Yes! The older your windows and doors are, the more money you’re losing in monthly energy bills. The shifting of your home that occurs over the years causes gaps and voids and replacing windows and doors reduces that heat loss, thereby saving you money.

According to Energy Star ratings and certifications, a vinyl window frame with a solid core mPVC construction is the most energy efficient on the market. Windows with a one piece frame are preferred because there is less potential for air leakage while also providing maximum visibility compared to a window with multiple panels that are put together.

A few signs…

1. You notice a fog, condensation, or moisture on your glass consistently. When the view through your window becomes hazy like this it usually indicates that a seal has failed.

2. Certain areas of your home become faded from where the sun enters the window. This could be furniture, carpeting, or even hardwood and it means you need to upgrade windows because your current models are allowing harmful UV rays to enter your home.

3. Your current windows are not rated for the new climate regulations. Colder climates require a higher ER rating to satisfy energy efficiency recommendations. Your windows are grandfathered in and a replacement isn’t mandatory, but just know the amount of energy you are losing by having these lower quality units installed.

Replacement windows are generally of higher quality than new build windows. This is because new home builders are looking to reduce their costs wherever possible. In order for a contractor to maximize their profits they will go with the bare minimum in terms of warranty, energy efficiency, and other building code regulations. The warranty on new build home materials and products is as low as 2 years whereas replacement windows are typically guaranteed for a period of between 15 and 25 years.