Windows are one of the most important features of a home, offering protection from the elements and tons of curb appeal. But as windows age, they can seriously drain your energy costs, look outdated, and cause other problems in the home. Replacing your old windows with brand new ones comes with many benefits, some you may not have considered. We’ve gathered the top unexpected benefits of replacing old windows, as well as how to know you need to replace your windows, and everything you should know when choosing new windows.

1. Energy Savings

One of the most important and most popular benefits of replacing windows is the energy savings. New windows are designed better than ever to keep out the elements and protect your home environment. Keep the cold air out in the winter, and keep the hot air out and block sunlight in the summer. New windows are better insulated and reduce drafts, which means your furnace and air conditioner won’t have to work quite as hard. You’ll save money on your energy bills, reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system, and feel better about using less energy and reducing your carbon footprint.

2. Increased Comfort

Preventing drafts coming from your windows is about more than energy savings — it’s more comfortable for everyone inside too. Properly installed, new windows have a much better seal between the window frames and the home, so you won’t feel drafts like you might with older windows. Also, newer windows use double or triple panes of glass, with a thin layer of argon gas in between those panes. This technology reduces the transfer of heat through the windows and blocks some of the sun’s rays, reducing the greenhouse effect of sunlight through your windows. You can enjoy a more comfortable indoor temperature year-round with new windows.

3. Increased Home Value

Do new windows increase home value? Absolutely! With any home improvement project, homeowners want to know if the upgrade will be worth it, and new windows can bring you a significant return on your investment (ROI) — up to 72%. Homebuyers are aware of the investment cost of installing new windows and will be concerned with the age of a home’s windows. Brand new windows are attractive to potential buyers because they know they won’t have to replace the windows for a long time. There’s also the added perk for buyers of knowing energy bills will be lower with new windows.

4. Safety

New windows provide several benefits regarding safety and security that you may not have considered. For one thing, newer windows are often made from tempered glass or laminated glass, both of which are less likely to shatter into sharp, jagged shards if the window gets broken, minimizing the chance of injury. New windows also have safety features like locks and sensors that make them harder to force open and break into from outside, keeping you safer and more secure in your home. Lastly, new windows also have better functionality than older windows that may be warped or painted shut. This means newer windows are a much easier escape route from house fires and other emergencies.

5. Noise Reduction

The same features that protect against heat and energy loss through windows — double and triple panes and layers of argon gas — can also provide sound dampening benefits. Many homeowners are surprised by just how quiet it is inside once their new windows are installed. New windows can block and reduce noises from construction, traffic, and neighbors. Enjoy the peace and quiet of your indoor environment with new windows.

6. Easier Maintenance

Cleaning and maintaining old windows can be a hassle, but the newer windows today have several special features that make cleaning and maintenance much easier for any homeowner. Older wooden window frames need to be refinished every few years, but newer composite frames require so little maintenance they are basically maintenance-free. New window designs also feature easy-to-clean options like tilt-in window frames and sashes so you can clean the exterior of the windows while still inside the home. Some even feature blinds or shades inside of the window panes, making dusting and cleaning much easier.

7. Better Curb Appeal

New windows enhance the look of a home as well — both inside and out. Choose from wood, fiberglass, aluminum, or composite windows in a wide variety of colors and finishes that can enhance the look of your home, complementing existing trim or providing a striking coordinating color to your home’s exterior. New windows give a greater curb appeal, which increases your home’s value. The windows will also increase the beauty from inside the home, enhancing your overall interior design too.

8. UV Protection

One of the most unexpected benefits of replacing your old windows is the UV protection that new windows can provide. Most people want a home with lots of windows, providing plenty of natural light throughout the rooms. However, with older windows that do not have any UV protection, your home’s walls, floors, furniture, and decor are subject to fading and sun damage if too much sunlight comes in through the windows. New windows with double or triple panes with layers of argon gas keep out most UV rays and protect your home’s interior from fading and sun damage.

9. Reduced Allergens

Window coverings like curtains, shades, and blinds can harbor dust and allergens and can be difficult to clean regularly. Some modern window designs include options for blinds and shades incorporated right inside the windows. This means that no dust will accumulate on the blinds or shades, and your home will have one less landing place for the dust and allergens that can be so irritating. It’s also one less thing you need to clean, and no cords for the blinds mean increased safety for kids and pets.

10. Easier Use

Brand new windows are simply easier to use. Old windows can warp over time, and multiple coats of paint around the framing can make a window difficult to open and close properly. Window locks and handles wear out and become hard to use. New windows take care of this problem and are incredibly easy to use in comparison. They’re easy to open and close and often have multiple options for locking and other safety measures. Tilting sashes mean you can clean the outsides of even your upstairs windows easily, and integrated shades and blinds make dusting and window cleaning even easier.

Knowing When to Purchase New Windows

Windows can wear out as they age, and many things can go wrong that make your windows less effective at doing their job. Quality windows offer safety and security, as well as energy efficiency, comfort, and protection from the elements. If your windows aren’t functioning the way they used to, it may be time for a replacement. Here are the telltale signs that it’s time to purchase new windows:

  • Drafts: If you can feel a draft coming from your window, there may be cracks or gaps in the window or framing or an improper seal. Drafty windows make your furnace and air conditioner work overtime, increasing your energy bill.
  • Damaged windows: Replace any windows with obvious signs of damage right away. Windows can crack, warp, and break from extreme weather like hail or having an object thrown at them.
  • High energy bills: If you’ve noticed your heating and cooling costs creeping up the past few years, your windows may be to blame. Your windows may be leaking heat and causing drafts, pushing your HVAC system to work harder and use more energy.
  • Condensation constantly builds up: Some condensation in certain conditions is completely harmless, but if you find that your windows seem to be fogging up often, have moisture beading up around the edges, or get frost in the winter, it can indicate a problem. If the moisture is collecting in between the panes of glass, it means the seal is broken, and your windows do not have the same insulating qualities.
  • Extra security or soundproofing is needed: Old windows can be safety hazards, creating easy entry points for burglars, while new, high-quality windows are a deterrent against criminal activity. Older windows also let in far more noise from outside. If you want more peace and quiet, as well as peace of mind, new windows are the way to go.
  • Single-pane windows: If your home still has single-pane windows, it’s a sign your windows are older and may need replacement. This older style of window offers very little in terms of insulation, energy efficiency, and sound dampening. New windows are more likely to be double- or even triple-pane and offer more protection against the elements.
  • Windows are tough to use: Windows that are difficult to open, close, and lock could be damaged or warped, and it may be time to consider replacing them. New windows should open and close with ease and are much easier to clean too.
  • Mold or decaying frames: If the frames around your windows are in disrepair with cracks and decaying wood, it’s time for a replacement. These cracks can let in drafts, and the wood will continue to get worse. If you see evidence of mold on the window frames, you may have a serious moisture problem that can cause health problems for your family. Replace moldy windows as soon as possible.
  • Outdated appearance: Old, outdated windows can drag down a home’s overall curb appeal, but new windows provide a fresh look that’s more attractive, adding to the home’s visual impact.

Considerations When Purchasing a New Window for Your Home

If you know your windows need replacing, it’s time to shop for new windows. When you’re choosing new windows, there are several things to consider to ensure you get the right windows for your home. Keep these factors in mind:

  • Window design and opening style: Windows come in all types of architectural styles and different ways of opening. From double-hung and casement to sliding, awning, hopper, bay, and bow windows, there are many choices available. If you’re replacing existing windows, you may be restricted to the same sizes and shapes you had before, unless you’re planning on a larger renovation project. But even if you must have the same size and opening style, you can still choose from various trim finishes and other design options.
  • Window glazing: Many older windows only utilize a single pane of glass, but more modern windows often use double or triple layers. You can choose the option that’s best for you depending on cost and the level of insulation, sound dampening qualities, and energy efficiency you want. Pay attention to the number of panes or layers of glass, as well as any coatings applied to the glass layers. Some windows have an invisible film applied that acts as an extra layer of glass. Others utilize argon gas between the glass panes as an extra layer of insulation.
  • U-factor rating: The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) gives ratings to windows in the form of U-factors. The lower the U-factor rating, the better the window is. The NFRC will also grade windows for home or commercial use. Look for “AA” or “residential” labels for home windows.
  • Materials: The materials used for windows go beyond the window glass. Window frames are available in several materials including composite, wood, and aluminum. You can choose the best material that fits your budget and style.
  • Construction and installation: You want your new windows to be constructed using the highest quality materials and processes and installed by experienced technicians. Homespire Windows are manufactured in Pennsylvania and held to the highest quality standards and we only use W2, employee installers.
  • Security: You want your windows to have safety features that will protect your home, like strong layers of glass, quality window locks, and other security features that make them more difficult to break into.
  • Energy savings: Old windows can increase your energy costs, so you’ll want to make sure your new windows are energy-efficient and will save you money in the long run.

Request a Free Window Consultation With Homespire

There are many reasons to replace windows, and if you find yourself facing any of these issues, it’s time to call in the professionals. With 25 years of home improvement experience, the experts at Homespire Windows and Doors can help you find the best quality windows for your needs and budget. Contact Homespire today by calling 833-684-1873 or use our online contact form to schedule a free window analysis. One of our expert representatives will come to your home and work with you to determine the best windows for you and provide you with a free estimate. Get started today by scheduling your free window analysis.