Is it Time to Replace Your Windows?
When is the right time to replace your home’s windows? Although the answer to this question may seem to be easy, it’s often quite difficult. If your house is older than 15 years, you should check whether your windows still operate correctly. To help you determine if the time to upgrade your windows is right now, we’ve asked experts from the company specialized in windows replacement in Taylor, Michigan. Here’s what we have found out!
Noise – If your house is located in an urban neighborhood, near a busy street or an airport, it may be especially noisy in your home. You’d be surprised how new, well-chosen windows can reduce the exterior noise. So, if you want more peace and quiet in your cozy home, replace windows with a laminated or dual-pane glass to significantly reduce the noise transmission.
Energy Efficiency – Single-pane glass windows aren’t really energy efficient and that might be the reason to replace them. However, if that’s the only reason you find for replacing your “old” windows, think again. You’ll save on energy bills, of course, but it won’t recoup all that money spent on new windows and installation.
UV Rays – Do your furniture, carpets and artwork fade? UV rays that enter through windows can cause fading of materials, especially organic fabrics. Not only does it mean that you should replace your windows, but you’ll also need to look for special glass that blocks most UV rays.
Air & Water – Whether it’s cold or warm outdoors, the temperature in your home should always be pleasant. If the weather conditions outside your home appear on the inside, too, it’s a good idea to consider replacing your windows. Worn-out, old windows can leak air and allow water to come into your home. A colder/warmer air means higher energy bills during peak cooling and heating months, while the leading cause of mildew and mold in houses is, logically, the water. The latter can imply more issues, of course.
Value & Style – Your house/apartment is a very important part of your life and probably the biggest investment. If you replace old drab or mismatched windows, you can significantly improve both the value and the look of your home. Nevertheless, windows are an important architectural detail, too. Windows replacement, especially of those with leaded or stained glass or decorative wood grilles can, on the contrary, can lower the value of the house. The new windows have to fit your home’s style and not to detract from it. In case your historic house has its original windows, it’s better not to replace them.
Maintenance – Over the years, there has been a great improvement in window technology, especially when it comes to maintenance. Due to some advancements, it’s become a lot easier and more convenient to clean windows. For instance, you had to wash double-hung windows from the outside in the past and nowadays, by tilting the sash inward, you are able to clean the exterior glass from inside. If you hate those seasonal touch-ups required by unclad windows and you would like to eliminate that task forever, replace your current windows with vinyl-clad or aluminum clad ones. Low-maintenance windows are always a good idea!
Once you’ve decided to replace your windows, make sure you choose a trusted windows contractor in your area that will offer you the best value for money.