When To Replace Your Home Windows And What Type Of Window To Replace Them With | Lewisville, TX
Your home windows protect your Lewisville, TX, home from the elements and keep your energy bills low. But over time, even the best windows can show their age and need replacement. Here are a few signs it might be time to replace your windows:
Over 20 Years Old
Most windows last between 15 and 20 years. If your windows are older than that, they may be drafty and inefficient. Replacement windows can help keep your home comfortable and reduce your energy bills. Also, when you’re ready to sell your home, updated windows can be a selling point.
Single-Pane Glass
Energy Window Solutions can help you choose the right windows for your home. Single-pane glass doesn’t do a great job insulating your home, so if your home windows are single-pane, it’s time to upgrade. The best replacement windows have double- or triple-pane glass, which can help reduce your energy bills.
High Energy Bills
If your energy bills have been creeping up, even though you haven’t changed your habits, it could be because of drafty home windows. New, energy-efficient windows can make a big difference in your energy bills. The savings in your energy bills quickly offset the expense of the windows.
Condensation or Moisture Between the Glass Panes
Condensation is a sign that the window’s seal has failed. Once the seal fails, it’s only a matter of time before the window fogs up. Once that happens, the window needs to be replaced. The condensation can also cause water damage to your home.
Cracks or Chips in the Glass
Even small cracks and chips can let in drafts and allow moisture to get in, leading to mold and mildew. If you have cracks or chips in your home windows, it’s time to replace them. These cracks can also worsen over time, so it’s best to take care of them sooner rather than later. They also reduce the curb appeal of your home. Double- or triple-pane windows offer more protection from storms and can help keep your home safe.
Difficulty Opening or Closing
When your windows become difficult to open or close, it’s a sign that the window is no longer appropriately balanced. This can be due to age or wear and tear. Once the balance is gone, it’s only a matter of time before it needs to be replaced. Although a repair is possible, it may not be worth the cost. If you’re unsure, a professional can look and let you know.
Excessive Outside Noise
New home windows can help reduce the noise level in your home and make it more peaceful. If your home windows let in too much noise from outside, it’s time to replace them. Energy Window Solutions can help if you’re considering replacing your home windows. We offer various windows to choose from, so you can find the perfect windows for your Lewisville, TX home. Double- or triple-pane windows can offer the most protection from noise.
Fading Floors or Furniture
If your floors or furniture are fading, it could be because of the sun coming in through your windows. New windows with Low-E glass can help protect your floors and furniture from fading and reduce solar heat gain in your home. These are also a good choice if you live in a hot climate like Texas.
Water Damage Around the Window
Water damage around a home window is a sure sign that it’s time to replace it. Water damage can lead to mold and mildew, damaging your home’s structure. If you see any water damage around your windows, it’s time to replace them.
How to Choose Replacement Windows
Once you’ve decided to replace your home windows, the next step is to choose the right windows for your home. There are many factors to consider, such as the type of glass, the frame material, and the energy efficiency. The most common type of glass is a double pane, but consider a triple pane for even more energy efficiency.
Double Vs. Triple-Pane Windows
For energy efficiency, double-pane windows are the most common. But if you want even more energy efficiency, consider triple-pane windows. These windows have an extra layer of glass, which helps keep your home even more insulated.
U-Factor
The U-factor is a measure of how effectively a window insulates. The lower the U-factor, the better the window is at keeping the heat in during the winter and out during the summer. Look for windows with a U-factor of 0.30 or lower.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
The SHGC measures how well a window blocks heat from the sun. The lower the number, the better the window blocks the sun’s heat. Look for windows with an SHGC of 0.30 or lower.
Visible Transmittance (VT)
The VT measures how much light comes through the window. The higher the number, the more light comes through. Look for windows with a VT of 0.50 or higher.
Energy Efficiency
When choosing windows, look for the ENERGY STAR® label. This label means the windows meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US government. ENERGY STAR®-labeled windows can help save you money on your energy bills.
Type of Glass
There are many types of glass to choose from, such as clear, tinted, reflective, and low-emissivity (Low-E) glass. Clear glass is the most common type but doesn’t offer much energy efficiency. Tinted glass can help reduce the heat and UV rays from the window.
Reflective glass has a coating that reflects the sun’s heat away from the window. Low-E glass has a thin layer that helps reduce the heat and UV rays that come through the window.
Frame Material
There are several frame materials, such as wood, vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum. Wood frames are the most common type but require more maintenance than other frames. However, vinyl frames are a good choice if you want low maintenance.
Energy Window Solutions can help you choose the right home windows for your Lewisville, TX, home. We offer a variety of windows to choose from, so you can find the perfect windows for your home.