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If your windows are drafty, fogging up between panes, or hard to open or close, it might be time for a replacement. Unexplained increases in your energy bills, rotting frames, broken seals, and noticeable noise from outside can also indicate it’s time for new windows. In addition, if you find yourself frequently needing to repair your windows, it’s probably more cost-effective in the long run to replace them.

You should avoid using abrasive materials and harsh chemicals when cleaning windows. Abrasive tools like scrubbing pads, rough cloths, or steel wool can permanently scratch and damage the glass. Harsh chemical cleaners containing alcohol or ammonia can damage window treatments, frame materials, and special features like tinting. It is also best to use distilled or filtered water instead of hard water, which can leave spots or streaks. For best results, use a clean microfiber cloth to wash the glass and old black and white newspapers to dry it without leaving streaks.

Storm windows provide several key benefits. They offer improved insulation and soundproofing, which adds comfort to your home by regulating internal temperatures and blocking external elements. Storm windows also help reduce energy costs by preventing cold or hot air from getting inside. Additionally, they can protect the primary glass in your windows against weather damage.

The average lifespan for a casement window is around 20 years, but some higher-end casement windows with more durable frame materials can last up to around 40 years before you need to replace them. You’ll need to carry out routine maintenance and window cleaning—and, on occasion, casement window restoration—to extend the lifespan of your casement windows. But they tend to wear more slowly than windows with sliding sashes because the weatherstripping sees minimal friction.