Keeping your home’s windows in good condition is important to help prevent air from leaking in and out of the house. If your old windows are single-paned and outdated, replacing them with newer, more efficient windows can help reduce your energy costs by preventing the loss of heat during the winter, and reducing the amount of cool air that escapes during the summer. If you’re looking to save money and make your home more comfortable, here are 7 reasons why it’s time to consider window replacement.
Whether you want to cut down on energy bills or simply enhance your home’s beauty, new windows can do both. The best new windows use a variety of energy-efficient features that help reduce the transfer of thermal energy in and out of your home, and some offer options like argon gas or low-emissivity glass to further improve energy efficiency. This can lead to lower heating and cooling bills, as well as a more comfortable living space year-round.
Inefficient windows can increase your utility bills dramatically, especially if you have single-paned windows or wood frames with significant rot. You can fix some of these problems with simple DIY solutions such as installing storm doors, but a more effective approach is to replace inefficient old windows with new energy-efficient ones.
Old wood window frames can become inefficient for a number of reasons, and if they’re rotting you should consider replacing them with new windows that are better insulated. It’s easy to tell if the frames are inefficient as there’ll be a noticeable draught around them and this is a sign that heat is escaping. Moisture and condensation around the frames are also signs that the window isn’t insulating properly and cold air could be entering your home.
Replacing inefficient old windows is an effective way to add value to your home, particularly if you’re thinking of selling it at some point in the future. Potential buyers will be interested in a property that is well-maintained and has a comfortable temperature throughout the year, as well as a low electricity bill. Adding new windows will also give your home an instant upgrade and improve its curb appeal, which is always a good thing!
When you’re restoring an older window it’s important to remove the glass and sashes first. This makes it easier to work on the frame without the risk of breaking the window. This is especially important if the frame has a lot of rot, as you don’t want to damage it and risk further water damage.
It’s also worth removing the putty, which can be tricky as it tends to get very brittle and can sometimes crumble in your hands if it’s too dry. If the putty is too hard to budge, you’ll need to sand it down with a hand sander or power tool until it becomes softer and easier to remove. Be careful not to sand too much off as this can cause the timber to shrink slightly and create gaps that could allow cold air in and warm air out.