Home maintenance is synonymous with investments. As a homeowner, you often need to juggle your budget to tackle essential priorities. However, when it comes to defining which improvement should take priority, home window replacement rarely makes it on top of the to-do list. Homeowners often choose to delay changing their windows for the benefit of other improvement works. Understandably, you may choose to focus on other objectives that can seem more in line with your interior style or your home functions. However, windows are much more important than you think. If you are still considering keeping your old windows for longer, here are 7 crucial reasons why you can’t afford to skip replacement services.
#1. They offer no protection against intruders
An old window can add charmful features to your facade. They bring the property to life, reminding visitors of the past of your home. Quirky window frames and locks are a tasteful addition. However, they can expose your home to high risk. Indeed, burglars can force old window structures open with minimum equipment. It takes them less than a minute to open your windows with a putty knife. Unless you live in a historic property that requires specialist window renovation, there’s no excuse to keep an old and breakable structure any longer.
#2. They increase your energy costs
Your windows can let the cold air in during winter and the heat through in summer. Air infiltration creates an unpleasant draft. More importantly, it forces your heating or HVAC system to work harder to regulate the home temperature. Old window structures often struggle with poor insulation as the frame becomes brittle and damaged. Unfortunately, you can’t fix the issue through DIY insulation best practices. When the frame lets the outdoor air through, you need to replace your windows. As a rule of thumb, air infiltration can increase your energy bills by over $300 per year. Ask yourself: Is it the kind of expense you’re happy to make year after year?
#3. They are not impact-resistant
From heavy rain to strong wind, the colder months can bring unpleasant weather. If you live in an area prone to storms, you want to invest in secure windows that can resist the impact of flying debris. High wind is a common source of risk in winter, as it can carry small wood and waste off the ground. Even if your home is not in a hurricane zone, a windy winter day could be enough to shatter your windows. The last thing you want is your home to fail to protect you from regular weather occurrences. Fragile windows break easily.
#4. They put your structure at risk
Does your window frame feel soft or on the verge of breaking? Wooden frames can become porous over time. If your frames let the air and water through, your home structure could be compromised. Typically, you would notice points of infiltration on the outside. However, if the water continues to seep through the structure, the entire wall around the window will be cold to the touch. Additionally, water can weaken the wall. Therefore, you need to look for signs of structural damage, such as thin or wide cracks spreading across the wall, the presence of bubbles underneath the paint or wallpaper inside, falling plaster, and even a slight tilt.
#5. They clash with your decor
Quite frankly, it makes no sense to remodel your interior to create a breathtaking decor if you keep your old window frames. Old frames tend to clash with stylish interiors, creating a mismatched result. When you’ve already chosen to invest in a unique decor scene, it can be frustrating to fail to achieve the desired effect because of your windows. Modern frames in aluminum, uPVC, or treated wood can bring your decor together beautifully. You can also change the style, using tilt & turn windows or sliding windows to maximize space.
#6. They are not sound-proof
Old glass panes or thin frames tend to let external noises through. When you live near a heavy traffic area, your home could be exposed to constant loud sounds. Noise pollution is a real issue that can affect your mental health and impact your sleep and immune system. Modern windows can provide sound-proofing features that can help you keep your peace of mind.
#7. They let too much heat through
South-facing windows can turn your home into an oven in summer. While window blinds and shades can help reduce heat, you can also find low-emission coating windows, which actively prevent the heat from coming through. They can reduce heat transference up to 30% to 50%.
Can you say for sure that your windows are a reliable and protective feature in your home? If you suspect your windows are exposing your home to risks, whether break-ins or energy waste, then it’s time to book your appointment for replacement services.