“Should I repair or replace my windows and doors?”
It’s a question every homeowner asks themselves at least once. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), along with other organizations like the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors, offers tips to help consumers decide which option is best when their home’s windows and doors look like they could use some work.
The CMHC says the decision on whether to repair windows or doors depends on each homeowner’s priorities and financial situation. If the top priorities are the property value and energy use, replacing is the way to go. If cost savings are a concern, repairing can sometimes be an affordable approach, but you need to consider the condition of your windows and doors as this may not be worth it.
Signs that it’s Time to Replace Your Windows and Doors
Are you wondering how to really tell when your windows or doors have kicked the bucket? It can feel daunting to even think about replacing them. However, just like with your roof, appliances, or other essentials, it’s something that eventually can’t be ignored. Plus, they have a major impact on the comfort, safety, cost, and aesthetics of your home. To learn when it’s time to take notice, here are nine signs you need to be on the lookout for that it’s time to replace your windows and doors.
The Frames Are Warped and Cracked
One of the first signs is usually any damage along the frames of the windows or doors. Warped, cracked, and/or split frames not only look unattractive, but they can also cause air leaks in your home. This can impact your comfort level and your energy bills each month. In addition, it’s a pain to control indoor relative humidity as a result – for a healthy environment, it should be between 40 and 60 percent – as the moisture escapes through these openings.
Your Energy Costs Are High
As mentioned, old, cracked, and warped windows or doors are a major contributing factor to spiking heating and cooling bills. When you have your thermostat blasting away with gaps or air leaks along your windows, this can force your HVAC system to work even harder just to keep your home comfortable. And with energy costs increasing rapidly, more homeowners are recognizing the benefits of upgrading to newer models that can retain the temperature and provide greater insulating properties to keep those monthly costs lower.
You Live in a Noisy Neighbourhood
Is your surrounding neighbourhood ruining your sleep? Enduring constant noise and interruptions when you’re at home can have a serious impact on your overall quality of life, especially if you work from home. If you or your family have been struggling with the excessive sounds, whether it’s from buses, a nearby airport or loud neighbours, newer windows and doors with dual-pane glass can help keep your home nice and quiet.
Your Furniture is Fading
The single-pane glass used in many older windows and doors can also cause your furniture, artwork, and other personal items to fade over time. If you notice that many items near the window are looking washed out, especially woods and fabrics, replacing the windows with newer designs can block out the UV rays and prevent this from happening by up to 95%!
Your Curb Appeal Looks Drab
When you stand on the sidewalk and look up at your home, what’s your first impression? If you think it’s looking weathered and worn, take a closer look along your windows and front door. These can seriously impact the look of your home, making it look unkempt and older than it really is. By replacing them, you can help to maintain your most significant investment – not to mention keep your property’s value where it ought to be.
They’re a Nuisance to Open
Do you or your family members struggle to open the windows or doors in your house? If so, this could be a potential safety hazard. Your family should be able to get out of your house quickly in case of a fire or other emergency. So, if your windows or doors are sticking or not functioning properly, it might be time to consider swapping them out.
They Leak During a Storm
If your ageing windows or old patio doors end up leaking and letting water pool inside your home during a storm, take this as a sign to replace them. Aside from affecting your comfort, frames, and flooring, this can also lead to mould and mildew spores, which can pose a health hazard to you and your family. If you notice leaks or signs of mould along your window or door frames, it’s time to upgrade.
It Takes too Much Time and Money to Maintain
If you’re spending more money and time just trying to maintain your patio doors, front door, or windows, it might be a red flag – especially if you’re spending more than you had hoped. You can put an end to all that costly maintenance with advanced frames made from aluminum or vinyl, which are exceptionally strong, durable, and can hold up to the weather.
Buyers Aren’t Biting
Have you placed your home up for sale with no real potential bites from buyers yet? Your old windows or doors could be partially to blame. These days, home buyers aren’t interested in purchasing older homes that require a lot of time and money to renovate. They want a home that’s practically move-in ready, and that includes upgraded energy-efficient windows and doors. They’re also willing to pay more for these upgrades in the asking price. So, if you’re planning to sell, make sure to perform this upgrade first.
Other Considerations
There are other factors the CMHC says homeowners should take into consideration regarding window and door renovations. These include making sure they match the original style of a house, determining how much moisture is being let in when in use, and if excessive amounts of condensation forms on windows. If homeowners still have a hard time determining whether to repair or replace windows and doors, a certified home inspector can help. With winter in full swing, it may be a good idea to have the entire house examined as a precaution.
When you’re looking for qualified, professional, and reliable installation services for your home, contact us at Aztech Windows & Doors. We’re happy to provide you with energy-efficient, highly dependable window and door solutions that are built to last and look great!