If you have lived in your home for a number of years, then it probably looks a bit shabbier than it once was. This is simply an unavoidable situation. It doesn’t matter how tough the materials are or how good the quality, everything has an expiration date.
This is particularly true for your windows. Although you may not pay too much attention to this particular feature in your home, it can often take quite a beating. Not only are they used every day but they also have to withstand the elements. In case you aren’t certain if you are due for some replacement casement windows, here is how to know for sure:
Is Your Energy Bill Too High?
It is only now that people are really beginning to appreciate the importance of energy efficiency. Climbing electricity prices means that you want to try and cut down on power usage as much as possible. Well, your panes can play a huge part in this.
See, older glass panes provide only mild insulation. Therefore, whenever the air conditioning or the heater is on, a lot of the cool or warm air can leak out. The system then has to work harder to maintain the proper temperature. Newer panes, on the other hand, are designed for energy efficiency. As such, they will provide excellent insulation.
Is There Condensation?
Take a moment to examine the glass panes around your home. Do you notice condensation gathering? Now, it is important to keep in mind that not all condensation is bad. However, if you can observe that condensation is being trapped between the panes of the glass, then you are going to need to make a replacement.
Understand, when this starts happening, it is an indication that the seals around the glass have failed. This puts your home at risk for leaks as well as reduced insulation. Opting for a new feature, though, will take of this problem immediately.
Is There Physical Damage?
Another thing to do is to walk around your house and open and close each of your windows. Check to see how smooth the functioning is. If the action is difficult or you have to make too much of an effort, then these elements are probably just too old. It will only be downhill from here.
The best solution is to upgrade to smooth functioning awning windows that will glide open with a gentle push. An added benefit of doing this is that you will also be able to make your home more secure as well!
Do You Live in a Storm Prone Area?
Is your home frequently battered by storms? If so, you can guarantee that your frames are taking quite a beating. This is true even if they are made from more durable materials. In case you have experienced a particularly brutal storm, you may just want to consider a replacement.
Keep in mind, with every storm, your frames undergo just a little bit more harm. Even if it isn’t noticeable, it can weaken the structure enough so that the next damage will be quite severe.
These points should help you to determine whether you need to make these renovations to your home or not.