The windows act as one of the main barriers that protects the interior of your home from the weather conditions outside, while also providing large aesthetic benefits due to the view and increased natural lighting. However, since they are constantly exposed to the weather outside, your windows can begin to structurally degrade over time, increasing the risk of physical damage, leaks, and other problems which can be damaging and expensive to fix. Knowing the warning signs of a window installation that no longer functions as it should can help you determine when you should get in touch with a contractor about a new window installation.

Fogging and Condensation

One of the clearest indicators that your windows are overdue for a replacement is if you notice that the glass has fogged up or suffered from condensation on the interior of the window pane. Any sort of moisture within the middle of the two panes of glass points to the fact that the window is no longer properly sealed, which has allowed air to flow into that space. This can make it much easier for heat to transfer into or out of your home, depending on the season, and can also open up the risk of water damage to your window frames.

Water Damage

In the same train of thought to the above point, any sign of water damage to the frame around the window is also a good indication that you should consider replacement. Water damage can take many forms, but will most commonly cause staining and discoloration, peeling paint, wood that is soft or flaky to the touch, and even in severe cases the growth of mold and mildew. Extended periods of water damage can cause the window frame to begin to fall apart, creating gaps that allow greater amounts of water into your home, where it can cause more significant damage.

Increased Utility Bills

Another sign that your windows may be in need of replacement is if you notice that there are drafts or areas of irregular or uneven heating within your home, especially near specific windows. This will come hand in hand with increased energy bills each month, as your central heating and cooling system will have to work harder for longer to maintain the same temperature that it was initially set at, due to poor insulation. Replacing your windows can help reduce these monthly costs, which can offset the price of installing new windows in the first place.

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