How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Windows?

You walk past a window in your kitchen and feel a chilly draft. It’s not new—you’ve been feeling that same draft for years! It’s just part of your old home. The draft in the dining room, though? That’s new, and it’s got you thinking about window replacement. The problem is, you’re just not sure if you should replace a couple of windows or if it’s time to upgrade everything.

This is a common struggle for many Denver, CO homeowners—especially headed into the winter season. It doesn’t take long for drafty windows to create frigid cool spots throughout your home! But if only two or three of your windows are problematic, it’s hard to tell if you should opt for a glass replacement on just these few or make the investment in whole-home window replacement. Our experts weigh in below to help make the decision easier.

How long do windows usually last?

The first question to ask yourself is how old your windows are. In most homes, the windows are all roughly the same age, outside of one or two that may have been replaced in the past due to damage. If the age of your windows is pushing 15 to 20 years, you’re almost certainly going to want to do a whole-home replacement. If they’re on the right side of a decade, maybe just tackle the problem windows and plan to replace the rest in a few years.

What type of windows do you have?

The type of windows you have can play a role in how often you need to replace them, and to what extent. Wood windows will generally last as long as your home if taken care of, but you’ll likely need glass replacement every 15 to 20 years. Vinyl windows typically degrade in time and need a full window replacement every 15 to 20 years.

The style can play a role as well. Casement windows can last for decades without requiring much attention, while double-hung windows that are constantly opened and closed may degrade in quality after just a decade. Often, parts servicing is enough to keep these windows in good condition.

Special considerations

There are a few variables that make it more difficult to repair windows and, instead, might require that you replace them. For example, if you have cracked low-e glass, you’ll need a special kind of glass replacement, and often it’s more cost-efficient to get a new window. Similarly, if you’re like many Denver, CO homeowners and have a special antireflective coating on your windows, you’ll need to get that replaced along with a damaged pane.

Signs you need new windows

As is the case for most aspects of a home, things rarely break at a convenient time. Sure, you might expect your windows to last for 15 years, but a string of brutal Denver, CO winters might leave them worse for the wear after 10. The key to staying on top of window replacement is to look for the signs of faulty or diminished windows:

• Drafts and free airflow through or around the panes
• Fogged windows when it’s cold outside
• High energy bills or a dramatic increase in utility costs
• Cracks or blemishes on panes
• Difficulty opening and closing windows

Whether you replace one or two windows or retrofit your entire home depends entirely on your situation. Often, it’s best to consult with a professional who can give you the lay of the land before making a decision.

Categorised in: Window Replacement