When to Replace Your Windows

Windows play a critical role in the look, safety, and energy efficiency of your home, and there’s nothing like Nebraska weather to remind you of that fact. Inefficient windows can’t hold a candle to the dramatic and sometimes almost instantaneous shift in temperature. The fluctuations can take a real toll on older windows over time. Not only can replacing your windows better protect you from the elements and reduce the load on your home’s heating and cooling systems, but it can also give your home a fresh new look and a more cozy feeling.

But how do you know when it’s the best time for “out with the old, in with the new?” We explain this and more, including the benefits of wood, fiberglass, and vinyl frames, as well as pro tips for choosing the best options for your Nebraska home.

Cracks, warping, or rotting are the most obvious signs that your windows are no longer able to function properly. Not only does visible damage look bad, it can become a health hazard. Mold can irritate asthma, while pollen and ragweed entering the home through cracks and gaps make the indoors uncomfortable and unsafe for those with allergies.

Feeling a draft even when your windows are shut is a sign that they’re failing, whether it’s a result of age, damage, or improper installation.   When your window’s ability to insulate fails, your heating and cooling systems work overtime, which can drive up your energy costs—especially during the coldest winters and hottest summers.

Condensation building up between the window panes is another red flag. If your windows regularly seem foggy, it usually means that the window seals themselves have broken. There are easy steps to manage condensation, as long as the damage hasn’t become too advanced, which we discuss in a previous blog. Warped or cracked window frames, especially on older windows, can be a sign that they need replacing.

Windows should open and close with ease, and the inability to do so often means that your window is warped, broken, or was improperly installed. A window that doesn’t fully close or can’t lock is an open door to your home. Not only to drafts and allergens, but to intruders. Address loose or failing hardware immediately, not only for your comfort but for your security.

Your neighbors have a right to enjoy their property with barbecues, garden parties, and kids that laugh and play the whole day away. You have a right not to be woken up at 6am by the sounds and smells of it all. Properly functioning windows are the barrier you need to enjoy your home and your neighbors.

Age

Another easy way to figure out if its time to replace your windows is by assessing their age. The table below provides a clear representation of how window efficiency typically declines over time — and when homeowners should ideally plan for replacement:

Now that we’ve covered the warning signs of failing windows, let’s go over why frame material matters. The right kind of frame has a huge impact on how well your windows withstand extreme weather.

For example, replacing your old windows with wood, fiberglass, or vinyl window frames comes with several perks, especially here in the Midwest. Each is designed to hold up against extreme weather without the same warping, cracking, or rotting you may experience with older, outdated materials.

Vinyl windows are popular for many reasons, one of them being that they’re an affordable choice known for saving energy and needing little maintenance over time. Fiberglass windows are appreciated for their long-term durability and reliable insulation. Wood windows offer water resistance and durability, with a warm, classic appeal that looks beautiful with most home designs.

The best time to replace your home’s windows depends largely on the state they’re in.  The extreme nature of our summers and winters can make spring and fall ideal for window replacement, so that the installation process is more comfortable but also so your home stays at a stable temperature during the work.

If you’re dealing with drafts, condensation, or rising heating bills, then replacing your windows before winter hits is a smart move, for the same reason -replacing them before summer means less strain on your air conditioning system during the season’s intense heat.

However, if your windows are damaged beyond repair and aren’t working properly, then waiting for the ideal conditions stops being an option and becomes a necessity. Cracked glass, warped frames, or broken seals can negatively impact your comfort, safety, and energy expenditure. In these situations, immediate replacement is always recommended, no matter the time of year. The good news is that modern wood, fiberglass, and vinyl windows are quick and easy to install!

Replacing your windows is a smart investment that can transform your home and save you time, money, and headaches down the road. Wood, fiberglass, and vinyl options are perfectly suited to Nebraska weather, so whether you’re battling drafts, rising energy costs, or an outdated look, modern replacement windows can make all the difference.

At Pella Windows & Doors of Omaha and Lincoln, we have the state-of-the-art windows, cutting-edge hardware, and a design team to help you make the switch. And since we have some of the best warranties in the industry through our Pella Care Guarantee, your new windows are covered for years to come.

Schedule a free consultation today and learn more about how we can help you make the most out of your new installation with our premium selection of wood, fiberglass, and vinyl windows.