Windows wear out gradually, so it is easy to get used to their problems. These signs can help you decide whether it is time to look at replacement.
Drafts you can feel
On a cold, windy day, hold your hand near the edges of the window and the sash. If you feel moving air, the window may have worn weatherstripping, gaps in the frame or a poor seal around the opening. Some drafts can be fixed with new weatherstripping or caulk. Persistent drafts from several windows may point to replacement.
Fog or moisture between the panes
Many modern windows have two or more panes of glass sealed together. If you see fog or condensation trapped between the panes, the seal has failed. The window loses much of its insulating value, and the fog cannot be wiped away.
Condensation on the inside surface of the glass is different. It is often a sign of high indoor humidity, especially in winter, and may not mean the window has failed.
Windows that are hard to open, close or lock
Windows that stick, will not stay open or do not lock properly are a comfort and safety concern. In some cases the hardware can be repaired. In others, warping or a shifting frame means replacement is the better fix.
Rot, soft wood or damaged frames
Press gently on wood sills and frames. Soft spots, peeling paint that keeps coming back or visible rot mean water has been getting in. Water damage can spread into the wall around the window, so it is worth checking early. A full-frame replacement lets the opening be inspected and repaired.
Single-pane glass
Older single-pane windows let much more heat escape than modern insulated windows. If your home still has them, replacement can make rooms more comfortable in a Michigan winter.
Outside noise
If traffic and neighborhood noise come through clearly, better-sealed windows with insulated glass can make the inside of your home noticeably quieter.
Fading floors and furniture
Sunlight can fade flooring, rugs and furniture over time. Many newer windows have low-emissivity coatings that reduce the ultraviolet light coming through.
Repair or replace?
One window with a broken latch or worn weatherstripping may only need a repair. Several windows with failed seals, rot or drafts usually point to replacement. If your home was built before 1978, replacing old window frames should follow lead-safe work practices.
Learn more about our window replacement process.
