You need tightly sealed, efficient, double-paned windows in your home to regulate temperature and keep your household comfortable, but many homes do not have them. Saying you need new windows is obviously far easier than forking over the cash necessary to replace the ones you have. Knowing if your current windows are in serious need of replacement is the first step in evaluating when you are going to take on this pricey home improvement project.

Watch the Bills

Keep an eye on your heating and cooling bills. Consider replacing your windows if you suspect they are allowing airflow in and out of the home and your energy bills are higher than average and the natural rise in energy prices due to inflation are not to blame. When your windows are not sealed properly the cool air gets out in the summer and the warm air gets out in the winter. This will cause your home to use more gas or electricity for heating and air conditioning, according to ImprovementWeb.com. Although replacing windows can be an expensive project, new windows will pay for themselves in the money you'll save on your monthly bills over a year.

Damaged Windows

A visual inspection of your home's windows may tell you if they are bad and need to be replaced. Check your windows for cracks in the wood around the panes of glass or for cracks in the panes themselves. Cracked windows are dangerous and become even more brittle in cold temperatures. If you have cracked or broken glass you should replace your windows as soon as possible.

Condensation Misconception

Condensation happens when a home has an excess of humid air inside. In these conditions, condensation will form on the coolest exterior wall in cold weather or on the warmest exterior surface in hot weather. In each case this is usually the window. Do not assume you have bad windows just because you see condensation. Having a tightly sealed home that is well insulated will actually trap more moisture inside and cause more condensation, according to Gorell.com.

Presence of Moisture

Condensation on your windows may also be due to excess moisture seeping in around poorly sealed windows. Inspect the wood around your windows carefully and see if there are signs of damage and rotting from the presence of moisture. When moisture is able to infiltrate the home via the windows, it can rot the wood and allow mold to grow on, or in, your walls. Mold can pose a health hazard to your family and the moisture itself can eventually cause serious structural damage to the home. Replace your windows quickly if you see that moisture is making its way inside the home.

Source:

Improvement Web: 10 Reasons to Replace Your Windows

Gorell: Understanding Condensation