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How Can You Tell If You Need New Windows? | Oahu, HI

How Can You Tell If You Need New Windows? | Oahu, HI

Photo By krblokhin at istock

It may be time to replace your windows. If you live in Oahu, HI, Sunburst Windows can help you pick the best new windows for your home. They serve many locations in Oahu and offer services on Maui.

Just like your roof or your fixtures, windows don’t last forever. The sun, elements, and general wear and tear take a toll. On average, double-glazed windows can last 15-20 years from the time they’re installed. Depending on what you pick and how well it’s installed, this can change a bit. But how do you know when it’s time to swap them out for new ones?

They’re looking worn out

Taking a look at your windows instead of through them can give you all the indication you need. If there’s rotting by the panes or they’re warped, it’s time to look into getting new windows.

On Oahu, your windows get exposed to high levels of UV rays, and catch a lot of salt from the air. This leads to warping and corrosion, shortening the life of your windows. When this happens, it affects not just how well your windows can keep the elements out. Your energy bill can go up.

Your energy bill is getting higher 

When your windows get older, they can’t do their job as well. They’re not just for looking pretty and keeping rain out. They serve a valuable purpose for your home when it comes to your utility bills.

The U.S. Department of Energy says you can save between $126 to $465 per year by switching from single-pane windows. If you have an older home, single-pane windows were once a cheap, sturdy option. But they don’t insulate well. Double-pane windows hold up better and keep your energy bills down. For people living in warmer climates, like Oahu, that average jumps up to around $250 per year.

There are also other options, like specially designed energy efficient windows.

Your house isn’t as quiet as it used to be

 Windows help with the acoustics of a home. As much as they keep out rain and wind, they keep out noise. A good rule of thumb starts with standing next to your window on the inside. If you can hear noise coming from outside? You probably need new ones.

Windows degrade over time, and eventually won’t work as well as they used to. If you can’t hear yourself think over the traffic noise? The problem may be your windows.

If you have children or pets who don’t get along well with storms, this can also help their anxiety with thunder.

Your windows look dated

Windows are part of your home’s curb appeal. That influences its value, and can make the difference in having a house and a home that’s all yours.

New windows come in a variety of architectural styles, and seamlessly combine form with function. Want something more interesting? Need a little more space for a reading area or brightening up your living space? Check out adding bay or bow windows. If you already have them, be sure to check around the edges and see if it’s time to invest in new windows.

As far as adding value, homeowners tend to recoup about half of the direct cost of replacing windows into their home’s value. But over time, they pay for themselves in what you save in utility bills and maintenance costs. And windows that accent your home can add some wow-factor if you ever decide to sell your home.

Leaks and drafts

The obvious telltale signs? Your windows are leaking or drafts are coming past them. This is also where your home’s energy efficiency is going. Find a professional who can get new windows in your home, and, problem solved.

When it comes to leaks, that starts having effects on your home beyond the windows. If water gets between the window and wall, that can lead to mold and mildew. If there’s rotting, it can be dry rot. Like mold and mildew, dry rot is a kind of fungus, and can spread quickly if it’s not taken care of.

Keeping your windows maintained and getting new windows when it’s time goes a long way toward keeping your home safe. It also keeps you breathing easy.

Your windows won’t open and close like they should

If your windows are sticking or won’t open, it’s time to look for new windows. It’s not just an inconvenience, it can be dangerous. Windows are a vital escape route in the event of an emergency.

It can also be a sign that your windows weren’t installed properly to begin with. In some cases, the glass or uPVC can warp due to exposure to heat. If the windows are sticking, it’s expanding when heated, but it’s not contracting when it cools. Which means the frame itself may not fit right.

This may point to a settling foundation or general use or disuse. Any of these problems can be fixed by simply getting new windows fitted and installed.

It’s not just your living room windows

Installing new windows doesn’t just cover your living and bedroom windows. If you have glass in your entry door, or have sliding patio doors or french doors, those get the same kind of exposure. They also get more wear and tear from use.

Window technology has come a long way, and you’ve got a lot of options. Newer uPVC windows can hold up to the wind and rain even better and can double-pane uPVC can cut your energy use even more. There’s also the bonus of needing less long term maintenance. And that’s money you won’t be spending on repairs.

Talk with your window installation professionals to check out different kinds of materials and styles you can add to your home.

Ready to go?

Serving the Oahu, HI, area, Sunburst Windows has a wide variety of styles and materials to choose from. And their trained professionals can answer any questions you might have. Check them out here to take a look at what they offer and talk to them about what they can do for you and your home.

Location

905 Kalanianaole Hwy
#3207 Kailua, HI 96734
CT36100

Hours

M–F 8:30AM–4:30PM
Sat by Appt. Only

Call Now 808-427-1555