Gorgeous winter weather can be breathtaking when snow blankets the landscape just outside your window. But if you feel the Minnesota chill seeping through your (closed) windows while you’re enjoying the vista, it’s likely time for either repairs or replacements.  Leaky windows make your home uncomfortable and result in increased utility bills as heated air makes its way out of your house and chilly air seeps in. Read on to discover the cause of drafty windows and understand when it’s time for new windows so you can enjoy a comfy, cozy home. 

Warning Signs Your Windows Aren’t Functioning Properly

You Feel a Draft Indoors

If you feel a draft or breeze coming through or around your window units, making your home different temperatures in various rooms, it’s time for replacement windows. If your interior isn’t comfortable inside like it should be, new windows can fix that—and preserve the life of your HVAC unit.  

Broken Window Seals 

When the seal between your panes of glass breaks and cold air gets inside, it can cause uncomfortable drafts in your home interior. Have your windows inspected by a reputable contractor, and consider planning ahead for new windows. 

Rattling Sounds 

The rattling sound you hear when the wind blows points to inefficient windows that cause drafts. It’s an indication you need new windows. 

Increased Utility Bills

If your energy use has increased, there’s a good possibility your windows are compromised. They very likely are letting hot air out and cold air in throughout the year. 

Window Damage

Take a walk around your home interior, and then your exterior, and inspect your windows one at a time. If they are damaged, there is likely a leak in them. Do you notice any holes, cracks, or places the frames are compromised? They should be replaced to fortify your home against air leaks (which can also become places water can seep in during other seasons of the year). 

Faulty Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping should be intact for your windows to perform optimally and form a tight seal when you close them. If your weatherstripping is old or worn out, cold air will make its way into your home through the gaps. Replace the weatherstripping to re-seal your windows shut. 

Condensation on Your Windows

If you notice condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning, that’s typically a sign of good insulation and not a reason to be concerned. However, if you notice excessive condensation on the inside of your windows, that could indicate issues like high indoor humidity or poor ventilation. Have your windows inspected by a reputable contractor if this is the case. 

Noise Intrusion

You shouldn’t be able to hear your neighbors talking from your home interior. If your windows allow a lot of outdoor noise to infiltrate your home, it’s likely they are old, drafty, and in need of replacement. 

Old Windows

When your windows become worn out due to their age, it’s likely time for new ones. Wear and tear over the years hinders your windows’ ability to do their job of protecting your interior from the elements, keeping moisture intrusion at bay, and blocking outdoor temperatures from invading your interior. Old windows can also be unattractive and decrease the value of your home.  Refresh your property with new windows and enjoy the many benefits they provide, such as enhancing energy efficiency, increasing curb appeal, improving your home’s security, and providing ease of use. Plus, your utility bills will go down!

How to Know It’s Time for New Windows 

1. Is it hard to open and close your current windows?

Windows are a safety feature of your home. After all, if you needed to get out of the house in an emergency, you’d need to be able to open them in a hurry. If you can’t open your current windows, they need to be replaced. 

2. Are your windows damaged or cracked?

Windows are an essential element in keeping intruders at bay. If you have a cracked window due to a fly ball from a nearby game, severe weather, or any other reason—it’s important to have a new window installed immediately so your home is secure again. 

3. Are your window frames showing signs of water damage?

When water penetrates window units, they can deteriorate quickly. You’ll notice signs of moisture intrusion like rot, mold, flaking paint, and deterioration. These are all signals that your windows aren’t doing their job and need to be updated. 

4. Do your current windows look dated?

Outdated windows leave your home looking lackluster and drab. Not only that, but if they are more than 15–20 years old, they have served their purpose and are likely not insulating your home like they should. Create eye-catching curb appeal with new windows. Modern windows have sleeker frames and give you greater views because they have more glass “real estate.” You’ll enjoy more natural light, expansive views, and a transformation of your home’s beauty—inside and out. 

Get Gorgeous New Windows to Enhance Energy Efficiency 

One drafty window can reduce your heating efficiency by up to 30%. Imagine the impact if you have multiple windows allowing cold air to seep indoors. If you have drafty windows and they need to be replaced, it’s essential that you have them installed by a reputable, trustworthy company (like us!) so you experience the long-term high performance they were designed to deliver. At Lutgen Companies, with over 10,000 people served, we believe that good relationships are built on trust. That’s why our sales reps are trained to diagnose true issues—not just sell the service or product.  We evaluate your project to make sure you get the right window product, color, and fit for your home. This ensures the materials chosen align with your preferences and your overall design vision. We offer wood, composite, vinyl, or fiberglass window installations. Learn more about how our window replacement services can enhance your home’s beauty while safeguarding it from the elements.