The thought of replacing your outdated windows might seem like a significant investment, but what if the real expense is in keeping the ones you have? (Spoiler alert: it is.)
Here at WinPro Doors & Windows, we understand that window replacement can feel incredibly overwhelming. We work with clients every day by listening to their needs, talking to them about their options, and discussing the associated investment. If replacing windows at home was an easy decision, our clients wouldn’t need us—and you wouldn’t be reading this article.
As overwhelming as it may seem, we know that the real cost lies in doing nothing about outdated windows. There are hidden expenses that can silently drain your finances and compromise your home’s comfort and security, and you may not even realize it’s happening.
What Qualifies as an Outdated Window?
Before diving into the costs, let’s define what we mean by an “outdated window.”
It’s more than just aesthetics; it’s about performance and efficiency. Generally, windows that are 15-20 years or older are considered outdated, especially if they are single-pane, show signs of wear like warped frames, sticky sashes, or compromised seals leading to condensation between panes.
Even newer windows, if poorly installed or made with subpar materials like low-quality vinyl or thin aluminum, can quickly become “outdated” in their energy efficiency and protective capabilities, failing to meet modern performance standards.
The Hidden Costs of Keeping Old Windows
Ignoring the signs of outdated windows can lead to a cascade of problems and expenses you might not even be tracking. Below we’ve addressed some of the most common.
Strained HVAC Systems: The U.S. Department of Energy reports that windows are responsible for as high as 30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. That means insufficient or outdated windows can cause your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to work overtime trying to compensate for the significant energy loss. This constant strain not only hikes up your energy bills but also leads to premature wear and tear on your expensive HVAC equipment, potentially requiring costly repairs or even early replacement.
Soaring Electric and Gas Expenses: Are your utility bills surprisingly high, especially during the extreme Dallas-Fort Worth summers and winters? Outdated windows are often the prime culprits, acting as energy sieves. They allow your conditioned air to escape and outside air to infiltrate, forcing your HVAC system to work harder and longer, as mentioned in the previous section, directly translating to higher monthly electric and gas expenses for your family.
Compromised Overall Comfort for Families: Beyond the financial drain, outdated windows can turn your home into an uncomfortable living space. Drafts, cold spots in winter, and hot spots in summer make it difficult to maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature throughout your home, regardless of how high you crank the AC or heat. Your family deserves a comfortable sanctuary, not a battleground against the elements.
Increased Dust and Allergens: Old windows often have deteriorated seals and loose frames, creating tiny gaps that allow more than just air to enter. They become easy entry points for dust, pollen, and other outdoor allergens, impacting your indoor air quality and potentially exacerbating allergies and respiratory issues for your family members.
Fading of Furniture, Carpet, and Window Coverings: The sun’s powerful ultraviolet (UV) rays can penetrate standard glass in older windows without adequate protection. Over time, this constant exposure can lead to the irreversible fading and damage of your valuable furniture, carpets, hardwood floors, artwork, and window coverings, diminishing their appearance and lifespan.
Lack of Security Against Break-Ins: Outdated windows and doors are often the weakest links in your home’s security. Old locks, flimsy frames, and single-pane glass offer minimal resistance against forced entry, making your home a more vulnerable target for break-ins. Investing in modern, high-quality Pella® windows from WinPro means gaining peace of mind with advanced locking systems and durable construction designed to enhance your family’s safety.
Invest in Comfort, Efficiency, and Security with WinPro
Don’t let the “cost of doing nothing” continue to impact your family and home. Upgrading to high-quality, energy-efficient Pella® windows, exclusively offered by WinPro Doors and Windows, is a smart investment that pays dividends in comfort, energy savings, and security.
We serve homeowners in cities across Dallas-Fort Worth, and we’d appreciate the opportunity to learn more about your needs.
Contact WinPro Doors and Windows today for a free consultation and estimate. Let us help you transform your home into the comfortable, efficient, and secure sanctuary your family deserves.
