When Should I Replace My Windows?

Windows aren’t just there to let light into your home. On average, windows in any given property cover approximately 25% of your total wall space. Windows also have a huge impact on the building’s energy conservation, noise pollution as well as overall look and feel of the property.

Whether you’ve just moved into a property or have been there a while, you might be wondering if it’s time to have your windows replaced. Here are our top points to look out for to help you decide whether that’s the case for your property.

Windows that are poorly fitted or have started to disintegrate over time may no longer be providing adequate protection against the elements. If that’s the case then you may notice a cold draught coming from the window itself where there is a gap either in the glass or the frame. If your home is north facing, therefore, doesn’t benefit from much natural sunlight, this draught can make the room feel especially cold.

Draughty windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss in your home. If you have ever seen thermal imaging that shows lots of red over the windows and doors, that’s all the heat escaping through them. Not only is this bad for the environment because more fuel is needed to keep your home warm, but it will cost you more in energy bills to do so.

Do you notice lots of condensation on the inside of your windows, particularly when it’s cold outside? There are lots of causes of condensation, one of which is windows that do not allow for proper ventilation. For example, windows that do not open in areas such as the bathroom or kitchen whereby there is a lot of steam generated that cannot escape.

If you notice your windows look steamed up but the moisture is between the two panes of glass (and so cannot be accessed) your window seals likely have a fault. In this case, you can choose to have the glass replaced, or you can take the opportunity to replace the window entirely. In either case, if your windows have a lot of condensation, especially if the problem has caused mould or dampness to appear then you should look at getting this fixed promptly.

Depending on where you live, noise is going to mean different things to different people. For those who live along a busy road or even a flight path, if your windows aren’t at least reducing that noise to a comfortable degree then it’s time to think about upgrading them. That’s because your current windows are not providing an effective barrier against the noise, letting most of it through which can disturb sleep and your overall enjoyment of the property.

Replacing single or old double glazing will make a huge difference, and these days you can opt for triple glazing or even secondary glazing. Using more panes or thicker panes of glass as well as better frames will greatly reduce the amount of noise that is able to get through. If you are also thinking of selling your property, a quieter home will be far more attractive to buyers who might otherwise be put off by the noise. So, replacing your windows won’t just add comfort but could add value to your home too.

Your current windows may be damaged either in terms of the glass itself or the surrounding frame which keeps that glass in place. If your windows are single glazed it doesn’t take much to damage them, which not only is a hassle but could create a security risk too. Likewise, if the frame is damaged or in the case of wooden windows it has started to rot, then this could lead to a whole host of other problems unless you get it fixed.

Replacing your windows will remove both of these issues entirely but there are also ways to repair damaged windows too. The great thing about new windows is you can go back to the drawing board, by discussing what isn’t working with your window provider so that they can come up with the best solution to suit you. Generally, new windows will use the latest technology and will have a generous guarantee, so you can rest easy you will not see the same problems reoccur after you’ve had them replaced.

While windows have many practical functions they are also a highly visible part of your property. Visuals matter whether you are planning on staying in your home or if wish to sell it. Unfortunately, certain styles of windows don’t always complement the original property features. It could also be that the windows simply look old-fashioned. If you’re in a conservation area, then there may also be restrictions that prevent certain styles of windows (such as uPVC) from being fitted in the first place.

Whatever the reason behind you disliking the appearance of your windows is unless you replace your windows then the problem won’t go away. For example, our aluminium windows create a stunning focal point in a room. If your current windows don’t allow for much natural light or if they don’t make the most of the stunning views, then switching the window style can have a dramatic impact. Ultimately, you have to be happy with the style of windows that are on your property because as we mentioned at the start, they make up almost a quarter of your entire wall space.

On average, uPVC doubled glazing last around 20 years depending on the quality and fitting. Aluminium windows last around 30 years and can be maintained by adding an architectural powder coating that is tougher than traditional paint. As a result, aluminium windows will last longer than wood or uPVC windows.

Due to the inclement British weather, you should look to have your windows replaced during the warmer months. Though if you wish to purchase windows during the winter you are likely to find a better deal because it is low season.

Would you like to find out more about replacing your windows? If you are considering installing any new windows to your home or business then you’re in the right place.

Here at Aluminium Bending Specialists, we’re experts in all things windows so we’d be more than happy to advise you. After all, windows of any kind are an investment purchase. Not only do your windows need to look right they also need to offer superior performance too.

Need more help? To find out more about triple glazed windows, give our friendly team a call on 01623 721 172.