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Replacing the windows in your abode is a major home improvement project that can cost several thousand dollars. Moreover, there is a chance that your current ones can be saved with a few small repairs. But how do you know if replacement or repair is the best option? Let's take a moment to discuss a few clear-cut signs that it's time to invest in replacement windows. They're Drafty While it is true that all windows let a little air inside, you should never feel a draft or breeze when standing in front of them. If you do, there's a good chance that something is seriously wrong with either the sashes or frames. Both of these parts can become loose over time, which often results in air infiltration. And while the do-it-yourselfer might immediately reach for the weather stripping to solve the problem, simply sealing it up is likely only a temporary fix. Why? Because gaps are often caused by structural issues that grow worse over time, simply sealing them up will not restore damaged materials to their original shape. They Don't Open or Close Properly When you struggle to pry a window open or to slam it shut, it's time to think about replacement. Why? Models that don't open or close like they used to have serious balance issues that make them potentially dangerous. If you were, for instance, to open a seriously unbalanced glass unit, it could slam shut at any moment - quite possibly on someone's hand! Your Energy Bills Are Rising Heat loss and heat gain are major issues in old homes with rickety windows, and these problems can add anywhere from 10 to 30 percent increases in your monthly utility bills. Replacement windows are your only option because repair is impossible when models offer insufficient insulation. In fact, it will almost certainly be less expensive to simply replace these features than to try to update them by making them more energy efficient. They're Always Foggy Unless you own a historic home, odds are you have models with at least two panes of glass. Far more energy efficient than single-pane models, these units are nonetheless far from fail-proof. One of the most common problems owners report is fog or condensation inside the glass. When this happens, it may be necessary to replace the entire window, since the problem is often caused by seal failure. In other words, the insulated glass is no longer serving its primary purpose because air is making its way inside. Final Thoughts Although replacement windows can be an expensive home improvement project, it is often the only option when any of the aforementioned issues is observed. The good news is that you should be able to save a substantial sum if you can handle the installation on your own. Of course, you should only undertake the task if you have some experience on projects of similar size and complexity. When seeking replacement windows, Syracuse, NY residents can learn more by visiting http://www.energysaverscny.com/Windows.html.
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