Determining when to replace windows is a big decision, and not just because of the replacement cost involved. Windows also represent a major lifestyle investment, affecting the amount of light that enters your home and the overall look and feel of your house.
They also have a direct effect on the cost of running your home. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, heating and cooling account for 51% of the average home’s energy usage, and replacing old windows can help you manage that cost.
Figuring out all the details like the initial installation investment, the potential heating and cooling savings, what type of replacement windows to buy or when to buy them can make replacing your home windows a daunting task. But it doesn’t have to be difficult.
Questions to help determine when to replace windows in your house
- Are your heating and cooling bills higher for no discernable reason?
- Do you feel a draft from your windows?
- Does condensation or frost build up on the inside of your windows?
- Have the window frames begun to sag or deteriorate?
“Yes” answers to any of these questions are a good indication that it could be time to replace your house windows.
Things to consider when inspecting your windows
- If the glass is hot to the touch in the summer or cold to the touch in winter, that’s another sign your windows are inefficient and should be replaced.
- Windows that don’t open or close properly are also good candidates for replacement, as are windows where the sashes don’t seal tightly at the bottom.
- Another reason to replace windows is a little less practical but no less important: It’s OK to decide on replacing your windows because they’re old, out of date, and mismatched with your home’s exterior and interior design. A home makeover is an excellent time to buy new windows and freshen your home’s curb appeal.
When is the best time to replace windows
If all indications suggest it’s time to replace your home windows, the next question is obvious: what time of year is a good time to buy new windows? While windows can be replaced any time of the year, starting your project in the winter has its benefits:
- Fewer scheduling difficulties—Cold weather usually means less work for home renovators, and less work can put your project at the front of the line, even when it involves custom replacement windows.
- Lower heating bills—With most of winter still ahead of you, replacing your windows in the winter means you can cut your heating costs immediately, especially if you purchase ENERGY STAR® certified windows. Waiting for warmer weather means you’ll be paying unnecessarily high heating bills for months.
An experienced window installer will keep the cold air from reaching other areas of your home as much as possible, and will use the appropriate caulk for the weather conditions. So let your windows be your guide when it comes to deciding when to replace your window. If they’re drafty, inefficient or just plain wrong for your home, any time can be the right time for replacing home windows.
Last Updated: March 3, 2022
By Ashley Applin
Marketing Manager–Doors & Windows
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