Hey everyone! I'm looking for advice on whether I should bite the bullet and replace my windows. Aesthetically, most of them look fine, but we have been dealing with some ongoing issues like drafts in several rooms, mold around the frames that keeps returning despite cleaning, a major window that has constant condensation, swollen seals on many panes, and even a slight air leak from our patio doors. I had an energy audit done, and all the windows scored below a 1.9 RSI value. I've also got a baby now, which makes me more cautious about mold. We qualify for a 10-year 0% government loan for upgrades and I'm thinking it might be smarter to replace them now since it doesn't look like the cost of materials will go down. However, we're unsure how long we'll stay in this house—could be anywhere from 2 to 10 years. I'm curious if anyone here has been in a similar situation and if replacing the windows now for comfort, health, and energy savings is worth it, or if I should just wait until we move.
3 Answers
Replacing windows is often a smart investment and one that you'll appreciate in the long run. I've got a house from 1917 with some original windows, and I know I need to upgrade. I've seen great options like vinyl for affordability, but if you want something nicer, Pella’s Impervia line offers good durability and efficiency.
Yeah, vinyl is a solid choice! I went that route for mine, and they look and work great.
Absolutely! Upgrading your windows not only can improve your home's energy efficiency, but it might also make it more appealing if you decide to sell later. New windows can seriously enhance comfort and help with health concerns like mold. Plus, given you're eligible for that government loan, it could be a great time to make the investment. Just make sure you don't lock yourself into a long finance term. That seems crazy!
Right? The financing sounds risky. Better to save up if possible and pay in cash.
Definitely! If you’re already dealing with drafts and condensation, it might be worth addressing sooner than later.
If the issues are getting serious, maybe just start with the worst window first before tackling the whole project. That way, you don’t overwhelm yourself or your budget. Tackle the worst problems first, then gradually upgrade the rest if you can.
Good idea! Start small. It might save some savings for other emergencies too.
Totally agree. Plus, you can see how much of a difference a single new window makes!
I work for Pella too—crazy discounts but I still find better deals sometimes elsewhere. It’s all about comparing!