8 Signs You Need To Replace Your Windows

How do you know when it’s time to replace your windows?

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Look at your windows. They may look nice, maybe you painted the frames this summer and there is nothing (apparently) wrong with them. But, be very careful as windows are not only a matter of appearance. Even though your windows are not rotten and their components still appear to be working perfectly, you should be aware of some warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored.  Poor quality windows could risk your home’s safeness, your health and, last but not least, could make your wallet very unhappy. Think about the damage that humidity can cause, for example.

So, with this in mind I’ve put together 8 warning signs that may mean your windows need replacing.

1. Draughts in your home

It’s January, a common cold Monday. You are enjoying your first coffee of the morning while looking outside at the awakening city. A few people are already running to work or walking their dogs and the only thing you can think about is the freezing draught that comes from the outside. This is a sign of insulation fail.

2.Faded colours of carpet, curtains and furniture

The first thing you would usually think after noticing a discoloured carpet or a “shade of pale” on your couch, is that you did something wrong when cleaning it. What else could be the culprit? The new detergent you bought because it smelled so good? Well, check out if that faded spot is just under the window. The culprit could be a single pane glass because it can’t keep out the UV rays that fade colours. If you love to keep indoor plants then keep this in mind: UV rays can fade their leaves too. This does not mean that you don’t have a green thumb!

3. Glasses are too hot/cold

Try to touch the windows exposed to direct sunlight. They should not be too hot. If you notice frost on them during the Winter, this is another hint you should replace the glass.

4. Stains, leaks or streaks on the walls around the windows

You spent all last summer renovating your home and painting the walls with your favourite colour, taking advantage of the good temperature and keeping your windows open to let the paint dry. Probably you painted over old stains of mould without knowing they will appear again and again until you give up. That kind of stain is an effect and not a cause. The origin of the issue is bad insulation and you should always check out the conditions of the wall around your windows. Leaks or streaks on your walls or rotten wood usually means that the seal around the window is broken.

5. Condensation

Even though you have installed double glazed windows, there is the possibility of humidity infiltration because of the temperature gap between the outside and inside of your home. In double or triple glazed windows, fog and condensation could mean seal failure, something that happens after many years, or because of a poor quality job. This is  another important sign that you may need to replace the glass.

6. Your Energy Bill is Expensive

Checking out your energy bill you might find that heating and cooling costs are too high. Maybe you’re losing energy through your windows, especially if your home is old and is not well insulated. Replacing the windows could be the first step to improving the energy efficiency of your home.

7. Noise

Have you ever heard about noise pollution? If not, now you know this it’s something that exists and it can lead to severe stress for you, your family and your beloved pets!

Noise pollution or noise disturbance is the disturbing or excessive noise that may harm the activity or balance of human or animal life. The source of most outdoor noise is mainly caused by machines and transportation systems, motor vehicles, aircraft, and trains. Outdoor noise is summarised by the word environmental noise. (Wikipedia)

We cannot do much when we are outside, but we can keep it out of our homes. Home is the place where we should feel comfortable and protected. You should get rid of the earplugs and replace your windows because it’s an investment in your health and your sanity.

8. Replacement components are hard to find

When your windows are very old it could be hard to find replacement parts and components and you might want to consider a complete makeover. Did you know we manufacture a range of heritage and bespoke windows that look traditional but contain all the technology of a modern, well insulated window? See our heritage section here.

If you notice any of these warning signs and think your windows may need replacing, then feel free to drop me a line. I have a team of experts on hand to help with advice, and if you do need replacement windows we would love to be able to give you a quote.