40% of us are worried that we can’t keep our homes warm in winter.
If you’re one of the two in five people that feel that way, then one of your biggest concerns may be your windows. Old or outdated windows lack the energy efficiency that is offered by modern window designs.
Your energy bills aren’t the only reasons you should think about updating your windows, either.
Read on as we look at seven signs that it’s time to buy new windows.
1. Your Energy Bills Are Going Up
One of the most obvious signs that your windows need replacing is if your energy bills start to climb.
Of course, there may be other reasons for this. Your supplier may have increased their prices, or there may be other areas of your home that are not properly insulated. Once you’ve eliminated the other options, however, your windows may be the culprit.
This is especially true if you don’t have double glazing. Upgrading from single glazed windows to B category double glazing could save you as much as £1400 over ten years on your energy bills.
2. You Can Feel the Breeze
A sure sign that your windows need replacing is that you can feel cold air entering your home, particularly when you stand near the windows.
This can be especially noticeable in winter when your home is warm and cosy and it’s cold outside. The air entering your home will feel much colder to the touch.
All that cold air entering your home means that your heating has to work even harder to get your home up to the temperature you want it. That means more money spent on heating bills.
If you notice a breeze entering your home from around your windows, it’s time to upgrade.
3. They’ve Been in Place a Long Time
You may have had your windows for some time, but is it worth replacing old windows?
The answer is a resounding yes. Modern windows can last you for many years, but older windows have a much more limited lifespan. If you’ve not replaced your windows for some time, then the chances are that they’re getting less and less efficient.
You’re more likely to suffer from leaks and draughts, and you’ll almost certainly see your energy bills go up as a consequence.
If your windows have been in place for a long time, it’s definitely time to think about replacing them.
4. Condensation Between the Panes
Double and triple glazed windows will usually have an insulating gas trapped between the panes. This makes it harder for heat to escape through them.
If you notice condensation trapped between the panes of your window rather than on the surfaces, then this means your windows have sprung a leak. All that insulating gas will have escaped, which will lower the efficiency of your windows.
If you notice condensation in between the panes, then this is a sure sign that you need to get new windows if you want to keep the same level of insulation.
5. They’re Not Secure
Old fashioned sash windows often use a very simple fastening that’s not particularly easy to tighten. If you don’t tighten them properly, then there’s nothing to stop a potential burglar from lifting the window from the outside and getting easy access to your home.
Modern windows are much more secure as they can include key-locking handles that are simple to use as well as multi-point locking systems. In addition, double glazed windows are incredibly tough; it’s a real challenge to try to break them at all and impossible to do without making a huge amount of noise.
Modern windows come in sash designs, so you can keep the same look for your home without compromising your security.
6. They Don’t Keep out the Noise
Another big benefit of double and triple glazing is that it helps to keep out the noise.
If you live near a road, train line, or airport, this can make a huge difference to your quality of life. Single glazing offers very little noise reduction at all. If you have double glazing that’s getting older, you may notice that it doesn’t block out the noise as well as it used to.
By installing new double or triple glazed windows, you can help reduce the noise in your home significantly. That means you’ll find it easier to sleep at night, and you’ll be less disturbed during the daytime too.
7. The Style Is out of Date
If there’s one thing that can make your home look dated, it’s having old and tired windows.
Old-fashioned window styles really stand out, especially if the houses around you all have more modern styles. If your windows are ruining the curb appeal of your home, then it’s time to consider upgrading to modern windows.
You’ll be amazed how installing new windows can give the exterior of your home a new lease of life, turning it from looking old and tired to looking like a new home again.
Are You Ready to Buy New Windows?
If you recognise any of the signs on this list, then it’s probably time for you to buy new windows.
If so, then we’re here to help. We offer a wide range of uPVC windows in a variety of styles, including diamond leaded, square leaded, and Georgian. All our windows feature multi-point locking, are fully security glazed, and come in a choice of 14 different frame colours.
We also offer doors, conservatories, safety glass, and more.
Contact our friendly team today for a full quotation to buy new windows or get a quick quote with our instant calculator.