When Do I Need to Replace My Windows?

Unfortunately, it’s not always obvious which window service you may need, and any issue with your home’s windows may bring up dozens of questions. If you’re feeling overwhelmed about when to replace your Ohio windows, don’t! The home improvement contractors at APCO are here to help.

How Often Should Windows Be Replaced?

In terms of an active lifespan for your windows, it will depend on the material your windows are made from; whether the windows are single-, double-, or triple-paned; and the quality of the window manufacturing. While many factors can diminish the lifespan of a window, here are some easy guidelines you can follow:

• Vinyl windows – A solid quality vinyl window should last roughly 20 to 30 years without needing to be replaced. Be aware, however, that lower quality vinyl windows that aren’t well maintained can last as little as 10 years.
• Wood windows – Wood windows, while often costlier to install, are an excellent option for both efficiency and longevity. A good wood window should last 30+ years with routine care, and they can often last much longer.
• Fiberglass windows – Because fiberglass windows don’t really warp and because they are highly resistant to most forms of damage or wear, they rate as some of the longest lasting window options. You should be able to expect 30 years of good service at a minimum, if not more.

Should I Repair or Replace My Windows?

If your window’s damage is more than purely cosmetic, and if the window is more than a decade old, then you may be better off replacing them. That said, you can hopefully trust your contractor, as they can determine which service is more cost-effective for your unique situation.

At APCO, we typically recommend window replacement when:

• Your home is currently using single-pane windows. These pre-1970s staples are highly inefficient and much less durable than double- or triple-paned windows.
• Your window is warped, dented, or cracked. Fixing these issues often requires dismantling the entire window frame. For the cost of labor and time, a replacement would be a better investment in the long run.
• Your current windows are a pain to maintain. If you find yourself in need of window repair frequently, or if your windows stick all the time, are hard to clean, or don’t mesh with the overall look of your home, replacement is a great option.
• You have double-pane windows that fog up a lot. Double-pane windows, also called IGUs (Insulated Glass Units), use multiple panes of glass and a tight air seal between them in order to provide an optimal barrier against heat loss and heat gain. If the seal between the panes begins to fail, the windows will accumulate moisture, which will make them fog up and will make the IGU deteriorate rapidly.

Can I Replace the Glass on a Broken Double-Pane Window?

Replacing the glass in a double-pane window is certainly possible, but not always advisable. We would say that, typically, replacing just the glass is fine if you are dealing with cracked or warped glass panes. It’s when the seal of the double-pane insulated window is damaged or broken that replacing the entire unit becomes necessary in order to restore performance.

In these cases, either the slotted IGU and the sash can be replaced, or, depending on the state of your window’s frame, you may be better off with full-frame window replacement.

Are you in need of window replacement experts near you in Columbus, OH? Connect with the trained professionals at APCO online to schedule a consultation!