Whether you realize it or not, your windows play a big part in your Galveston, Texas home’s energy performance and comfort levels. While it may not seem like a large issue, damaged or faulty windows can lead to a broad range of potential issues if they aren’t fixed. Before getting into that, how do you even know whether your windows need to be replaced?
Your windows don’t suddenly become less energy-efficient overnight. It happens slowly over months or years. So, how do you know when they’re not as energy-efficient and need to be replaced?
We have ten signs to look out for if you suspect your windows are past their prime. If one or more of these sound familiar, it may be time to look into replacement windows or get your windows looked at by a professional.
It may be an understatement to say that Galveston can get pretty hot, especially in the summer. This heat may have you reaching for your air conditioning unit, which in turn increases your monthly energy bills. This means that spending as little as possible is even more important since that Texas heat will have you using your AC pretty frequently. Your Galveston home windows have a lifespan of approximately 15-20 years. Once they reach this age, the seals start to weaken or fail, which leaves you open to drafts and water seepage. It may also be harder to open your windows around this time as well.
In addition, single-pane windows were the standard 15+ years ago. These windows lack insulation and are not as energy efficient as modern double-pane windows.
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Request Free EstimateWatch the video below for the top 6 signs that your windows need to be replaced and keep reading for more info:
This is probably the most obvious sign you need to replace your windows. When a window is damaged, it’s more likely to break completely, which leaves your home open to more serious damage like water seepage, mold and mildew and pests. It also makes your home easier for intruders to break into. Getting a damaged window fixed as soon as possible will keep your family safe and help you avoid more expensive repairs in the future. This can also help you keep your Galveston home looking great and in pristine condition.
Drafts are a problem for a few reasons. First, it means that the air you’re paying to cool is seeping out and the hot, humid air outside is making its way in. A room with drafty windows will feel less comfortable than the rest of your home, and may even feel more humid.
Second, because the outside air is seeping in, your HVAC system has to work harder to keep your home at the temperature you set. This won’t be helpful once you’re using the heater during the winter or cooling your Galveston home in the summer. Checking for drafts in your windows can help the home maintain one set temperature with greater ease.
To check for drafts, close your window, lock it, and hold your hand at the bottom or top of your window sash where it meets the frame. If you feel air coming in, you have a draft.
A lot of things can cause your electric bills to skyrocket, but if you’ve noticed that your electric bills have slowly crept up your windows might be to blame. Like we mentioned, drafts let the temperature-controlled air inside your house escape, which forces your HVAC system to work harder to try to keep your home at the temperature you’ve set. This drives your electric bills up and the increased workload can shorten the life of your HVAC unit. Replacing old windows with new, energy-efficient ones helps lower your monthly bills and makes sure your air conditioner doesn’t need to work harder than necessary. Not only will it help you save money on your electric bill, but it can also potentially help you to increase the curb appeal of your home.
Condensation on the outside may not be a problem for windows depending on a few factors, but if you see it inside your window, it usually means your windows are leaking air and/or your home is humid. This is another clear sign you should get your windows looked at by a professional.
Additionally, if you notice condensation between the panes of your double- or triple-pane windows, it’s a sign that the air-tight seal has failed and the insulating gas has escaped. Whether it’s inside or between the panes, spotting condensation anywhere except the outside of your window is a definite sign they should be replaced. If you’re a Window World of Galveston customer who is experiencing this, your windows are covered by our lifetime warranty. Just submit a warranty claim and we’ll take care of you!
If the furniture, carpet, rugs, or decor that is exposed to the sunlight coming through your windows has faded, your windows probably aren’t don’t have the UV protection offered by modern windows with low-emissivity (low-E) glass. Low-E glass is treated with a microscopic film that keeps UV rays and solar heat from passing through. This prevents your furniture, carpet, and curtains from fading, and helps to keep your home cooler. Making sure that your Galveston home is fitted with modern windows can help you keep your home vibrant without risking fading to your furniture.
It’s no doubt that sometimes it can get loud in Galveston, Texas. If you live near a busy intersection or train tracks, or just have neighbors that like to get loud, you might think there’s nothing you can do about the noise. But there is! Modern double-pane or triple-pane windows provide noticeable sound dampening thanks to the additional insulation. Finding the right windows for your home can help you reduce that noise and let you rest a little better.
Every window can have a hard time opening and closing throughout its lifespan. However, if you have cleaned and attempted to fix this multiple times throughout the years and the windows only get worse, it may be time to look for replacement windows. A stuck window is frustrating and could lead to it remaining stuck in an open position, exposing your home to the elements.
Notice you’ve been sniffling or have watery eyes more than usual? Depending on the time of year, allergens may be making their way into your home through ineffectively-sealed windows. Even the best of window seals degrade over time, but if it’s been more than 15 years since your windows were installed, it’s time to replace so you can put those tissues away.
Curb appeal can be an important part of a home for some. Whether you want to spruce up your home to modernize the look or to flip your home, replacing your windows can help with potentially increasing your curb appeal. Our windows are highly customizable, with plenty of options for colors and grid patterns to make your home unique!
No matter how much you may love your home, you never know what the future holds. Should you sell your home in the future, you’ll want to get the most value out of your property. With replacement vinyl windows installed, you stand to add an additional $13,766, on average, to your home’s total value per Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs Value report.
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to trade your old windows in for new, energy-efficient ones! At Window World of Galveston, we have a wide variety of window styles to fit every home style and budget. Contact us today to learn more and schedule your free consultation!