How often should you replace windows and doors?

Having a problem with a window or door in your home? It could be that they're letting a draught in, they're a pain to open or they've just seen better days. In this situation, you face a choice: will you get them repaired or replace them altogether?

Without guidance, it's not an easy choice to make. Both require an investment of time and money. But it's a choice worth getting right.

Well-fitted, well-maintained doors and windows aren't just important because they improve the comfort and convenience of your home. They also affect your energy efficiency, which in turn can affect your energy bills, as well as your home's carbon footprint and market value.

As with many things, it's best to repair rather than replace if possible. But sometimes, you don't have that choice.

Here, then, are eight telltale signs that you need to get your windows and doors repaired or replaced.

When to repair or replace windows and doors

1. They keep getting stuck

Life's too short to struggle with doors and windows. If WD40 doesn't do the job, it's time to get the professionals in.

2. Your energy bills are too high

If your windows and doors are energy-efficient, they'll keep the cold out in winter and the heat out in summer. Old window frames and door frames start to leak, meaning you'll pay extra on heating and cooling.

Of course, before you commit to a repair or replacement, you need to be sure that your windows are the cause of your high energy bills.

3. You feel a draught

If you feel a draught – sometimes accompanied by a whistling sound – it's time to take action.

Draughty windows and doors can be caulked or weather-stripped. If these methods fail, it's time to get them replaced.

4. The glass gets fogged up

Double- and triple-glazed windows have an air pocket between the panes. If a seal breaks, condensation can get trapped in this gap.

Without looking at the window or door in question, it's difficult to say whether it's best to repair the seal or replace the whole unit. Your best bet is to ask a specialist.

5. The wood is rotting

Got wooden frames? There's one big reason why wood isn't used much for frames anymore: it rots.

But, of course, it doesn't rot all at once. First, it gets soft and spongy. If you poke a wooden frame and it feels like this, consider getting it replaced – preferably with a more durable material.

6. You're suffering from noise pollution

If you've got single-glazed windows, you'll probably experience a lot of noise from outside, be it from traffic or neighbours.

Luckily, modern glass is much better at soundproofing. You can get double- or triple-glazed glass to reduce noise pollution or invest in some special acoustic glass if you're in an especially noisy area (or if it's you who's making a lot of noise!)

7. You want to give your house a facelift

If your doors and windows are showing wear and tear, you can easily get them repaired. And if you don't like the look of them altogether, a new set can give your home a facelift.

8. You want to increase your home's value

Did you know that replacing your doors and windows can boost the value of your home? It's not just a question of kerb appeal. Many buyers will pass on a property that needs substantial DIY work – so do it for them and make the costs back in the value added to your home.

Should I repair or replace my windows and doors?

This is the million-dollar question. For our money, you should get your windows and doors repaired if the glass is broken, if there's a single component that needs replacing or if the frames are made from expensive materials. In these situations, a repair job will give you the result you need at a cheaper cost than a replacement.

However, you should consider replacing them if:

• Your windows are getting towards the end of their lifespan (after about 15 years)
• You're spending too much on energy bills and you can't find another explanation
• You've got wooden frames that have started to rot
• The windows and doors can't be opened and shut with ease anymore

How can I avoid replacing or repairing my windows?

Prevention, they say, is better than cure – and it's true in the case of your home's windows and doors.

The best way to avoid getting them replaced or repaired down the line is to get them installed properly to begin with.

However, we realise this isn't always possible. So, if you're lumbered with bad windows or doors, your best bet is to maintain them regularly.

This involves monthly inspections for leaks, draughts, cracks and holes. Check the finish. If it's a wood frame, is there any softness or sponginess? And so on.

On top of this, make sure you clean them regularly. As with all cleaning, little and often is better than a frantic deep clean once every leap year. Debris can cause windows and doors to stick – so you may as well clean them regularly and stop this from becoming a problem.

Final thoughts

Sometimes, a problem with a window or door can be fixed, whether it's a DIY job or done professionally. But at other times, you're going to need to get the whole shebang replaced.

When you do, it's essential that you get a reputable installer on board. Going cheap or going on trust can result in a bodge job – a recipe for more time and money spent down the line.

Instead, work with a professional, experienced installer. They can talk you through your options and give you a transparent quote based on your needs, not theirs. The result? Windows and doors that function perfectly, look great and add to the value of your home.

Looking for a replacement window or door fitting service in West Yorkshire? Get in touch with Calder Windows today for a quick, competitive quote.