisy area, it might be a great idea to consider double glazing your new windows as this will dramatically increase sound proofing and help with noise cancellation.
Fading of Carpet, Furniture and Window Furnishings
Older windows may not have glazing options that keep out UV rays leading to colours of carpet blinds or furniture fading. By upgrading to laminated glass you can eliminate most of the sun’s damaging UVA rays which helps minimize the fading of your interior. Low E glass and tinted glass options will also reduce some UV as well as reducing natural sunlight which also plays a part in fading.
Advantages of Replacing Your Windows
If you have any or all of the above signs in your home, then you need to replace your windows. New, modern windows have many benefits including:
- Improved energy efficiency. Modern glass, and even better, double glazed windows combined with new sealing techniques will ensure your windows can cut down on energy costs tremendously.
- Improved comfort. For the same reasons, new windows can keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
- Increased safety and security. Older glass is weaker and tends to shatter in an unsafe way. Modern glass is stronger, keeping you and your family safer.
Windows are an investment that will boost the value of your home and significantly improve its visual appeal, they will also increase the amount of natural light in your house, help with noise cancellation and significantly increase energy efficiency. Whether you are trying to improve your home’s appearance or save money on your energy bills, a window upgrade is a great project that is sure to pay dividends.
Need to replace your old windows? Open Windows and Doors are your local aluminium door and window suppliers and installers in Perth. Our aluminium doors and windows are custom made to perfection to suit your specifications and installed by professionals so contact us for a quote today.