The windows in your home can tell you a lot about how well it’s equipped to handle energy. If you’re experiencing unexpected heating or cooling costs, but haven’t updated your windows in several years (if ever), then it may be time to think about replacement windows.
What are the benefits of replacing failing windows?
Failing windows can lead to a whole host of problems – from leaking and condensation to noise and security issues.
Replacing a window is probably one of the best things you can do to improve the comfort and look of your home. Your old windows may not be providing you with the benefits you need from your home, such as energy efficiency, safety, or security. Here are the key benefits you enjoy when you replace your failing windows:
- Improves the look of your property and increase its value
By replacing existing windows, you can boost the value of your property. Replacing old, inefficient windows with new UPVC or PVC-U windows can also help your home look as good as it works.
Adding replacement windows is the easiest way to give your house a facelift. Think of it as an investment that will increase the value of your home.
- Increases the amount of natural light getting into your home.
Window replacement is an economical and efficient way to increase the amount of natural light getting into your home. If your property has older, single-pane windows, you could be losing money every year on heating and cooling costs. Sunlight is free – and replacing old, leaky windows can return it to your home.
- Helps keep your family comfortable
Energy-efficient uPVC windows can help keep any home warm, cool and moisture-tight all year round – with no worries about draughts or condensation, as it won’t rust or rot like old fashioned timber frames. But if you prefer your wood windows, no problem. Wood windows are popular in many homes because they add character to any property and attract an instant visual lift upon entering a room.
- Lowering energy bills
Many people are not aware that insulation is a simple, low-cost method of reducing heating and cooling costs, and the best way to get improved insulation is by investing in new or replacement windows. There are several reasons why windows are a large part of the problem with energy bills. First, single-pane windows take up more heat than double-pane windows. Second, the air gap created by a window frame and the uninsulated frame around single-pane windows can add to heating bills!
- Reduces outdoor noise
The only way to permanently reduce noise and stop the build-up of energy loss in winter is with a replacement set of double glazing windows.
- Improves home security
The surest way to protect your family and property is to invest in well-built and installed windows. Even small cracks and gaps in window frames can provide an easy entryway for burglars.
Families should be aware of how savvy replacement window installation can safeguard home security.
What are the 6 warning signs that you need replacement windows?
- High energy bills – rising heating & cooling costs
Spending money on an energy-efficient window can reduce the financial burden of high energy bills without compromising the security and aesthetics of your home. Buying all the energy-efficient products in the world won’t help you keep your home warm if your windows are leaking air.
- Poor window operation – difficulty opening, closing and locking windows
Are you currently experiencing poor window operation? Maybe your windows are slow to open and close. Whatever the circumstance, you may have to consider a replacement.
Very few people realise that when a window fails to operate properly, the failure may be due to a replacement part. The problem may actually be a faulty seal around the frame or even in some cases a worn or incorrectly installed weatherstripping.
Properly designed and installed, new windows can provide better comfort, energy savings and increased longevity and can also improve the value of your home.
- Decaying frames and leaky windows
Weather-beaten sills and rotting frames can cause air to seep into your property. This can lead to rising energy bills as well as potential damage. Simply put, the longer you leave it, the more money you could be wasting.
- Poor soundproofing
If you are living in a state of constant frustration—repeatedly flinching every time a car backfires or your neighbour drops a glass—then it may be time to consider window replacement.
- Drafts on windy days
If you’ve noticed a cold blast of air through your living space on windy days, it might be time for window replacement. If one or more windows in your home open up to the outside and don’t close properly, they can act as air vents that let cold air and drafts into your home. It can definitely be frustrating during winter!
- You don’t have double glazing
Double-glazing can make a noticeable difference to your comfort in and around the home. It can also help you to reduce your energy consumption.
If your windows are not double-glazed, or if you have single-glazed windows, we recommend considering window replacement as the initial step if you want to improve their thermal performance.
What type of window is best for your home?
- Wood double-hung
It’s important to choose a top-quality window for your home. Whether it be for new construction or replacement, wood double-hung windows will offer you several benefits to consider. They’re stylish, energy-efficient and easy to maintain.
- Bow or bay window
Once you’ve seen how much light, space and character bow or bay windows add to a living room or kitchen, there are few other options that can compare. Bow or bay window windows for your home add value and transform classic to contemporary look according to different styles.
- Slider windows
Slider windows save you money and energy. Providing just the right amount of light into your home, slider window replacements will help keep it bright and warm inside.
- Awning windows
Awning windows allow you to tilt outwards for ventilation purposes, giving you much more control over the air circulation within your home. This type of window is ideal for areas that need maximum airflow or rooms that receive a lot of direct sunlight.
The tilt and turn mechanism allows you to swing them inwards when not in use, which helps reduce draughts and cuts down on noise pollution. They are also not too high off the floor so you do not have to worry about climbing up a ladder if you want to clean or maintain your awning windows.
- Fibreglass double-hung
Fibreglass double-hung windows are a great addition to any home for many reasons; they add curb appeal and light, which helps to increase the value of your home.
Fibreglass double hung-windows make all of this possible while still making it possible to maintain the classic style of your home. These windows are among the most durable replacement windows. They add style to your home while saving you money on energy costs.
- Wood casement
Why use wood casement windows for your home? To keep the outside world at bay, to enjoy life’s sunshine on a crisp day and to make a statement with a high-end look that will impress your friends and neighbours.
Conclusion
Getting new windows can be a smart investment.
Many people think that their home may be draughty, and a bit chilly in winter, but they put it down to normal wear and tear or an old house. The truth could be that their windows are not performing as well as they need them to, and aren’t keeping the home warm enough.
Replacing your windows can be a great way to get a “new lease on life” for your home. The first thing you will notice after upgrading to new windows is how much more comfortable it is inside during the summer and winter.
