If you have just bought an older home, or you have lived in your home for many years, you might be starting to wonder if it’s time to replace your windows.
Just like everything else in a house, windows have a shelf life that will eventually run out. Typically, windows should last you at least 10 to 20 years, however, if the climate is particularly severe, you might need replacement windows in Toronto sooner.
But when should you replace your windows?
There are several signs that you might need to consider upgrading your windows, and if you notice any of these, you’ll want to be careful about what time of year you go about replacing them. We break everything you need to know down in our comprehensive guide. Read on to find out more!
Signs you might need replacement windows
Aside from an obvious break or serious structural damage, the signs that you might need replacement windows can be subtle at first, and only become more apparent over time. These might just become “normal” in your day to day life, but they are anything but. If you start to notice any of these, it’s time to replace your windows.
Drafts & cracks
Windows are not only supposed to offer light and ventilation, they are also meant to protect you from the outside elements. Particularly in Canada, effective seals against harsh winter chills is essential in maintaining a comfortable home. If you start to notice drafts, whistling, or obvious cracks in the frame of your window, it may be time to consider Toronto replacement windows. While some of these may just be cosmetic and can be solved with repairs, in many instances, this will require full replacement, especially if the windows are older than 10 years.
A spike in your energy bill
Another insidious sign that your windows are in need of some attention is an increase in your hydro bill. Windows that are functioning properly will create an effective seal from the outside temperatures, increasing energy efficiency and preventing your HVAC system from working too hard to maintain a comfortable climate. When your windows start to fail, air from outside will enter your home, and air from inside your home will escape. This leads to a transfer of temperatures that forces your HVAC system to use more energy to keep the temperature constant. This increase in energy usage may be gradual or rapid, depending on your window’s condition. Replacement windows in Toronto are typically extremely energy efficient and can save you thousands of dollars on your energy bill over the life of your new windows.
You’re renovating your home
A less serious but still relevant sign you’re in need of some fresh windows is if you are remodelling your home. Windows can dramatically alter the look and feel of a room, both inside and out. If you are going through an extensive makeover, you may find the windows you currently have do not suit the style and decor of your dream home. Replacement windows in Toronto are an ideal solution to help make your newly remodelled home sing. Clera Windows + Doors offers an extensive range of windows that are highly customisable including size, shape, configuration, frame material, and frame style. Whatever your ideal window solution, we’ll have exactly what you need.
You’re looking to add value to your home
Another sign it’s time to call for replacement windows is if you’re looking to add extra value to your home before putting it on the market. A new set of windows can add not only curb appeal and enhances aesthetics, they can also increase energy efficiency and interior protection. These are attractive qualities that buyers will certainly look for when considering a property. Replacement windows in Toronto can cost a few thousand depending on the job size, but have the potential to add tens of thousands in value to your home. This excellent return on investment makes replacement windows a no-brainer if you are looking to maximise your list price.
What time of year should you replace your windows?
So, you’ve decided that you need to replace your windows. They’re drafty, inefficient, or they just don’t mesh well with your new style. So when should you actually book in to get your windows replaced?
Unless it is an emergency, such as a particularly bad winter storm that has wrecked your windows, it is recommended to wait until spring or summer to get your windows replaced. Especially in Canada, winter can prevent installation through ice and snow build up, and make it too dangerous for installers to execute the work effectively. Additionally, replacing your windows during spring or summer will be less uncomfortable during periods when the windows are removed.
Clera Windows + Doors is the leading provider of replacement windows in Toronto. We specialise in custom made windows to suit any style and configuration, with the highest energy efficiency rating possible. All of our windows are made in house at our Ontario manufacturing facility using high quality materials that guarantee a long life. If you are looking for new replacement windows in Toronto, contact Clear Windows + Doors today.
