As a homeowner, home maintenance projects are endless. Even the newest of homes require regular upkeep. Furthermore, as your exterior battles the natural elements on a daily and yearly basis, the need for new home improvements is necessary.
Replacing your windows could be the best investment you make to your home, while lowering your utility bills. If you live in a harsh cold climate, the warm spring months are the best time to replace your existing home windows. On the other hand, if your climate is hot and humid in the summer months, during the Spring is the best time to replace your existing home windows to avoid swollen wood and fluctuations in moisture.
Here are a few factors to consider before replacing your windows:
–Warm or Cool Spots: Warm or cold spots on the inside of the window mean your home is not being properly insulated.
–Drafts: Do the candle test. Begin by lighting a candle and tracing it around the perimeter of the window. As you trace around the window the candle should not flicker. If it does, you have a draft.
–Peeling Paint: Moisture, exposure to UV Rays, and extreme temperature changes all cause expansion and contraction, resulting in peeling paint, and windows not closing properly.
–Soft Window Frames: Using a flat blade screwdriver, tap the window frame. If the screwdriver can be easily pushed into the wood, there is decay.
–Frost and Ice: If your windows frost or ice over in cold weather, there is poor insulation.
–Smooth Operation: Your windows should open and close without sticking, and stay open without a prop.
–Exterior Noise: Old single-pane windows have poor insulation. Upgrading to new windows can help in sound reduction.
–Don’t See The Light: Have one person stand outside and shine a flashlight around the window frame. The person inside should not see the light travel around the edges. If they do, there is caulk or seal failure, leading to energy loss.