How to Know When to Replace Windows: Useful Tips

It’s a big decision for any property owner—how to know when to replace windows.

Maybe you’re the original owner. How often should windows be replaced? Your old windows appear to be functioning, but upgraded windows will save energy, reduce noise, and keep your home safer while looking new and beautiful!

While it’s sometimes apparent to know when to replace windows (moisture is leaking through the walls, or you feel a terrible draft), you still want to be sure you’re making the right call.

Here are signs to look for when replacing old windows with modern, efficient windows to increase your home’s value and make it an even better place to live.

How Often Should Windows Be Replaced?

One thing is for sure: all windows have a lifespan. If your home is between 15-20 years old, your windows are coming to their expiration date as the seals around your windows begin to fail. 

You’ll feel the draftiness and may see water leaking in because single-pane windows were the norm back then, and they lacked proper insulation. 

When to Replace Windows? If They’re Too Hard to Open!

You can’t open your windows anymore, and that’s frustrating.

It’s a clear sign that your windows need replacing, and windows that don’t open quickly aren’t just a pain. They’re unsafe if there’s ever an emergency.

A double-hung window designed for maximum ventilation and easy cleaning is a big improvement. Our well-functioning double-hung windows slide on two sashes that open smooth and fast.

Another recommendation is a convenient Easy-Slide Operator, exclusive to select windows in our awning and casement window categories. This simple sliding feature allows you to open and close your doors effortlessly with no cranking mechanism. 

Simple operation and durable, long-lasting windows are the keys to a home improvement project that looks beautiful, works the most efficiently, and increases the value of your home.

Drafts Mean Poorly Performing Windows

Drafty windows are bad news for your home or business year-round, and the culprit is failing sealant between the frame and the sash.

Window drafts typically result from old, poorly installed material. The result is higher energy costs as you struggle to heat your drafty home in winter and keep it comfortably cool in the summer.

Water Seeping in Is Even Worse

When you notice water leaking through the windows, it’s time to act. Property damage from water leaks can be expensive to fix and could cause health problems inside your home.

Mould and Condensation Are Big Problems

When you notice mould in your home, it doesn’t just look gross. Mould can lead to health problems for everyone, including an increased risk of child asthma and general respiratory illnesses in adults. 

Condensation in and around old windows often causes mould, but CWR has your fix.

Our warm-edge Super Spacer prohibits condensation build-up in our windows. It’s a dual-seal system that improves thermal efficiency while creating a moisture vapour seal on the glass edge of the windows where heating and cooling loss can occur.

For added efficiency and function, we fusion-weld the corners of our windows, creating a surface that’s airtight and watertight.

Who Needs Rising Energy Costs?

Your rising energy bills are a good clue for how to know when to replace windows.

Energy costs may be rising for us all, but if your bills are higher than you expected, your poorly insulated and installed windows may be to blame.

Our energy-efficient windows keep warm air inside when you need it. This reduced heat transfer rate means your home is much more comfortable inside, with less strain on your furnace.

Outdoor Noises Are Less Bothersome

Another benefit of energy-efficient windows is that you can’t hear the noisy neighbourhood outside, which is a good thing!

Our well-insulated windows effectively reduce outdoor noises penetrating through the glass or even the frame. That’s because the windows contain many air chambers inside to stop air leaks, and that works to dampen noise. 

CWR is also pleased to offer dual and triple-paned windows with airtight seals if you want more soundproofing.

Faded Furniture and Carpeting Show You When to Replace Windows

Natural light from the sun feels lovely and lifts our spirits, but anything can be damaged when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays for a prolonged period.

Does your furniture look faded, and does the carpet appear less vivid? Sun damage can also ruin artwork and other delicate items in your home. But we have a solution!

The Low-E (low emissivity) glass window panes will improve the comfort inside your home by reducing solar heat gain. It can also prevent fading of your furniture, carpet, and other items by blocking harmful UV rays. 

CWR is pleased to use Vinyl-Pro glass, a specially engineered Low-E coating that blocks up to 95% UV rays.

If you’re concerned about your outdoor view being affected, this product still transmits abundant natural light, so your view remains unspoiled.

The Time Is Now to Replace Single-Pane Windows

Dual or triple-glazed windows aren’t just the future. They’re now.

When you upgrade your windows, your energy efficiency can improve dramatically, with a noticeable improvement in comfort inside.

Extra panes of glass not only boost insulation but also act as buffers to contain airflow and reduce noise pollution. We can also add argon or krypton gas as buffers, creating long-lasting benefits and durability.

No More Headaches With Maintenance

CWR works with vinyl windows —an exceptional material that is low-maintenance and affordable.

While you have to refinish and repaint wood window frames year after year, the exceptional uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl) compound in our windows can handle UV rays and harsh weather without warping, cracking, or blistering.

Our windows are highly resistant to impacts and discoloration. All of those benefits mean a virtually maintenance-free window!

It’s Your Decision When to Replace Windows

We hope it’s clearer how to know when to replace windows, but the truth is, the decision is yours.

When you want more information on the real benefits of new windows for your home or property, a trusted CWR professional would love to speak to you!