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Because they can often be repaired for a fraction of the price, most homeowners opt not to replace old windows when there's a problem. That decision may come back to haunt you if there are serious structural or efficiency issues. With that in mind, here are five signs it's time to call a home improvement contractor today. 1. Single-Pane Glass If your home was built before 1970, there's a good chance its original windows contained a single pane of glass. Inefficient and occasionally unsafe, these outdated models still survive in surprising numbers. If you have been delaying replacement because these ancient openings appear to be in working order, you should know that they are inferior to modern double- and triple-pane versions in many ways. First and most importantly, a single sheet of glass cannot possibly prevent a significant amount of heat loss during the winter and heat gain in the summer, which means a portion of your energy bills will go toward this glaring deficiency. It is also a fact that single-pane models are far more vulnerable to breakage than those with more layers. 2. Noisy Inside If you live in a city and/or on a busy street, chances are noise is a major concern. The problem will only be exacerbated if your home contains single-sheet models that do not provide enough acoustic insulation to keep the outside world outside. Replacing those old openings with dual-pane or laminated glass versions will reduce indoor noise levels to a significant degree. This quality of life issue should not be overlooked or ignored when making the decision to upgrade your openings. 3. Indoor Color Fade When exposed to sunlight on a daily basis, organic fabrics may lose their once-vibrant colors in no time. Carpet, furniture, window treatments, and artwork are all susceptible to ultraviolet rays (UV) that enter through certain windows. As you may have guessed, single-sheet models do the worst possible job of keeping direct sunlight out. According to some tests, they only block about 25 percent of damaging UV rays. By comparison, double and triple pane versions can reflect as much as 90 percent of them. 4. Drafts and Leaks Older windows with single sheets of glass are far more likely to let air out and water in than modern ones. The former problem leads to higher energy bills, while the latter one can result in big repair bills. The reason? Water intrusion is the number one cause of mold and mildew growth in U.S. homes. Often caused by loose glass or a weakened seal between the frame and the sash, the issue can cause serious water damage. Mold spores can also cause respiratory problems for people who suffer from allergies. 5. Bad Looking While function is arguably more important than form, windows still account for a significant amount of your home's facade. If they are unattractive and old, odds are you'd like to replace them with prettier modern models. We should also mention the new openings can enhance the curb appeal of your home, which may also increase its resale value. If you've noticed any of the aforementioned warning signs, it may be time to replace your old openings with new ones. When considering Cape Cod windows, residents visit Mid-Cape Home Centers. Learn more at http://midcape.net/mid-cape-home-centers-windows-doors.asp.
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