SUREGUARD estimators are often asked, "How do we know if it's time to replace our windows?" While there is never a right or wrong answer to this question, we have developed a ten-point inspection that helps homeowners identify potential problems:
1. AGE OF EXISTING WINDOWS
What is the age of your home? Do you still have the original windows that were installed when your home was built? Like everything else in your home, windows will wear out over time. Good wood or vinyl windows are designed to last up to fifty years with proper care and maintenance; metal frame windows last about half as long. If your home is over twenty-five years old and still has the original windows, it may be time to consider replacements.
2. DRAFTS
Air movement through poorly sealed or weatherproofed windows is a major source of energy loss. Do the curtains or drapes around your windows move when the wind blows? Inspect the weather-stripping in your windows. If it is worn or missing in spots, your home will feel too hot or too cold, and you are probably paying more than you should on your energy bills.
3. FRAMES THAT FEEL HOT OR COLD
Put your hand on the frame of your window. Does it feel hot in the summer or cold in the winter? If so, you are losing energy through conduction. The rates of thermal conductivity through aluminum or steel frame windows are significantly than through wood or vinyl frame windows, up to 1000 times higher! If your home has metal frame windows, replacing them with wood or vinyl frames will help you cut your energy costs.
4. CONDENSATION
Does condensation appear on your window frames in the morning? Condensation is the visible sign of poor energy performance. Cool air holds less moisture than warm air from inside your home when it comes in contact with cold metal frames. The air will shed moisture as it cools, forming condensation on the window frames and glass. Excessive levels of condensation can lead to moisture problems in the inside wall surfaces and sill. If you observe signs of moisture damage, you should consider replacing your windows as soon as possible.
5. MILDEW
Mildew or mold build up inside window tracks or on wall or sill surfaces around windows can result in serious health problems for some people. If you observe signs of mold or mildew around your windows, consider replacement windows.
6. LEAKING
Water that leaks through the frame of existing windows or doors can run into the cavity between the inside and outside wall surfaces. Poor ventilation in this area will usually prevent the water from evaporating and will lead to dry rot. If you think your windows or doors are leaking water into your home, contact an expert as soon as possible to make an inspection. The sooner leaking problems are corrected the less likely you will experience more serious problems later on.
7. OPERATION
Do your windows open and close easily? Do all of your existing locks work properly? Windows that do not lock properly can leave you and your family vulnerable. Windows that do not open in bedrooms may create safety hazards in the event of a fire. Safety features aside, windows that do not operate the way they should are a constant source of frustration.
8. APPEARANCE
Decorative and architectural styles change over time, and windows are no exception. Silver frame windows can look as dated in your home pull-down shades. Windows with cracked frames will diminish the value of your home. New windows can create a wonderful opportunity to give your home a facelift and increase its value.
9. EGRESS
Fire safety codes require an operable window in every bedroom that will open large enough to allow an occupant to escape in the event of a fire. If the windows in your bedrooms do not open or are too small, you may be creating a safety hazard. Replacing your windows provides an opportunity to make sure all your windows comply with current building and safety codes.
10. SAFETY GLASS
Federal safety codes now require tempered safety glass in sliding glass doors, in windows next to doors, and in windows that are inside a tub or shower area. Safety glass in these windows will break differently than will regular window glass and will reduce the risk of serious injury. If your windows or sliding glass doors do not have safety glass where required, you should consider replacing them immediately
