What is a “Window Lifespan” and What Does it Mean as a Homeowner?

Nothing lasts forever. Most of us are aware, for example, that we will someday need to replace our tires since the tire treads will wear away. We’re aware that we’ll need to replace our guitar strings because there is only so much stress they can take before they also start to deteriorate.

But what about windows? Why do windows have a lifespan? Shouldn’t the glass be expected to last forever?

The Lifespan of a Window

The definition of a window lifespan is fairly straight forward. The “lifespan” of windows refers to the duration during which they can effectively function before they are likely to require replacement, or would benefit from replacement.

Unless they are hit with a hammer, windows are rarely going to urgently require replacement. The glass should still work and the windows should remain in place. But after the window lifespan – which is typically around 15 to 30 years depending on the materials and window installation approach – they’re going to operate at a diminished capacity.

That means they’re going to:

• Require more maintenance.
• Lose their energy efficiency.
• Reduce some of their functionality.

Window technology has also been improving considerably, so one can imagine that the windows from 30 years ago are not nearly as functional and as the windows from today, and the windows 30 years from now are likely to be similarly less functional.

Still, windows are an investment, so it can feel a little disappointing that windows have a “lifespan” at all. Yet there is good news. The windows of today are far more durable – when installed correctly – than the windows of the past. The actual longevity can vary, however, based on factors that include:

• Material Quality – This is the most important factor in window longevity. The types of materials used in the window frames and panes significantly affects durability. For instance, vinyl and fiberglass windows tend to last longer than those made from wood, which may suffer from issues like rot and warping.
• Installation Quality – Proper installation is critical to ensuring the longevity of windows. Poorly installed windows can lead to problems such as leaks, drafts, and uneven wear. This one of many reasons it is so important to find an experienced and trustworthy window contractor.
• Environmental Conditions – Exposure to severe weather conditions, such as extreme temperatures, heavy rain, and high winds, can accelerate the aging process of windows.

It should also be noted that regular maintenance can extend the life of windows. Simple actions like cleaning the frames, sealing leaks, and repairing minor damage can prevent larger issues that might necessitate earlier replacement.

How Do You Know if Your Window is Nearing Its End?

Unless they break, windows are not going to tell you that they’re nearing their end. Many people can go for years with windows that would strongly benefit from replacement without even knowing it. Some of the signs include:

• Drafts and Leaks – If you start feeling drafts coming from around the window frames, or if water leaks in during rain, this can indicate seal failure or frame deterioration.
• Difficulty in Operation – Windows that are difficult to open or close, or that do not stay open, may have balance issues or could be warped, both of which are signs of aging.
• Condensation Between Panes – Double or triple-pane windows that show condensation inside the panes are likely experiencing seal failure, reducing their insulative properties.
• Visible Damage – Any signs of decay, such as rotting wood, chipped or faded frames, or cracked glass, suggest that the window’s effectiveness is compromised.

Installation quality, of course, is also likely to make a difference here, as well as installation type. For example, full frame new construction windows installed correctly and well maintained can last 20 to 40 years or more. Retrofit typically has about 5 years fewer (because of the installation style), so you can estimate between 15 and 35 years.

It may even be that these new windows last even longer, as well, as they are made with materials that typically avoid decay. But it is not clear, as this new technology has not been around long enough to truly test for longevity.

Is It Time for New Windows?

Windows now last longer than ever. But windows from 10-20 years ago likely do not. The technology was different and, even if the windows are still in great condition, the energy efficiency is typically worse. Here in the Sacramento area, where the heat can be unbearable during summer, this can lead to many, many problems.

Address your windows today by contacting California Energy Consultant Service.