How to Know When It’s Time for an Old Window Replacement

Even the best, highest-quality windows eventually degrade. Whether from wear and tear or the passage of time, your Blue Ridge home’s windows might begin to warp, crack, or fade – not to mention let occasional drafts in (a big concern in the chilly winter months – brr!).

Knowing when and how to replace old windows is important, especially if you want your house to be as comfortable and appealing as possible. Today, let’s explore both the signs that it’s time for old window replacement and some things to keep in mind to avoid headaches!

When to think about replacing old windows

Everyone knows that home windows have to be replaced sooner or later. But when?

Depending on the frame material (vinyl, aluminum, etc.), glass quality, and previous installation, a given window can last anywhere from five years to 40 years or even longer. But you can usually tell that a replacement is needed ASAP if you notice signs like:

• Cracked, warped, or broken pieces around the window’s frame
• Major cracks and damage in the glass or stains you can’t remove
• A draft near the window that persists even if you repeatedly try to plug it up

Of course, if you roll up to your driveway and notice that your windows are the least aesthetically appealing part of your property, it might be a good idea to swap them out with new ones. Curb appeal is good for your personal pride and the future resale value of your Blue Ridge home, and make no mistake – windows can have an outsized impact on it! Great-looking replacement windows will make your home look fantastic, while faded or dilapidated ones will have the opposite effect.

Key tips for old window replacements

There’s a lot to think about when you start your old window replacement project. If you’re not sure where to start, or if you just want to ensure you don’t make a preventable mistake, consider these five key points.

1. DIYing? Get your tools together

Every DIY project needs a handful of effective tools so you can get the job done. When it comes to replacing old windows, these tools include:

• A utility knife and/or prybar
• A set of standard pliers
• A caulking gun
• A hammer
• A paintbrush
• Slip-joint pliers
• A drill and drill bit
• A handsaw (sometimes a reciprocating saw, too)
• Nails
• Caulk
• Either wood putty or filler
• Paint
• At least one new window, of course!

Most of these materials can be purchased at a home improvement store if you don't have them already.

2. Measure window frames very carefully

It won’t do you any good to purchase new windows if they aren’t sized properly for your existing window frames! So it’s vital that you measure the frames carefully – that way, you can order replacement windows in the correct dimensions.

To accurately measure your window frames:

• Measure the inside width of the window frame from jamb to jamb in three places – across the top, middle, and bottom. Once you have these, write down the smallest of the bunch.
• Then, measure your frame's height from the top of the windowsill to the underside of the head jamb. Again, do this in three places, including at the left jamb, at the right jamb, and at the middle jamb. Record the smallest measurement once more.
• Now, it’s time to check the squareness of your window frame. You can do this by measuring the diagonals of the frame from corner to corner. Both dimensions should be the same. If the frame is out of square by more than ¼ of an inch, it might need to be adjusted by a professional.
• Lastly, take an angle measuring tool to determine your sill’s slope. This is important because some window replacements will come with sill angle choices, while others won’t.

Gathering all this information will make your hunt for the best replacement windows easier than ever, as only some models will fit your frame’s existing dimensions.

3. Choose between full-frame or pocket replacement windows

Replacing old windows means choosing between two different replacement types: full-frame replacement windows or insert or pocket replacement windows.

Full-frame windows, as you might guess, are meant to replace your entire existing window all the way down to your house frame. These are needed if the frame is bent or misaligned to some extent. But keep in mind that installing a full-frame window takes a lot more time, effort, and experience than installing a pocket replacement window since you’ll need to cut down the frame, remove the jamb liners, and more.

Pocket replacement windows, on the other hand, are meant to replace existing window sashes with smaller, newer windows that perfectly fit within your home’s existing frames. These are easier to install, but they do require your old window frames to be both sized properly for the new windows and in good condition. As a result, pocket replacement windows may not always be the best replacement windows for old houses, so consider carefully before beginning your old window replacement project.

You’ll know which replacement windows you’ll need to install by the time you’re finished with the measuring steps described above!

4. Consider window materials and attributes

Before choosing the new windows that you want to replace your old ones with, do some research into window materials, types, sizes, and other attributes.

For instance, vinyl replacement windows are popular picks among Blue Ridge homeowners thanks to their cost-effectiveness, durability, and energy efficiency. Wood windows are also popular, though they require more maintenance work.

Energy efficiency itself is another thing to consider; quality, energy-efficient windows with two or three panes of glass will reduce your energy bill and make your home much more comfortable in the summer and winter months. Look for windows that are ENERGY STAR-certified to maximize your energy savings.

If you're already replacing old windows in your house, it makes sense to install high-quality ones to enhance your investment.

5. Remember – you can call in the experts for your old window replacement!

Our last tip for your old window replacement is to simply remember that you don't have to install replacement windows by yourself if you don't want to or don't have a lot of experience. Truth be told, calling installers could save you money in the long run since professional window installers aren't likely to choose the wrong windows for your home, make mistakes with installation, and so on.

That’s especially true if you work with Window World’s experts. If you have questions, need help finding the best replacement windows possible, or just feel more comfortable having trained professionals tackle installation, Window World of the Blue Ridge is ready and able to help. Contact us today!