There are many reasons to complete any home improvement project, such as comfort, convenience, aesthetics, new technology, update the look and feel, but sometimes the reason is necessity. When a key component of your home has broken down, worn out, or is damaged beyond repair, replacement is your only option. All of these reasons hold true when you are looking to replace the windows and doors in your home.
For the purpose of this article we will be focusing on those necessary reasons that push you to replacing your windows and doors. Here are 5 signs that it is time to replace your windows and doors.
1. Damage
The most apparent sign that it is time to replace your windows or doors is physical damage. Cracked windows, rotten or warped frames, and broken mechanical pieces will all reduce the usefulness of the window or door, pose as an eye sore, and may even pose as a security risk as their compromised state can become an entry point for a potential burglar.
2. Increased Outdoor Noise
Well-functioning windows and doors will help reduce the amount of noise that enters your home from the outside as they are built with soundproofing in mind. However, if you begin to notice increased external noise entering your home such as passing vehicles, barking dogs or even people talking as they walk by it may be time to look into replacing your windows and doors, as replacement will help muffle most external noise.
3. Drafts
Your home should be airtight when all windows and doors are closed. If you feel hot or cold air entering your home, this is probably due to cracks in or around the frames of your windows and doors or due to a poor seal. Either way, the issue should be addressed. If you do not feel the draft, but do notice cool or warm spots around your windows or doors, you can test for drafts by holding a candle near your doors or windows. If the flame begins to move back and forth, this is proof that a draft is entering from around that window or door.
4. Difficult Operation
Opening, closing, and locking your doors and windows should be a fairly easy process. If you are finding it difficult to complete any of these tasks, it could be due to warping, shifting, or damaged frames. In some of these cases, the window or door can be repaired, but if your attempts do not fix the issue, or you notice several windows with the same problem, chances are it is time to look into replacements.
5. Increased Energy Bills
Faulty windows and doors can cause your heating and or cooling systems to work overtime to maintain your desired indoor temperature. If you have noted a steady increase in your energy bills and have not changed your regular routine, your windows and doors may be responsible.
There are many reasons and benefits of completing a home improvement project such as replacing your windows and doors. Sometimes these reasons are chosen by a homeowner and at other times they are literally thrown upon them. Taking the time to inspect your windows and doors regularly will help you catch any potential issues before they become urgent issues.