Learning About Remodeling Contractors

If the neighbor's kid accidentally throws a baseball through your window glass or if you get a chill every time you sit down near a window on a cold day, you probably know that you need to call a window replacement service. However, not every sign that your windows are worn out is as obvious. Many homeowners overlook signs that their windows should really be replaced. Take a look at some subtle, but important signs that you could use new windows in your home.

Broken Window Locks

Unfortunately, it can be pretty easy to ignore a broken window lock. As long as your window still opens and closes normally, it's easy for a homeowner to believe that a lock isn't really all that important. What you may not know is that locking your window creates a seal that prevents air leaks. Without the lock, it's easier for outdoor air to find its way into your home. A broken lock can increase your energy bills by causing your air conditioner or heater to cool or heat the outdoor air coming into your home.

What's more, an unlocked window is a real security risk. In about 30% of burglary cases, the burglar comes in through an unlocked window or door. Windows are much more likely to be left unlocked than doors, so if a burglar is casing your place, they're almost certainly going to test out the windows. You can opt to simply repair the window locks, but a broken lock can often be a sign that your windows are older and becoming fragile. If that's the case, you're better off replacing them with newer, stronger windows.

Condensation Inside Your Window

If you have double-paned windows, one thing you may notice is condensation between the two panes. This can be frustrating when you're trying to clean your windows, because you can clean the glass inside and outside and still not be able to see through the window clearly. However, the problem is bigger than just an obscured view.

Double-paned windows are made by sealing two panes of glass together with an insulting gas, like argon or krypton, between them. If you're seeing condensation inside the window, that means that the seal has been breached and your insulation is gone. There's no way to put that back or reseal the glass. You may be able to remove the condensation – there are services that claim to restore insulated windows by drilling small holes in the outer pane of glass, removing the condensation, and installing vent plugs in the holes to prevent more condensation from forming in the future. However, this only solves the cosmetic problem and doesn't actually restore your window's insulation. If you want your windows to retain their energy efficiency, you will have to replace them.

You're Putting Your House on The Market

Selling your home may not seem like a good reason to replace your windows, but it really can be. Window replacement is near the top of the list when it comes to ROI (return on investment) for home improvement projects. Spending $10,000 on new vinyl windows, for example, can raise your home's asking price by $8,500. That's an 85% ROI.

Of course, this only applies if your windows are approaching replacement age – windows installed a few years ago shouldn't need to be replaced for your home to sell. Vinyl windows can last for up to 15 years, and aluminum windows can last for 15 to 20 years. Wood windows can last as long as 30 years if they're well maintained. If your windows are nearing the upper end of their lifespan and you want to sell your home soon, replacing them is a smart move.

If you're having problems with your windows, a window replacement expert in your area can help. Contact a local window replacement service, such as Jerry Newman Roofing & Remodeling, Inc., to find out if new windows are the right choice for your home.