Let’s shine some light on the signs
Brand new windows can lower your energy bills, make your home more comfortable, and boost your home’s appearance. But you may wonder whether a simple repair can suffice—or if you should bite the bullet and opt for all new windows.
Here's how to know if it’s time to replace your windows rather than repair them.
7 Signs You Should Replace Your Windows
You may need new windows in your home if you’re experiencing one or more of these common issues:
1. The Room Feels Drafty
If air is leaking in through your windows, you’ll feel cool drafts and may even hear the wind whistling through them. If you’ve caulked your windows and done weatherstripping but are still experiencing draftiness, it might be time for a total window replacement.
2. The Glass Is Foggy
When you have double- or triple-paned windows, condensation can get trapped between the panes. If your windows seem cloudy or foggy, it could mean there’s a leak, which requires a window replacement, although you may be able to fix the seal on the window instead of replacing the entire unit—especially if your window frame is still in good shape.
3. Your Energy Bills Are High
If your old windows aren’t energy-efficient, they leak hot and cold air to the outside, causing your heating and cooling systems to work harder to keep your home comfortable. Skyrocketing utility bills are a sign that you may need to replace your windows.
4. Your Windows Don’t Open or Close Properly
If your windows get stuck or don't close all the way, it could be due to a shifting foundation, window frame deterioration, or a painted-shut window. You'll likely need to replace your windows and frames for full function.
5. Your Window Frames Are Soft
If you have wood windows, moisture can cause the outside framing to rot. If your exterior framing feels soft to the touch, you’ll want to replace your windows and frames soon.
6. Water Is Seeping In
If you notice water coming in through your windows, it’s a likely sign that you should get new windows. Water damage can be expensive and dangerous to the rest of your home.
7. You Want to Update the Look
Older windows and window frames can hinder your home’s appearance. New windows can make your home appear more modern, up-to-date, and beautiful.
When To Repair Your Windows Instead
The typical cost of repairing a window ranges from $160 to $550. There are a few occasions when repairing your old windows might be enough. Here are reasons to repair your windows instead of replacing them:
Broken Glass
If your window has a broken pane of glass, you can simply hire a window pro to repair it. This process is also known as window reglazing, and helps you avoid a full window replacement.
Faulty Component
When just one component of a window isn’t functioning, a repair is often possible. If your window needs a new locking mechanism or exterior drip cap, for instance, a repair may be all you need.
Historic Window
Many historic districts have specific guidelines about a house's exterior, including windows. Sometimes it's more cost-effective to make your old windows more energy-efficient rather than replace them. Plus, many antique windows in old houses are made of durable old-growth wood, so they can stand up to decades of use.
Benefits of Window Replacements
Replacing your old windows with updated energy-efficient windows can offer your home a host of advantages:
Lower energy bills and reduced carbon footprint (25% to 30% of heating and cooling energy use is attributed to heat loss and gain through windows)
Better insulation and more comfortable indoor temperatures
Reduced noise
Increased safety
Easier to open and close
Better view of the outdoors
Updated appearance
Increases your home’s value
You can reach out to a professional energy auditor or a local window replacement company to inspect your home and see if it’s time to replace your windows.
Types of Replacement Windows
When it comes to window replacement, there are several options. First, you’ll need to decide between new construction windows or replacement windows.
New construction windows: These windows are installed from the exterior and you may need to remove trim and siding to put them in.
Replacement windows: These windows are installed from the interior and are usually easier and less expensive to install.
Second, you’ll need to choose your material. The material and style you choose depends on your home and what you desire in your new windows. Common new window materials include:
Aluminum
Vinyl
Composite
Wood
Fiberglass
Cost of New Windows
The cost of window replacement typically falls between $75 to $1,500 per window plus $100 to $300 each for labor. Custom or extra-large windows can boost your project price by 25% to 50%.
The material of your window dictates the price along with the style. Here’s a breakdown of common window types and their prices:
Storm windows: $50–$300
Single-hung: $100–$400
Double-hung: $150–$650
Sliding: $150–$800
Folding: $500–$900
Casement: $150–$1,000
Picture: $300–$1,200
Bay: $1,800
Bow: $1,500–$6,500
Your new windows may be eligible for a federal tax credit and other local, state, and utility company credits and loan programs. These offerings can reduce the price of your overall project. Replacing your windows during the winter, when installation pros are less busy, is another way to save money.
Should I Replace My Windows All at Once?
Replacing all your windows at once saves you money per window, reducing your costs in the long run. Getting all new windows can create a cohesive style and boost the value of your home. You can certainly replace some of your windows and not all of them, but avoid replacing fewer than five windows at a time to avoid higher overhead costs.
