1. They are really old

Was your house built in the early 2000s or even earlier? It’s a safe bet that its original windows show signs of aging that reduce their efficiency and cause inconveniences. Depending on their original quality, the average lifespan of a window is between 15 and 30 years. Beyond that, you have to think about changing them!

2. Your electricity bills are going up

It makes sense that if your windows are underperforming, your energy consumption will be higher than it should be, and therefore your bill as well. Replacing old windows with ENERGY STAR® certified products will result in substantial savings on your energy costs.

3. Your windows are fogged up between the glasses

This is an indication that the sealing of your windows is no longer what it used to be. Eventually, the sealant that holds the glasses in place may give way, allowing moisture and air to enter between the two glasses, causing condensation. In addition to being aesthetically unpleasant and obstructing your visibility, your energy consumption may increase.

Be careful, the condensation that ends up on the glass inside the house can be caused by the humidity level in your home and is not a sign that you need to replace it. Also, conversely, fogging on the exterior glass of the house is also not a cause for replacement.

4. You get drafts even with the windows closed

Are your curtains flying despite the closed windows? Drafts indicate that some windows are not completely sealed. Or you feel a freshness when it is windy on the side of this window? The weatherstripping and/or the system providing airtightness surely presents problems.

5. You have trouble opening or closing them

After a certain number of years, window frames and their opening systems can wear out. A stubborn window is not only annoying, but it can also be dangerous in the event of a fire or other emergency and should be replaced quickly.

6. There is mold

Your windows may have lost their ability to keep water out. And where there is water, you will often find mold, which can be a real health problem, especially for allergy sufferers. Sometimes you can see mold, but it can grow inside your walls and the only sign may be a musty smell. Often, the problem at this time requires expertise at the installation level to ensure that the problem is fixed at its origin.

7. You hear outside noises

The older your windows are, the less effective their sound insulation is. It’s normal to hear a few thuds through your closed windows, like the vague noise of a lawnmower. But when you clearly hear sounds of car horns or the voices of your neighbors two houses away, it’s not and it’s a clear sign to replace them!

8. They have a rather outdated style

Do you love your home and want to stay there for a long time? However, you don’t like the exterior appearance anymore? It may be time to swap them for an up-to-date model!

Perhaps you are planning a major renovation of the facade of your home soon and the windows will no longer suit its new style. Take action. Like other materials, windows have evolved greatly over time.