It’s no secret that replacement windows in MA can help save energy during the coldest days of the year. Whether we’re talking about the next polar vortex or something a bit milder, you can rely on quality and energy efficient windows to keep energy bills low.

However, when you’re living with old and outdated windows, insidious issues might be lurking right under your nose. These are some of the 3 common problems you’ll experience with old windows in the winter.

1. Winter Window Condensation

You go to look out the window to see the snow falling, but it’s covered in condensation. What gives?

Sweaty windows are normal to a point, even in the winter. However, it’s a problem when the condensation won’t go away. If you have old windows, this condensation can even damage your home. The condensation can build up on wood window frames and eventually cause mold and mildew growth. If neglected long enough, it can cause the frames to rot and damage the interior wall.

When you decide to get those rotted frames fixed, you can expect to pay up to $400 per window and sometimes more depending on the severity of the damage.

Replacing the entire window unit might be in your best interest since it’ll provide the benefit of improved insulation, lower energy bills, and provide a return on investment of up to 75%. New window installation also gets to the root of the condensation problem, such as poor weatherstripping or broken seals. Simply repairing the frames will not put an end to condensation.

2. Cold Drafts

Old windows are notorious for causing a drafty and uncomfortable home. It’s even more noticeable in the winter through January-March, when the average low temperature is between 22-31 degrees.

Why are so many old windows drafty? Here are a few of the most common culprits that are causing those wintertime drafts:

  • Worn-out weatherstripping: When weatherstripping becomes worn and frayed, it’s much easier for that cold air to come into your home. In fact, you can lose 10% of your home’s energy from bad weatherstripping. While you might think the fix is to simply replace the weatherstripping, this often proves as a difficult and messy process.
  • Leak in the window’s seal: The seal between the window panes is a vulnerable area for drafts. If the seal leaks, energy efficient gases argon, and krypton can’t insulate your home properly. This allows cold air to move right through the window’s glass, causing a chill right inside your home.
  • Poor Air Infiltration Ratings: In a climate like New England, we need our windows to be as airtight as possible. Replacement windows contain a CFM rating which measures the window’s ability to block out drafts. The most energy efficient windows in MA contain ratings between .12 and .3.
  • Incorrect Installation The truth is those winter weather woes aren’t exclusive to old windows. This is especially the case in terms of window installation. When a window is improperly installed, it’s easy for air leaks to cause energy bills to rise. This means you’ll feel drafts not only in the winter but warm air will make its way indoors during the summer.

Drafts cause a lot of discomfort and energy loss, but there is yet another winter weather woe you’re likely dealing with—skyrocketing heating costs.

3. High Energy Bills

This is the biggest indicator that there is a problem with the performance of your windows. The average American spends $2,200 on energy bills each year with over half of that going toward heating bills. Can you imagine what the average cost would be if everyone had old, outdated windows?

The trouble is that there are so many factors that play into the cost of your energy bills in terms of your windows. Weatherstripping, bad installation, broken seals: it all adds up!

The Right Way to Lower Winter Energy Bills

Get those old windows replaced with high-quality and energy efficient windows. Look for the following when choosing new windows for your home:

  • Energy Star certification.
  • Argon or krypton gas.
  • Premium vinyl frames designed to block out cold air.
  • Polyurethane foam-filled sashes for extra insulation.
  • Triple weather stripping and low-e glass.

Get New Replacement Windows in MA and New England

You’ll find the most energy efficient windows in MA right here at Coastal Windows & Exteriors! For your free quote, contact svanderbilt@mycoastalwindows.com and inquire about our winter promo!