How Long Do Windows Last on Average? Guide Homeowners

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(Newswire.net — January 8, 2022) —

Property maintenance is a necessary skill for homeowners. You have to keep everything in tip-top shape to preserve the value of your home. There’s one question that all homeowners should ask: how long do windows last?

Considering that a complete replacement can cost around $12,000 on average, it’s an important question to keep in mind!

Before you go through any unexpected pain with your windows, let’s have a quick read through some of the signs that a replacement might be in order.

How Long Do Windows Last?

This is a question that sort of has two answers. The first answer is with regards to the glass, the second with regards to the frame.

If you want a rough estimate for both, you’ll be looking at around a 20-year lifespan.

There’s leeway there, depending on the quality of the window. Cheap seals will break sooner, cheap frames will lose their finish sooner, and cheap glass will be less energy efficient.

The climate and weather also play a role here.

When Do Panes Become Painful?

The real reason for the 20-year lifespan is the windowpane since the glass is the most susceptible to wearing down.

It’s also good to keep in mind that 20 years might be a generous answer. Most of the higher-end windows will guarantee a warranty of roughly that length. Cheaper options could have you looking at 10-15 years, though.

You would be recommended not to go with any windows that have a shorter guarantee than that, no matter how cheap they are.

A Long-Lasting Frame

The frame is a little more consistent. Vinyl will last a decent amount of time, usually more than 20 years. You also have a choice of aluminum frames, which may as well come with a lifetime guarantee.

Wood is the more unpredictable material.

Left to its own devices, wood will rot, peel, and decay. The problem with that kind of damage is that it can very quickly become irreversible. You will get stuck with a damaged frame in a short period.

Maintenance can subvert much of those issues, but unfortunately, the health of a wooden frame also relies on the health of the glass.

The enemy of the wooden frame is condensation and water, and if the glass or seals get damaged or worn, the wood will rot. That’s why it’s so important to make sure that the windows are quality.

If you are planning on wooden frames, or need to replace the ones you already have, you should take the opportunity to buy something that lasts. Take a look at window replacement estimates to make sure you get the longest life for your windows.

Keeping Your Property Healthy

The final thoughts on the question of how long do windows last? Somewhere between 15-20 years is a safe bet. Like anything, though, maintenance goes a long way.

Treat your home like your body or your business! Pay attention to it and keep it running like new. Check out some of the other sections of our blog for more tips on doing just that!