5 Telltale Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windows

14th March 2024

Your windows don't have to be hanging off their hinges to be past their prime.

Many signs that your windows need replacing can be hard to spot just by looking at them, making it easy to miss when they've reached the end of their lifespan. But the cost of putting off replacements for too long can be higher than you think.

Alimax's specialists have been supplying windows across the South for years, so we know all about the importance of having the right ones for your home. Below, we'll explore the 5 key warning signs that it's time to replace your windows and the potential costs of not doing so.

But first, let's look at how often you should replace your windows in general.

How Often Should You Replace Your Windows?

It's hard to give an exact answer to this, as a lot of different factors have a hand in influencing how long your windows will last. On average, however, windows can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years.

Here are some of the factors that affect how often you need to replace your windows:

• Material: Most window frames are made from timber, uPVC, or aluminium. Aluminium and uPVC windows tend to last the longest (around 30 to 50 years) while timber windows may not last quite as long (around 20 to 30 years, depending on maintenance).
• Climate: Harsh weather conditions, such as in coastal areas, can take a toll on windows and shorten their lifespan. Windows in milder climates tend to last longer.
• Installation quality: Proper installation and sealing are crucial. Well-installed windows that are properly sealed will outlast those that were poorly installed or not sealed correctly.

What Are the Main Signs Your Windows Need Replacing?

1. Visible Damage

This one's pretty obvious, but still worth watching out for. Even small cracks, chips, or warps in your windows are signs that they are reaching the end of their lifespan. They'll make your home less energy-efficient and more susceptible to leaks, which can lead to higher energy bills, damp conditions, mould, and (in the case of timber windows), rot.

Dry rot is an especially big problem to watch out for, as it's a damaging fungus that can quickly spread from your windows to other areas of your home, putting the structure itself at risk.

2. High Energy Bills

High energy bills can be caused by more than just damage. Many older windows don't meet contemporary U-value standards, meaning they'll let out more heat during the winter than their modern counterparts. If your energy bills seem too high for a house of your size, swapping out your old windows for newer ones is a great way to slash costs.

3. Difficulty Opening or Closing

Struggling to open and close your windows? It could be a sign of worn-out mechanisms or damaged frames. This can be more than a little frustrating - you don't want to fight just for a bit of fresh air! - but even worse, it can pose a serious security risk. Windows that don't lock properly make easy targets for break-ins, especially if they're on the ground floor or otherwise easily accessible from the outside.

4. Persistent Condensation

If you notice condensation building up between the panes of your windows, it's usually an indicator that the seal is broken. This allows moisture to enter your home, bringing with it the same risks of damp, mould, and rot as physical damage would. It also reduces the insulation of your windows, leading to higher energy bills and less warmth inside during the winter months.

5. Drafts and Noise

When it's windy outside, being able to feel drafts around your closed windows, see your doors rattling, and hear outside noises clearly are surefire signs that the window seals or weatherstripping are failing. These issues can have a big impact on your home's comfort and energy efficiency for many of the same reasons listed above.

Upgrade Your Home with Sleek Aluminium Windows from Alimax

If you've noticed any of the warning signs listed above, it's probably time to invest in new window replacements for your home. Luckily, you're already in the right place!

Alimax is the go-to choice for made-to-measure aluminium windows in Dorset and Hampshire. Each of our windows is available in a wide variety of designs, colours, and configurations, and is built using advanced manufacturing techniques and materials. They meet the highest standards of energy efficiency and security, and are durable enough that you won't need to worry about replacements for decades to come.

Not enough reasons yet? Here are just some of the many other benefits of choosing us:

• Our lead times start from as little as 10 days.
• We'll keep you updated at each stage of the manufacturing process, so you're never left in the dark.
• We supply windows up to 7x3 m fully assembled for easy installation.
• Should any issues arise, we'll provide a solution within the same or next day.
• Our rates are some of the most competitive in the South!

Let us give your home the stunning new windows it deserves. Get a quote online or call us on 01425 205465 today!