When to Replace Windows: A Homeowner's Guide to Knowing the Signs

When to Replace Windows: A Homeowner’s Guide to Knowing the Signs

Exterior Services / By

You’ve owned your home for many years. Your windows are original, or at least you’ve had them for as long as you’ve owned your home. You’ve been thinking about replacing your windows. Maybe they’re starting to look old and dated. Perhaps they’re cold and drafty. Or the seals broke, and they’re foggy.


You’re at a loss. You’re not sure when is the best time to change out windows. It isn’t like there’s a hard and fast rule indicating that windows must be replaced by a certain date. So what do you do next? Should you wait a while longer? Or do you need to take action soon to avoid more severe consequences? In this article we’ll give you some signs for which to look so that you can make an informed decision.

Identifying When To Replace Windows

Modern window technology, especially double and triple-pane options, does a much better job blocking out exterior noise, such as traffic, music, and sirens. Older windows are far less soundproof. If outside noises are louder than you’d like them to be, consider window replacement.

Many homeowners don’t understand the urgency of replacing a window with a “small” crack or dimpling. Compromised windows no longer perform efficiently and can lead to much more severe problems. If your windows have cracks or are otherwise damaged, replace your windows.

When a window frame experiences chipping or rotting, its structural integrity has been compromised. Performance issues (including draftiness, fogginess, and condensation) will arise sooner or later. If window frames are in disrepair, they often allow moisture down into the exterior walls of the home, creating a host of other problems.

A window that jams or gets stuck easily will produce frustration. When a window is hard to open, rust, rot, or mold may impact its functionality. Typically, window replacement becomes a priority in this circumstance. Windows that don’t open can also pose a safety risk in case of a fire. If windows open easily, it is easier to escape. 

A cool draft in cold weather causes heating bills to increase rapidly. In some cases, the window needs additional caulking or new weatherstripping. Other times, the window’s lifespan has reached its endpoint.

If you observe fogginess inside the window, a seal has been broken. If the seal cannot be fixed, window replacement becomes necessary. A foggy window no longer allows sunlight to enter the home effectively.

Inefficient windows may be the culprit when a homeowner incurs an unexpected jump in heating and cooling consumption. Older windows lack energy-efficient properties, resulting in skyrocketing utility bills.

If moisture is able to seep through the window or condensation quickly builds up on the surface, a homeowner should replace the window as soon as possible. Water damage can cause mold and mildew.

Potential Detriments Of Delaying Window Replacement

Waiting to replace an old, inefficient window will never benefit the homeowner. Excess energy consumption. Moisture intrusion. Mold and mildew buildup. Outside noise. There is no logical reason for a homeowner to compromise their health and well-being (or sanity) by putting up with decrepit windows when installing new ones will resolve all of these issues.

Hiring A Window Replacement Specialist

Replacing windows is not the job of a novice. It definitely cannot fall into the hands of “just any” contractor. Many contractors lack the specialized knowledge and amount of experience to change out windows. Window replacement requires the utmost attention to detail to ensure a long life. As a homeowner, you cannot afford to “chance it” when replacing your windows.
At Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows, we know the intricacies of window replacement. We offer the highest quality windows and the best window warranties in the industry. Our expert craftsmanship ensures that your new windows are installed the right way the first time. If you own a home in the Twin Cities (MN), contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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