Did you know that about 25% to 30% of your home’s energy use is a result of heat loss and gain through your windows? When homeowners talk to us about replacement windows, they often ask if they need to replace all windows in their homes at one time or if they can replace them as needed over time.
Truthfully, the answer is that it depends. Below, we’ll take a closer look at when you should do a total window replacement project vs when it’s best to replace them one at a time, so you can better plan your project.
When It Makes Sense to Replace All Windows
There are a few signs that you’re better off replacing all of your windows at one time. For starters, if your home is more than 20 years old, for example, your windows are likely no longer very efficient, and there’s a bigger risk of experiencing issues with them in the near future. In that case, it’s better to install new ones all throughout your home.
Another thing to consider is your home’s curb appeal and overall aesthetic. If you’re interested in replacing a few windows around your home, keep in mind that you may not be able to find replacements that look exactly like you’re old ones. In that case, you’ll have slightly mismatched windows that may affect your curb appeal.
Similarly, if you replace your windows one at a time, you run the risk of the new model becoming discontinued before you have a chance to finish replacing all of them. If you’re worried about mismatched windows, it’s better to get them all done at the same time.
When It Makes Sense to Replace Windows One at a Time
Known as a “partial project,” replacing your windows one at a time makes sense when the majority of your windows are in good shape, but a few of them are giving you trouble. For example, if one window in your home is broken and no longer opens properly, you can replace just that one instead of doing a full-home replacement.
Or, let’s say you want to change the configuration of one window by adding a garden window to your home. In that case, you can replace a single window with a garden one, but you don’t need to bother replacing the other windows in your home at the same time.
Doing a partial project instead of a whole-house replacement is also useful if you’d prefer to make smaller payments for your windows. Even if you eventually need to replace all of your windows, you could break the project up and replace only a few at a time to stay within a smaller remodeling budget.
How to Tell If a Window Needs Replacing
So, how can you tell if it’s time to replace your windows? Aside from obviously broken glass, here are a few signs to pay attention to:
- Visible damage on the frame like rotting
- Difficulty opening and closing due to warping
- Drafts coming in through your windows
- Poor soundproofing, letting in noise from outside
If you notice any of these issues, call in the help of a window replacement expert, regardless of whether you plan to do a whole-home or partial replacement project.
Here When You’re Ready to Replace Your Windows
Whether you decide to replace all windows at once or you’d prefer to do a partial project, Semper Fi Roofing and Exteriors is up for the task. Our team of expert window installers will walk you through the different options we have and help you decide how to prioritize replacing your windows if you don’t want to do them all at one time.
Ready to take the next step? Request a free, no-obligation quote for your window project today.
