Is it time to replace your windows? This is an important question. Windows do more than let in light or give you a view. They also keep your energy bills down and your home comfortable.
But like everything, they wear out.
Old windows can start leaking or letting in draughts that push up your energy costs, especially in winter.
Here’s what’s inside:
You might be wondering, “How long do windows last?” and “When’s the right time to replace your windows?” Well, it’s a bit of a “how long is a piece of string?” situation.
The answer? It depends—annoyingly vague, right? Let’s try to unpack that a bit, shall we?
How Long Do Windows Last?
Even the best windows don’t last forever. For example, double glazed windows usually need replacing after 15 to 20 years. But if they face harsh weather, that lifespan can shrink.
If you delay replacing worn-out windows, you could end up dealing with water damage, skyrocketing energy bills, and even mould creeping in. It might turn a simple replacement into a costly home repair project.
How to Know When to Repair vs. Replace Your Windows
Not sure if you should repair or replace your window? In some cases, repairs are the better choice.
Broken window glass
Most of the time, if you have a broken window, you don’t need to replace the entire window. A local repair expert can replace just the pane. They’ll remove the old glass, install a new one, and seal it.
Quick, simple, and cost-effective.
A component has broken
Do you have a stubborn lock or worn drip cap? Don’t stress—you likely won’t need a full replacement. Fixing the damaged part should fix the problem.
Preserving historic windows
In many old towns, there are rules on how the outside of your house, including the windows, should look. If your home has old, traditional windows made from sturdy, seasoned wood, it’s often cheaper to insulate them than replace them.
These old windows can last for ages and often add a delightful charm that’s very attractive to people who love historic features. They can even increase your home’s value.
Expensive frame materials
If your windows have frames made of expensive materials like fibreglass, it’s usually cheaper to hire a window repair expert to fix or replace any damaged glass rather than replace the whole window.
This way, you can keep your current frames and save money on replacement costs.
When Should You Replace Your Windows?
But what if repairs aren’t enough? Here are 10 signs your windows might be past their prime. If you spot any of these, it’s time to replace your windows.
1. When your windows are leaking
Leaky windows cause major problems. Poorly sealed windows or bad installation can lead to warped floors and water-damaged walls. If ignored, you could end up with water stains, high humidity, and even structural damage.
If you spot a leak, replace your windows sooner rather than later.
2. When your energy bills are high
Old windows silently drive up your energy bills, letting heat escape in winter and cold creep in. That’s money flying out the window!
Many UK homes still have single-pane windows, which do a poor job of insulating, making you pay more for less comfort. They also flood your home with warmth in summer.
If you can feel a draught near the windows or if the glass feels cold, that’s a clear sign you’re losing energy.
Replace your windows with new, energy efficient ones like uPVC models. They help keep your home more comfortable and reduce the strain on your heating and air conditioning systems. This means less wear and tear, which will in turn save you money on maintenance and energy bills in the long run.
3. When your windows are visibly damaged
Cracks in your windows? Time to replace them. Small cracks can lead to bigger problems like breakages, water seepage, mould, and pests.
If your wooden window frames feel soft, they’re likely rotting—replace them before the damage worsens.
Plus, let’s not forget the security side of things. Damaged windows can make it a whole lot easier for intruders to slip in. So, it would be best to replace your windows sooner rather than later to keep your home safer and save you from costly repairs in the future.
4. When your windows are draughty
Draughty windows can raise heating bills by up to 25%. If caulking and weather stripping haven’t fixed it, it’s time for new windows.
Here’s a quick tip: feel around the edges of your windows when firmly closed and locked. If you can feel air sneaking through, that’s a clear sign you’ve got draughts. And remember, draughts aren’t just a comfort issue. They could also point to problems with the window’s closing or locking mechanisms, which could be a security risk.
5. When your windows are difficult to open and close
Are you struggling to open or close your windows? They might be painted shut, warped by heat, or affected by your home shifting.
Jammed-open windows invite rain and pests, while stuck-shut ones block fresh air and escape routes.
If you’ve already tried cleaning and tinkering with them, but they’re still sticking, it may be time to replace your windows.
6. When your windows are old
Old windows might work fine but are often inefficient and raise energy bills. We suggest replacing windows that are over 20 years old. If you’ve lived in your home for decades and have yet to replace the windows, chances are they’re original to the house, and you should replace them.
You see, older windows are often just plain glass, maybe dual pane, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re energy efficient. Modern windows typically prevent air from leaking in and out of your house. They usually have special coatings, which block harmful UV rays that can fade your furniture and floors and pose health risks.
If your windows are missing these features, upgrade them for protection and energy savings.
7. When your window isn’t soundproof
Do you feel like you can hear every noise from outside your home? That might be because your old windows aren’t great at blocking out sound. There’s this thing called the Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating. It measures how good a window is at blocking sound. The higher the STC rating, the more peace and quiet you get.
Unfortunately, old single-pane windows usually have low ratings, around 18-20 points, so they don’t do much to silence the outside world.
However, modern windows can score between 28-32 points. There are even some high-performance ones with an STC rating of 48, which are perfect for noisy areas.
So, if peace and quiet are what you’re after, you need to replace your windows with newer, soundproof ones.
8. When you do not have double glazing
Single glazed windows aren’t great at keeping your home at a comfortable temperature because they don’t insulate well. On the other hand, double glazed windows are fantastic at keeping the heat in during winter and the heat out during summer.
If your room gets chilly in the winter and extremely hot in summer, consider switching to double glazed windows for year-round comfort.
Worried about the cost of getting a double glazed window? You might not have to foot the bill on your own. With schemes like our H2B Windows Grant Scheme, qualifying homeowners can upgrade their windows and doors to energy-efficient ones for free.
Not eligible? No worries. Our installation partners work with us to help homeowners afford essential home improvements.
All it takes is filling out a quick form to get some no-strings-attached quotes. It’s a simple step towards making your home comfortable and more energy efficient.
9. When you’re selling your home
Investing in new windows might be wise if you are considering selling your house. Windows that are difficult to open or are visibly damaged could raise red flags during a home inspection.
Such issues might lead to potential buyers lowering their offers or demanding repairs, which could end up costing you. Plus, let’s face it, no new homeowner wants the hassle of replacing windows right after they’ve moved in—it’s seen as an extra, unwelcome expense.
Replacing your windows shows potential buyers that you’ve really looked after your property and put money into keeping it modern, with perks like better insulation and noise reduction. This could speed up the sale process but might even spark a bidding war.
Basically, you could sell your home for more! With an average return on investment of around 68%. Who doesn’t love a home improvement that pays off?
10. When your windows no longer match your aesthetic
If your windows look out of place or don’t match your style, it might be time for a change.
When renovating, choosing new windows can completely transform the look of your home and really showcase your design flair.
Plus, opting to replace all your windows in one go ensures everything looks sleek and unified. You avoid that odd, mix-and-match effect that can happen if you update them bit by bit.
Benefits of Replacing Your Window
If you’ve read up to this point and are still hesitating over whether to replace your windows, then here are some benefits that might just nudge it to the top of your to-do list!
Reduce energy bills
Bad window frames and single glazed windows are practically an invite for high heating costs. The Energy Saving Trust reckons fitting new double-glazed windows could knock up £140 off your energy bills each year.
Increase your security
Let’s face it, weak windows might as well have a ‘welcome’ sign for opportunistic burglars. Whether it’s a fragile single-glazed pane in the loo or a kitchen window with battered wooden frames, upgrading your windows can beef up your home’s security to give you that peace of mind you get when you know your property is safe from potential break-ins.
Boost your home’s value
While original windows can add a touch of charm to an older property, they aren’t always the most practical choice. Thankfully, today’s selection of modern windows means you don’t have to choose between looks and efficiency. In fact, opting for double glazed windows could bump up the value of your home by up to 10%.
Be more environmentally friendly
Modern windows boost your green credentials. You get to keep your home snug and reduce your carbon footprint by up to 420kg at the same time, all without sacrificing a smidge of comfort.
FAQs
- How often should I replace my windows? Typically, windows have a good run of about 15 to 20 years before they need replacing. But keep your eyes peeled for signs like draughts, increasing energy bills, or if they’re difficult to open and close. These could all be your windows telling you it’s time for an upgrade.
- Can I repair my windows instead of replacing them? Sometimes, yes. Repairing might be best if it’s a simple fix like broken glass or a dodgy latch, especially if your windows are historically significant. However, if we’re talking about big issues like severe damage, replacing them often turns out more cost-effective in the long run.
- Will new windows save me money on energy bills? Absolutely! Modern windows are designed to be energy efficient. They have better sealing to keep your home comfortable. This improved insulation means less energy needed to heat or cool your space, which can lead to lower utility bills.
- How do I choose the right windows for my home? Think about your home’s style, energy saving goals, and budget. Chatting with window installers can be super helpful, as they can offer tailored advice and give you quotes specific to your needs. If keeping out noise is a big deal for you, look for windows with high STC ratings. And for top-notch insulation, consider options like double or triple glazing.