When people think about their windows, they think about cracks. Most of the signs that windows need replacing are more subtle and might go unnoticed for a long time. This is the case for many homeowners considering window replacement in Denver, Colorado. In fact, the subtle signs are the more concerning of the two. Most homeowners tend to notice signs of damage when their bills spike or moisture starts to appear in their home.
The climate in Denver is particularly hard on windows. Sitting at 5,280 feet, Denver receives 25% more UV radiation than sea-level cities. Beyond nighttime lows regularly dropping below 0 and afternoon highs well over 90, Denver’s metro area sees more hail than most homeowners expect. These factors really impact window durability, even when there appears to be no visible damage.
Here are 10 types of window damage that don’t even need a visible crack to show that a window needs replacing.
10 Signs Your Windows Need Replacing
1. Moisture or fog between window panes
A double-pane window with moisture trapped between the panes is a sure sign that the insulating gas has escaped. Moisture on the glass will not resolve the problem. The window is no longer thermally insulating.
2. Drafts that come back after re-caulking
If drafts remain after weatherstripping and caulking have been replaced, the window frames have likely begun to sag. This is a structural issue indicating the need to replace your windows in Denver, Colorado.
3. Mysteriously Increasing Energy Bills
Window inefficiencies mean your HVAC system has to work harder to reach the ideal temperature. Experts believe that poorly functioning windows cost homeowners between $100 and $300 per year due to energy waste. Potentially, several hundred dollars per year of your money is being wasted.
4. Stuck, Jammed, or Non-Locking Windows
Thermal expansion and contraction over time lead to distortion in window frames. If your windows won’t fully close or lock, your comfort is at risk, and so is your home’s security.
5. Cold and Hot Spots
If you can feel a temperature difference when standing near a window, there is a breakdown in the window’s thermal insulation. This is common in windows suffering from thermal fatigue and is most apparent in those exposed to direct sunlight.
6. Increased Noise
Higher levels of exterior noise are a good indication that the window’s seals are failing. This is most noticeable in windows designed to dampen exterior sounds.
7. Spongy Window Sills
Window seals will begin to fail, allowing moisture and dirt to leak into the window’s frame. This problem will spread to other areas of your home if you allow it to persist.
8. UV-faded or chalky window frames
Over time, UV rays can fade window frames. Window frames that appear faded are brittle and can break apart within the frame. This is a serious safety concern and can lead to break-ins. In addition, as soon as a surface begins to break apart, the structural integrity does as well.
9. Windows older than 15 – 20 years
If your windows are over 15 years old, they are probably past their lifespan and need to be replaced. Windows usually last between 15 and 30 years, but Denver’s climate can cause a window to fail in as little as 20 years. Salt air, temperature extremes, and intense UV rays can cause a window to fail.
10. Interior condensation on the glass surface in winter
If the window glass has interior condensation, the window is poorly insulated. Condensation also indicates that the window has a low-E coating, which helps protect the glass. Additionally, low-E coatings can degrade, and single-pane glass cannot provide sufficient insulation.
Don’t Wait for the Damage to Get Obvious
Window replacements in Denver, Colorado, are pretty predictable, but the cost of water damage and inflated energy bills from repairs caused by a window replacement that took too long will not be. If two or more items on the list apply to your home, it is time to call a professional.
A window replacement in Denver, Colorado, should be done with the climate in mind, as windows need to be UV-resistant and thermally insulated to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations. A window specialist can recommend UV-resistant, long-lasting materials and determine whether a repair is worth it or if a full replacement is needed.