Whether you’re starting to think about selling your home or you’ve recently acquired a place that might need some fixing up, it’s important to be able to recognize whether your windows are in need of replacement or not.

It’s usually best to have some idea of what’s going on before you call a contractor. That’s why we asked our remodeling friends—specialists in Peoria replacement windows—for the top signs they recommend looking for when inspecting your home:

• Drafts. In the winter, do you notice a chill or find certain parts of your home colder than others? If your windows are letting air into your home, they are likely too old or damaged. Leaky windows not only make it harder for you to relax but can also drive your heating bills through the roof!
• Age. The average lifespan of an older window is about 10 years. Sometimes, a well-constructed window can last up to 20 years. But the bottom line is, if your home hasn’t had a window refurbishment in 10-20 years, it’s time to start seriously thinking about a replacement.

• Warping. Is your window difficult to open, or does it feel heavy? Warping, or changes in the size of the window frame or glass, tend to naturally occur over time, leading to a loss of energy efficiency and decreased ease of operation.
• Energy inefficiency. Have you noticed your energy bills going up from previous years? If you’re having to use more energy to heat or cool your home, the problem likely lies in your windows. Luckily, due to advancements in technology, the newest lines of windows are more energy efficient than ever!

If you’re dealing with one or more of the above issues, it might be time to look into a window replacement. We usually recommend hiring professionals, but if you’re up to the challenge, there’s nothing wrong with a DIY approach! But whatever you decide, make sure you do your research first. We hope you find the information in this post helpful. Happy remodeling!