Windows aren’t easy or cheap to replace. However, you could find that it’s worth the time and cost if your windows are very old. Many older windows have poor heat insulation, poor security and poor soundproofing qualities compared to newer windows. They may even let in drafts and moisture, and may negatively impact the value of your home. Below are just a few questions to ask yourself to determine whether it’s time to replace your windows.
Are they in poor condition?
Windows in poor condition may devalue your home and leave your windows vulnerable to break-ins, water leaks and drafts. Of course, some damage is fairly easy and cheap to fix - you can easily repaint wooden frames that are flaking or replace a broken pane on a single window. You should be more concerned if most of your windows are showing signs of major damage such as rot, cracking or water leaks. In most cases, it’s usually easier to just replace all your windows than to try to repair such damage.
Do they offer any insulation?
A lot of older windows are single-paned. Such windows can lose a lot of heat, resulting in your home getting colder faster in winter. This often means using more energy to heat your home. By switching to double glazing or triple glazing you could help to trap heat in your home longer and reduce your energy bills. Of course, there are many other options to help prevent heat loss from windows including adding thick curtains, installing shutters or using insulating film. These could be a cheaper alternative to installing new windows.
How secure are they?
Another good reason to upgrade your windows could be to improve your home security. Many old windows do not have strong glass or frames, making it easy for a burglar to break in. Some old windows don’t even have locks on the inside. Upgrading to new windows could help to make your home safer. That said, there are other cheaper ways to keep your windows secure such as these Xceed security screens or security shutters. Consider these alternatives if you’re on a tight budget.
Do they add to the character of your home?
Old windows may not be worth replacing if they add to your home’s character. For example, historic timber windows are often worth preserving due to the charm and value that they can add to a property. You may even find that you’re not allowed to replace historic windows - certain features in old buildings are protected and you could face heavy fines for removing them.
How much will they cost to replace?
When replacing windows, you should look into the cost to determine whether it’s truly worthwhile. This is likely to depend on how many windows your home has and how large they are. While you can replace one or two windows, they may look out of place with the rest of the windows if you don’t match them with the exact same style. This is why it’s often better to replace all your windows at once. Collect multiple quotes from different contractors to get an idea of the average price and decide whether you can financially stretch to it.