Are Your Windows Past Their Prime? How Much Energy Do Old Windows Lose?

Do you ever walk past your old windows and feel a draft or cold spot that isn’t felt throughout the rest of the house? Do they fog up on cold nights and develop “window dew?” Do your energy bills seem to go up each year? Between a lack of modern window advances and the wear and tear that can occur over the years, old windows can often reach a point where the energy you lose through them little justifies their existence in your home. In today’s blog, let’s discuss the problem with old windows and how much energy your home can lose.

How Often Do Windows Need To Be Replaced?

A good residential window typically lasts about 30 years. However, by good residential window, we mean triple-pane windows with durable frames designed to stand up to the elements for three decades. Double pane windows, which are more of the standard in today’s market, are expected to last for 20 years; single-pane windows are lucky to last longer than 10 years. It’s important to know what kind of window you have before you know if it’s too old, but generally speaking, if your window hasn’t been replaced in the past 30 years, it’s time to find a new one.

How To Know When It’s Time To Replace Old Windows

As your window begins to become worn down with time, you’ll start to notice signs that it might be time to replace them. Some of these signs will relate to the energy inefficiency of the old window, such as:

• Cold drafts near the window during winter or hot to the touch glass during summer
• Window condensation on the inside of the window
• Window frames that have begun to rot, swell, or warp
• Window glass that has become dark and grimy over time

Other operational signs that your window might be past its prime include:

• Difficulty opening, closing or locking the window
• Loud creaks when operating the window
• Cracks that have appeared in the window glass over time

If you notice any of these signs, you should start looking into replacement windows.

Energy Efficiency of Different Windows

Newer windows are always more energy-efficient than old windows, in part because they haven’t become worn down after prolonged exposure to the elements. However, new windows also have the benefit of recent advanced features designed to boost the energy efficiency of your windows.

For instance, in historic homes, the original windows are likely to be single-pane windows. Single-pane windows keep the outside wind out and when in good condition, will help to block pests, as well. But they often fall prey to heat loss, with indoor heat escaping out through the window in the winter and hot, stuffy air getting inside in summer.

It’s for this reason that double-pane windows were invented. With an extra pane of glass, these windows block heat from getting in or out, which helps to insulate the home. These are further improved by odorless, non-toxic gas fillings that slow the flow of air between each pane of glass. Double-pane windows reflect 90% of energy.

Triple-pane windows, however, take that a step further by reflecting 97% of energy. These are the most energy-efficient windows to date, especially when paired with energy-efficient window styles such as double-hung, casement, or slider windows.

When you’re ready to replace your old windows, Rescom Exteriors can help with high-quality triple-pane replacement windows Contact us today to learn more about our replacement window services or to get started with a free quote.