There are many people who have no idea how old the windows in their home are, making it difficult to understand when they might need to be replaced or maintained. Windows can typically last up to 20 years before requiring replacement, though like other home maintenance issues, problems can arise at any time. While built to last, it’s important to be able to identify some of the most common signs that you might need to replace your windows.

In the process, it’s always a good idea to set aside some savings to make window replacement possible, much in the same way you would do for other important home maintenance projects like a roof replacement. Here are some of the most common ways to know if you need to replace your windows in the near future.

**Drafts are the most common sign of a deteriorating window
**Perhaps the most noticeable sign that you need to replace your windows is the presence of drafts around your windows. If you can feel cold air bleeding through around the window frame or hear the sound of wind whistling through the window, there’s a very good chance your window has a draft. While these issues can often be repaired by a window maintenance professional, significant drafts may require a full window replacement. Failure to address these issues will result in cold air leaking into your home during the winter months, causing your heating system to work overtime to keep your home comfortable, and in the process sending your utility bills spiraling out of control.

**Single pane windows are long outdated
**If your home still has single pane windows, it’s a good idea to replace them as soon as possible. Single pane windows have long been an outdated window type, providing little insulation and almost no soundproofing, meaning cold air and noise can almost freely enter into your home. Add in the fact that single pane windows have almost no energy efficiency, and it quickly becomes clear why so many homeowners have ditched these outdated windows. When it comes time to replace your windows, it’s highly recommended that you seek out double or triple-glazed windows for increased energy efficiency and soundproofing.

**Increasing energy costs
**While this isn’t a sign that you’ll notice physically, you’ll certainly notice it when your heating bill comes due. Increasing energy costs are often caused by drafty windows letting the cold air in and causing your furnace to work harder than usual to keep warm air inside your home. This also happens during the summer months with your air conditioning system. When you consider the amount of energy and money being wasted on high electricity and heating bills, it’s easy to see why you should redirect the money from your bills to replacing those old drafty windows.

**Build up of condensation and moisture
**Seeing condensation on your windows occasionally is a pretty common phenomenon, but frequently noticing large build ups of condensation, moisture, or frost on your windows means that there’s a significant issue. Usually, heavy and frequent build up means that your windows are in dire need of replacement, going far and beyond the normal condensation caused by the warm air from your home meeting the cold glass surface. Moisture means that the airtight seal found inside your windows is broken and that the window needs to be replaced. Unchecked moisture build up can cause problems with your home, affecting the window frame and the area around it and possibly even creating ideal conditions for mould growth.

Old and failing windows are a problem that should be addressed as soon as possible in order to avoid high utility bills and ensure your year-round comfort. Unfortunately, many cottages come with windows much older than 20 years. If you’re planning on using your cottage year-round or during the winter months, it’s highly recommended that you invest in new windows to make your stay more comfortable during any season.

Muskoka Window & Door Centre is the region’s leading provider of high quality windows and doors. For decades, our experienced team has worked closely with Muskoka cottage and home owners to determine the best course of action for window replacement, window and door maintenance, and new construction projects. To find out more about the wide range of energy efficient windows and doors found in our showroom and how they can transform your home or cottage, reach out to us today.