Windows are important in the structure of any building, whether we’re talking about a place of residence or a business. However, they can also tend to take a beating. Between everyday use and exposure to the weather, they could get damaged and take on general wear and tear over time.
That being said, there are times when you need to replace your windows.
There are many surprising benefits to replacing your windows that you may not know about. Learning about these factors can make you feel like it’s worth the investment, and our expert technicians at Advantage Construction can help you take advantage of some of them.
Why Should You Replace Your Windows?
Are you on the fence about replacing your windows? These are six excellent reasons you should consider installing new windows as your next home improvement project.
Improve Home Security
While your windows might function just fine, they’re likely not very secure if they’re outdated. Additionally, intruders often use windows as their way of entrance into a home, and older window designs may not have secure locking mechanisms to prevent break-ins.
By upgrading your windows, you can invest in the safety and security of your home. Modern technology offers improved locks and even security technology, like sensors.
However, for windows that don’t open and close properly, replacing them can remove a crucial safety hazard. In an emergency, such as a fire, a window can serve as a quick escape. That is why it is important to have good working windows in place, as there won’t be any time to mess with a stuck, jammed window during a fire.
Better Lighting
One of the main purposes of a window is to allow natural light to shine into your home. Natural light is crucial for many reasons, including vitamin D levels and helping prevent seasonal depression, so they are always a welcomed feature in homes.
Older windows can also become dingy, scratched, and cracked—all of which can prevent light from shining through. You may also see fog build up from moisture between the glass.
On the other hand, newer windows feature clean and clear glass that allows natural light to penetrate through it unobstructed. Modern windows often lack grids, letting more light in and making them look larger. Plus, many updated window designs protect against UV rays.
Improve Home Energy Efficiency
Perhaps one of the best and most practical benefits of getting new windows is the potential to lower your energy costs. Older windows can feature small leaks, which may seem unnoticeable, but even the smallest of cracks can make your HVAC system work harder than it has to.
Modern windows also have better seals and glass designs that can reduce drafts and help maintain temperatures. While replacing your windows can be a big investment, it could potentially give your home a higher energy efficiency rating in the long run.
Increase Curb Appeal
Sometimes it’s worth updating things in our homes simply because it makes them look nicer. Replacing your old windows can help you upgrade the look of your home, increasing its curb appeal.
In today’s window market, there are so many more options than there used to be. You can choose from a wide variety of materials, colors, and styles—many of which can completely change the look of your home inside and out.
Not only is curb appeal nice to have as a homeowner, but it’s an excellent selling point, and your neighbors might even appreciate seeing the upgrade as well.
Reduce Noise
Did you know that your windows can serve as noise-reduction tools? Some window designs feature double or triple panes along with other soundproofing technology.
New windows are perfect for houses on busy streets or in noisy neighborhoods, and can help minimize noise from the outside. Replacing your windows is a great investment if you live near tons of traffic, railroad tracks, or even a local party spot.
Increase Your Home’s Value
Of all the benefits we’ve already listed above, replacing your old windows can also increase your home’s value. Adding new windows to a house offers the same value as you would receive to someone interested in buying your house. New windows offer your home:
- Better lighting
- Increased curb appeal
- Soundproofing
- Better security
- Better energy
These factors are important to buyers looking to settle into a comfortable, safe home. If you know you might be selling your home down the line, it’s a good investment to consider.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Windows
Knowing when to replace your windows is another crucial piece of information. You want to make the most of something while it still works, but simple functionality might not be enough. You should consider upgrading your windows if the following applies to you.
Spotting Condensation
Most windows have at least two window panes. If you spot condensation between the panes, it’s time for new windows.
Condensation is a sure sign that the seals on your windows have worn down and are no longer effective. If the seals have failed, you’re likely using more energy than is necessary.
Increased Energy Bills
Feeling a draft or temperature changes in a room could indicate that you might need new windows. Although, one sure sign you need to replace your windows that will never fail is a noticeable increase in your energy bills.
Most homeowners typically know the approximate cost of their monthly air conditioning or heat by calculating their energy usage. If you notice a gradual increase in that number, it may be because your windows are getting older and their seals aren’t holding up like they used to, so your systems must work more to keep up.
Signs of Physical Damage
One of the most obvious signs that you need to replace your windows is any kind of physical damage. This can be cracked glass, bent frames, broken locks, or any other damage.
Damaged windows can quickly become unusable and unsafe. They can cause your energy bill to skyrocket, make your house a target for break-ins, and can also make it difficult to get fresh air or natural light into your home.
You’re Updating Other Exterior Details
If you’re giving the exterior of your home a facelift, you may as well include the windows. A nice paint job and new shingles can boost your home’s curb appeal, but it can only go so far with outdated, dirty, and damaged windows.
If you’re already doing some exterior construction on your house, you should consider adding windows to your to do list.
Upgrade Your Windows Today
Is it time for your home to be out with the old and in with the new? Deciding to purchase new windows can be intimidating due to the cost, but the benefits far outweigh these concerns. Replacing your window can increase a home’s value, curb appeal, energy efficiency, and more.
If you’ve been considering replacing your windows, stop waiting and start taking action. Contact Advantage Construction today – we’d love to talk to you about your project and home goals.
