How Long Do Windows Last? Your Window Replacement Guide

Sometimes it’s easy to know when you should replace a feature in your home and when you need to consider a project like a window replacement. Drafty winds that sneak past a dilapidated door or a water heater that can’t keep up with the demands of your family may indicate replacement is necessary.

Failures in various features of your home may also indicate some time spent remodeling could fix the issues. When it comes to windows, there are a few solutions for the problems that may start to occur when your windows are too old or have begun to show their age with drafts and breakage.

Do Windows Really Last a Lifetime?

The price you pay for your new windows will tend to influence the likelihood of the windows lasting for ten years or fifty years. However, even expensive windows can begin to show their age if they’re not cared for over time.

The wild swings in temperature that occur in Wisconsin mean that the materials that hold the windows in place will degrade over time. Even if your windows aren’t at a point where full window replacement is necessary, it may still be necessary to have some work done.

According to a graphic published by This Old House, a home’s windows can last anywhere from 26 to 50 years. Similar life spans may be seen with screen doors. If the windows on your home have reached an age of several decades, seeking replacement might be the best answer.

For windows, This Old House suggests:

“Aluminum windows are expected to last between 15 and 20 years while wooden windows should last upwards of 30 years.”

On doors, This Old House also shares:

“Exterior fiberglass, steel and wood doors will last as long as the house exists, while vinyl and screen doors have a life expectancy of 20 and 40 years, respectively. Closet doors are expected to last a lifetime, and French doors have an average life of 30 to 50 years.”

Why is Window Replacement a Good Idea?

You may assume that remodeling or renovating your current windows and repairing features like the weather-stripping will offer plenty of additional years of use to your windows, but advances in technology have given new windows an edge over old windows for energy efficiency.

You may wish to ask your contractor whether it’s a good idea to replace your windows, or whether some remodeling work or targeted upgrades may serve you best. Often, the basic age of your windows will reveal much about whether replacement is necessary or not.

Your decision might not come down to the literal price of your windows, but rather of the likely savings you may get to enjoy in the future after your window installation is complete. You might be paying a lot extra in utility bills with your current windows. New windows could help you lower your energy consumption.

Window Replacement Benefits Beyond Energy Savings

Acting like a responsible homeowner where you focus on reducing your home’s energy consumption can make you feel like a superstar, but you shouldn’t forget the positive impact on your home’s value and appearance that new windows can make. You might not even realize how much of a change you can make in your home’s appearance with the simple act of replacing the windows.

Windows are an excellent place to start if you’re interested in modifying the style of your home. While it might be difficult to transform a Victorian house into an ultra-modern home without some serious remodeling, the windows you choose can create a fresh, clean look for virtually any home. They’re an excellent investment whether you plan on staying in your home, or you’ll shortly find yourself putting the house on the market.

Window Replacement: The Bottom Line

If you’re thinking about replacing your windows, there’s a good chance you’ve noticed something wrong with them (perhaps they’re letting in cold air in the winter, even when they’re closed). While windows may have quite a variance in their lifespans, you definitely don’t need to abide by the “book” when it comes to replacement.

If your windows were rated for ten years and they’ve lasted 40, you or the other families who have owned your home have clearly taken care of them. On the other hand, if your windows are rated to last 20 years, and they’ve become drafty monsters after just 10, window replacement could be in your future.

Want the Best Advice on Window Replacement in Wisconsin?

Is it time to replace your home’s windows in Appleton, Fond du Lac, Janesville, Stoughton, Madison, Oshkosh, Waupaca, Wausau, Wisconsin Dells or Baraboo, WI? Want to know whether your windows have a winter left or whether it’s time to upgrade? Contact AHT Wisconsin Windows today for a Free No Obligation Quote or call 1-866-367-6560. Interested in more information before you choose your contractor?