It can be challenging to determine if it’s time to replace your windows. For many homeowners, the signs are clear: your windows may be old, drafty, dated, or are beyond repair. However, for some homeowners, the indications might not be as obvious. In fact, your windows might not have any noticeable signs that it’s time for them to be replaced. In that case, how do you know it’s time for a window replacement?

Quality-built windows (like those made by SoftLite) play a variety of important roles by providing security and sound reduction, improving your home’s curb appeal, increasing the amount of natural light inside the house (and blocking harmful rays), and improving energy efficiency. Old, run-down or damaged windows are not only a security issue but they negatively impact your home’s overall comfort and energy costs.

Timing is an essential factor when you’re preparing for a window replacement. You’ll want to make the most of your current windows’ life cycle but should replace them before they start to compromise your quality of life.

1. Drafts

Drafts are one of the most noticeable signs it’s time to replace your windows. Older windows often lose their seal over time, allowing the comfortable air from inside your home to escape. Energy loss through worn, drafty windows accounts for nearly one-third of your heating and cooling costs. That’s why savvy homeowners choose to reap the money-saving benefits of upgrading to SoftLite’s modern replacement windows. All SoftLite windows feature hundreds of inches of innovative double- or triple-fin UltraSmart Weatherstripping that not only provides extreme protection against drafts, but also protects against airborne bacteria, pollen, and mold.

2. High Utility Bills 

If you notice drafts, you may have noticed increased utility bill costs. This could be a sign of air infiltration. As your original windows reach the end of their life, small cracks and leaks will start to form between the frames, allowing the outside air to enter your household. Leaky windows contribute to higher utility costs and can cause discomfort during months of extremely high or low temperatures. Even if you don’t recognize noticeable drafts, you may still lose valuable conditioned air to window leaks. With air infiltration being one of the largest sources of high utility bills, SoftLite ENERGY STAR^® certified windows are built securely with quality materials that result in energy savings you can see and feel.

3. Faulty Operation

Many outdated windows develop balance issues, which lead to the hinges jamming and sticking. The formation of rust, rot, or mold may also factor into this, indicating that your existing windows are nearing the end of their life. However, you can expect years of reliable performance with little maintenance with our wide variety of replacement window options.

4. Excessive Condensation Between Glass Panes

Do you regularly see fog or condensation building up on your windows? Condensation can mean that your current windows’ glazing is losing its effectiveness. If you see excessive condensation in between the panes of glass, it could be a sign that your window seals have failed, and it’s time to replace them before your windows get too leaky. Keep in mind that condensation can sometimes be a sign of too much humidity in a home and not enough airflow. Running a dehumidifier or fan may help remedy the situation. Watch this short video to learn more about condensation. To prevent this type of issue, we recommend homeowners invest in our high-performing ENERGY STAR® certified windows.

5. Outdated Design

Just like the rest of your home, homeowners may simply want to upgrade for aesthetic purposes – we get it! Our windows are as beautiful as they are functional and come in a wide array of shapes, styles, and finishes to create the design of your dreams. So whether you’re looking for a large picture to frame the perfect view or are wanting to complete your cozy breakfast nook with bay windows, SoftLite has just the thing for your home.

In addition to the beauty, ​​replacing windows is also one of the top home projects to boost your home’s value. Since a home’s exterior makes the first impression for potential buyers, new windows play a vital role in selling your home. The 2021 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported that homeowners can expect, on average, vinyl windows to provide a return on investment of over 68 percent.

6. Audible Outside Noises

Take a moment to stand quietly by the window and wait for a car to drive by. Can you hear it coming from down the street? Poor-performing single-pane windows, or even double-pane windows, will transfer sound vibrations from the road into your house. Before you know it, all the noise will add up, and you can wave goodbye to peace and quiet. A properly manufactured, tight-fitting window frame will significantly reduce air infiltration to absorb these sound waves before they even enter your home.

7. Security and Severe Weather

While glass breakage is an obvious concern and sign that it’s time to replace a window, ensuring a window is resistant to breakage in the first place is crucial. Our impact windows come with two heavy-duty cam sweep locks and a nearly impenetrable PVB interlayer that prevents shattering against even the most aggressive blows with sharp or blunt objects. The added benefits of our quality impact windows further secure the window from both violent storms and intrusion. Homeowners want to be confident that their windows can withstand even the most intense weather, not to mention attempted break-ins and other potential hazards and accidents.

As you can see, windows can significantly improve a home’s overall appearance by increasing the amount of natural light, offering soundproofing benefits, and providing superior energy efficiency. So, when you’re ready to start your window replacement project, we’re ready and available to help. SoftLite vinyl windows are a functional upgrade no matter why you choose to start this project and are sure to provide a high return on investment. Contact our experienced dealer network for a home renovation venture you won’t regret.