Everything fails eventually, but ideally, you want your windows to be able to last as long as possible. While window replacement will be needed somewhere down the line, many homeowners wonder just how long their windows last before needing to be replaced. Your windows are a crucial part of your home in how they protect it, offer security, increase its energy efficiency, and affect the interior light and exterior curb appeal. Because windows are so important, knowing their average life expectancy and what factors impact how long windows last before needing to be replaced will help you be able to make them last longer.

The Average Life Expectancy Of Your Windows

While there are many factors that affect how long windows last before needing to be replaced, well-cared for windows do have an average length of time you can expect them to last. Their average lifespan is dependent on a number of considerations, since there are so many different kinds of windows. But if you know the kinds of windows that you have, you’ll have a better idea of how long your windows will last before needing to be replaced.

Double-paned windows can last up to 20 years, aluminum up to 30, and fiberglass up to 40. This average range is dependent on how well the windows are cared for. Windows that aren’t maintained won’t last as long as ones that are. 

Factors That Influence How Long Windows Last

In addition to the kind of window that you have, there are several other contributing factors to the lifespan of your windows. 

#1. Type Of Materials

The different types of materials that windows are made of contribute to their lifespan, as mentioned above, with fiberglass and aluminum windows. Some kinds of windows last longer than others purely by the nature of their materials.

Wood Windows

Wood windows can take extra maintenance in order to last, but if you are willing to put in the effort to care for them, you won’t have to worry about replacing them for a long time. 

Fiberglass Windows

Compared to wood windows, fiberglass are more low maintenance, and don’t need much aside from regular cleaning and inspections in order to make it to their average lifespan. 

Vinyl Windows

While vinyl windows are cheaper than your other options, this also means they may not last as long, depending on the quality of the vinyl you get, and where you have them installed.

#2. Quality

The material your windows are made of greatly affects how long windows last before needing to be replaced, but as you may expect, so too does the quality, of the materials and of the build. The U-factor, which measures thermal efficiency, will impact the lifespan, as will looking at the warranty. Your window warranty will give you a good idea of how long professionals can expect your windows to last with proper care.

#3. The Climate

While windows are designed in order to be able to withstand the weather, the area you live and the kind of weather you have impacts your windows’ lifespans. If you live somewhere stormy, this can result in damages from the weather. If you live near the ocean, salt spray can make your windows deteriorate over time. If you live somewhere with temperature shifts from very hot to very cold, this can make your windows warp. There are many ways your climate can affect your windows and their longevity. 

#4. How They Were Installed

A poor window installation job will send you looking for replacements much faster than normal. You need your windows to be able to fit properly in order to do their job right.

#5. How Often They Are Used

Just like anything else, the more you use your windows, like opening and closing them, the more wear and tear they are subjected to, which naturally causes them to break down faster.

How You Can Make Your Windows Last Longer

While there are many things that can impact your windows’ lifespans, you can also do your part to increase how long windows last before needing to be replaced.

Regular Window Washing

Even the highest quality windows won’t last as long if you don’t have them regularly cleaned. This is because dirt and grime can build up, impacting the framing and getting into the pores of the glass panes, causing it to degrade. Dirty windows aren’t just unsightly, they also cause your windows to need sooner replacement if you don’t have them cleaned regularly.

Maintenance

In addition to regular window washing, conducting routine maintenance like checking for cracks and ensuring the caulking is in good condition will also help your windows’ performance.

There are many things that affect how long windows last before needing to be replaced. Hopefully, now that you know what can make them need replacement sooner and what you can do to stave that off, this will help you with the longevity and performance of your windows.

Do Your Windows Need To Be Replaced?

Peak Windows knows there are many factors that affect how long windows last before needing to be replaced. We can help you with maintenance and repairs, and when the time comes, window replacement. If you want to learn how to increase the length of time your windows last before needing to be replaced or to schedule repairs or replacements, contact us at Peak Windows today!