What Happens If You Don’t Replace Windows?
If your windows make a whistling noise on a windy day or you can feel frost forming inside the window, these are obvious signs that your windows need to be replaced. New windows are more energy efficient and will protect your home from outside temperatures.
But what happens if you don’t replace your windows? Read on to find out.
1. You’ll Spend More on Heating and Cooling
Your windows can make a significant difference in your home’s energy efficiency, so it’s important to maintain them correctly. If you notice that your windows are starting to lose their insulating properties, it’s a sign that they need to be replaced. This will prevent cold air from entering your home in the winter and warm air from escaping in the summer. It will also help reduce the amount of wear and tear on your heating and cooling systems, which can save you money in the long run.
Another clear indication that it’s time to replace your windows is when you start noticing drafts in your home. This is a result of old single-pane windows that let cold air in and warm air out. Replacing your windows with new ENERGY STAR® certified models will improve the insulation of your home and lower your energy costs.
It’s not just about saving money, though. Replacing your windows will also improve the look of your house. Old windows can be a real eyesore and make your house look dingy. New windows will give your home a modern and up-to-date look, which will increase its value and make it more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell it in the future.
A final thing to note is if your window frames are starting to crack or chip. This can lead to water and moisture seeping into your home, which can cause serious problems down the road. Moisture can rot the wooden frame and cause mold to form, which is hazardous to your family’s health. It can also stain your walls and damage flooring, which is expensive to repair. Energy-efficient window replacement Potomac, MD will replace your windows with durable and weather-resistant options will ensure that these issues are never an issue for you.
2. You’ll Be Vulnerable to Burglary
If you haven’t already made it a habit to close and lock your windows each time you leave the house, now is the time to start. A recent survey found that 23% of burglars enter through an open first-floor window. Burglars often target homes with easily jimmied windows because they’re quick and easy to break into.
In fact, the average thief is in and out of a home within ten minutes. Having a deadbolt and other security measures may help deter burglars, but if they can get into your home quickly and without too much effort, they’ll likely return.
Older windows also lack energy efficiency and can allow a significant amount of heat into your home, forcing your air conditioner to work harder. Newer double or triple-pane windows are more energy efficient and designed to prevent air from transferring in and out of your home, helping you save money on your heating and cooling costs.
You should also be aware that the location of your home is a major factor when it comes to burglaries. Homes in rural areas are at a higher risk because there are fewer people around to witness a break-in and call the police. You can reduce your risk by keeping your house well-lit, installing a security system and trimming overgrown shrubbery that could serve as cover for burglars.
If your window glass is cracked or chipped, it’s important to replace it as soon as possible. This is because the small cracks and chips allow moisture into your home, which can cause damage to walls, flooring, furniture and carpeting. This can create mold and rot that’s dangerous to your family’s health and can be costly to repair.
3. You’ll Damage Your Home’s Appraisal
If you’re considering selling your home in the future, your windows will play a big role in its appraisal. Old or outdated windows will detract from the overall beauty and style of your house, which can be a real turn-off for potential buyers. On the other hand, newer windows can add a lot of value to your property. So, if you’re not planning on selling anytime soon, it may be wise to replace your windows just to keep up with current trends.
While you might have gotten away with repairing your old window frames in the past, it’s important to recognize when they’re beyond repair and need to be replaced. If you see signs of deterioration, such as rot or mold, it’s best to replace your windows immediately. Otherwise, the problem will get worse over time and could cause structural damage to your home.
Another indicator that it’s time to replace your windows is if you notice condensation between the glass panes. This means that your window seals are failing, which can reduce energy efficiency and allow air leakage. Moreover, condensation can lead to foggy windows that are unsightly and difficult to clean.
Finally, if you hear excessive noise outside your windows, it’s probably a sign that your window insulation is wearing out. Newer replacement windows will help reduce outside noises and provide you with a more peaceful living environment. Plus, they will also offer better security since criminals can’t sneak into your home through uninsulated windows. Moreover, you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor living space without being bothered by dogs barking and car horns. A personal loan can help you pay for replacement windows and improve your home’s security.
4. You’ll Damage Your Family’s Health
The sound of a window breaking can give many people anxiety. Maybe it’s the fear of glass shattering and hurting someone or perhaps it’s the worry that a storm will blow the window to smithereens. Either way, if you have broken windows or the frames are in poor condition, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible.
First, you will need to make sure the area around your damaged window is safe by wearing protective eyewear and gloves. Then, you’ll need to assess the damage and determine whether or not it’s safe to repair the window. Depending on the situation, you may be able to cover it with plastic or fill in the gap with wood. These fixes aren’t aesthetically pleasing, but they will keep your family safe and your home dry until you can have a replacement installed.
You will also want to take photographs of the damage so you can submit an insurance claim if necessary. If you’re unsure about filing an insurance claim, consult with an agent to find out more.
In addition to preventing moisture intrusion, rotting and pest infestations, replacing old or broken windows will also improve your home’s energy efficiency. It’s often more cost-effective to invest in a replacement than to keep paying for costly repairs and replacements down the road.
5. You’ll Damage Your Home’s Appearance
A window replacement is an investment in the long-term aesthetic of your home. If you are constantly having to repaint your windows or are finding that they have been deteriorating over time, it’s time to get a new set of modern, energy-efficient windows that will boost your curb appeal and add to the value of your home.
You can tell it’s time to replace your windows if the frames are beginning to show signs of wear and tear. These may include chips, dents or water stains in or around the frame. If you notice these signs, it’s best to act quickly, as ignoring the problem will only worsen the situation.
In addition to the visual damage, windows that have become damaged can cause leaks and water damage to the inside of your home, which is a huge safety issue. It is also more expensive to fix these leaks and damages once they are allowed to spread throughout the entire house, so acting sooner rather than later is a much better option.
Another clear sign that you need to replace your windows is if they are difficult to open, close or lock as they should. This can be a sign that there is a problem with the window balance, a faulty roller system or simply dirt and dust build-up within the sash or frame.
Lastly, if you are planning to sell your home, it’s essential to replace your windows before you do so. Potential buyers will notice the damaged windows and it will have a negative impact on your home’s appraisal. Also, if you are doing a major renovation of your home, installing new windows will give the whole place a fresh new look that will increase its appeal.
If your windows make a whistling noise on a windy day or you can feel frost forming inside the window, these are obvious signs that your windows need to be replaced. New windows are more energy efficient and will protect your home from outside temperatures. But what happens if you don’t replace your windows? Read…