Tips
6 signs it’s time to replace your windows
How long do windows last? Learn the signs to replace your windows, what affects window lifespan, and when replacement makes the most sense.
Aging, damaged, or outdated windows can affect more than just appearance. Explore the key indicators that replacement may be worth considering and learn how new windows can contribute to greater comfort, efficiency, and long-term value for your home.
When is it time to replace your windows?
The short answer is — it depends. Are your windows in poor condition? Are they outdated? Or maybe they just don't match the style of your home. There are many reasons to consider replacing your windows. We'll guide you through the six major signs you may need a window replacement, help you understand how long windows can last, and learn how replacing windows can help improve your home's energy efficiency and value.
How long do windows last?
Again, the short answer is that it depends. The quality of the windows, the installation, how they’ve been cared for (or not), and your environment are some of the many factors that can impact the lifespan of your windows.
Our limited warranty covers standard glass in windows and even extend from one owner to the next, but many windows perform long past the length of their warranty. In fact, we are still making and selling replacement parts for windows manufactured many decades ago.
What factors affect how long windows last?
The lifespan of a window can rely on the following key factors:
Product quality
The caliber of the design, materials, and manufacturing are the underlying factors that result in a product that’s either high-quality or not. We offer products at a variety of price points, but the unifying quality is their durability and our industry-leading limited warranties. Looking at a manufacturer’s warranty is one way to understand quality. If they’re willing to stand behind their product for an extended period of time, that’s an indication they truly believe it will last.
Installation quality
We often say that you can have the best window in the world but if it’s not installed properly, it won’t function properly. Hiring a good installer is one of the best ways you can help control the quality of your installation, and we can help you find that pro. Andersen Certified Contractors are specially vetted and trained by us, and their work comes with an additional two-year limited warranty. Find a local contractor.
Maintenance
Like most everything in a home, windows need proper care. Regular cleaning is a good place to start because interacting with your windows gives you the opportunity to notice if something is off and address it sooner. Occasional maintenance tasks, such as lubricating a balancer or replacing weatherstripping can help you extend the lifespan of your windows. Find maintenance instructions in our Help Center and view replacement parts in our online Parts Store.
Climate and exposure
Harsh conditions in any season and climate can take a toll on your windows. Continuous sun exposure can lead to fading or warping of your window frames, while the extreme freezing and thawing cycles can cause your window frames to swell or the window glass to crack. In humid or coastal locations, the salt water can cause corrosion, or rot depending on the materials used.
It's important to consider your local climate when replacing windows to help achieve protection against these types of weather conditions.
Keeping all these factors in mind can help you make the right decisions when considering a window replacement.
What are the signs you may need new windows?
Here are the most common reasons to replace windows in your home:
They don’t open properly
No one wants to miss out on a fresh breeze. If your windows are consistently sticking or are a challenge to open and close, they may be failing you in terms of both functionality and comfort.
Not only is this frustrating, but it can also be a safety concern in the event of a fire. If your windows are hard to open or don’t stay open on their own, this indicates that something within the window may be warped or broken and that it’s time to repair or replace.
They’re drafty
Do you feel a chill in the air when you're near your windows? If so, it could be a sign that they are damaged or inefficient. Drafty windows often let warm air escape from your home, which in turn can impact both your comfort level and your heating bill.
Speaking of heating bills, if you’re noticing an increase in your monthly energy costs, it may be a sign that your windows need to be replaced. Persistent drafts can let conditioned air escape, while older or deteriorating windows may provide less insulation. Modern dual-pane windows can help improve energy efficiency, but actual results also depend on your home, climate, and installation.
The glass is cloudy
Cloudy or foggy glass can be a telltale sign of a window seal failure. Moisture or fog trapped between the panes of a dual-pane window usually means the insulated glass unit (IGU) seal has failed. A failed seal lets moisture enter the space between the panes, causing persistent cloudiness. With a broken seal, a window can allow the air you are paying to heat or cool escape while also allowing outside air into your home. In other words, it’s no longer doing its job of helping protect you from the elements.
When you notice condensation gathering between the panes on a dual-pane window, it's a sign that seal failure has occurred. This is different than the condensation that can appear on the exterior or interior of your windows, which is quite normal depending on outdoor and indoor conditions.
They don’t provide adequate noise protection
Noise pollution can be a significant pain for homeowners, especially if you live in a lively neighborhood or densely populated area. Single-pane windows and other older models may not provide the type of sound muffling that you're looking for and should be considered for replacement if they are impacting your ability to enjoy your home.
They don’t match your home
It may be time to replace your windows if they no longer match the vision you have for your home. As you go about making your home your own, you might find a replacement opportunity within the context of a remodel. Not only will new windows add aesthetic value to your finished space, but they’ll also add to its property value. Real estate agents and builders agree that Andersen products can increase a home’s value.*
If you’re bringing your dream kitchen to life, it might make sense to tackle the windows while your walls are opened up or maybe you’re ready to upgrade your lifestyle by replacing that old double-hung window above your sink with a pass-through window. An exterior project that involves updating your siding can also be a perfect time to replace windows.
Tacking windows on to another home improvement project can help you take on replacement in a more phased approach and allow you to make use of financing you might have secured to fund your remodel.
*2026 Andersen brand surveys of U.S. contractors, builders, homeowners & real estate agents
They're single-pane windows
Some older homes have original windows made with single-pane glass. Because this type of window glass isn't as insulating as modern window glass, these windows are usually paired with storm windows. Storm windows are added from the exterior and often detract from curb appeal.
Upgrading to dual-pane windows will bring a host of benefits. With two panes of glass and an air space in between, the insulating abilities of dual-pane windows are greatly improved compared to single-pane windows. The functionality of a dual-pane window also beats that of a single-pane window retrofitted with a storm window. Finally, maintenance is likely to be easier as our windows have low-maintenance exteriors.
TIP: Upgrading to new windows doesn't mean you can't have a wood interior. Here are some options that can complement a historic home's style: Our 400 Series Woodwright® double-hung window is made for this exact application, and our A-Series product line is our most architecturally authentic.
How long can different window materials last?
The frame material of your window shapes how long your windows can last and continue performing well. The chart below explores the different window materials in our Andersen® products, so you can understand how well they compare on durability, upkeep, and climate fit.
Remember: Every Andersen window is backed by a robust limited warranty, including 20 years on standard glass and 10 years on non-glass parts, all transferable and non-prorated. These limited warranties help make sure your investment stays protected over time.
CriteriaMaintenance needs | 100 Series Windows (Fibrex® material)Virtually maintenance free; never needs painting | 200 Series Windows (vinyl-clad wood)Low-maintenance vinyl exterior; never needs painting | 400 Series Windows (vinyl-clad wood)Low-maintenance vinyl exterior; never needs painting | A-Series Windows (fiberglass composite, wood interior)Low-maintenance fiberglass exterior; wood interior needs standard interior upkeep |
CriteriaClimate strengths | 100 Series Windows (Fibrex® material)Withstands temperatures up to 150°F; resists fading, flaking, and peeling in heat or cold* | 200 Series Windows (vinyl-clad wood)Vinyl exterior helps repel water and resist dents | 400 Series Windows (vinyl-clad wood)Vinyl exterior helps repel water and resist dents; Stormwatch® protection available on select 400 Series products in coastal areas | A-Series Windows (fiberglass composite, wood interior)Our best-performing, most energy-efficient line; Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) certified options and Stormwatch protection for coastal areas |
CriteriaBest suited for | 100 Series Windows (Fibrex® material)Budget-conscious new construction or remodel projects in any U.S. climate zone; stucco-specific replacement options are available | 200 Series Windows (vinyl-clad wood)New construction homes wanting the warmth of real wood at a moderate price | 400 Series Windows (vinyl-clad wood)Replacement or new construction wanting the warmth of real wood with more design flexibility, ranging from traditional to contemporary | A-Series Windows (fiberglass composite, wood interior)Extreme climates, coastal construction, and high-performance or Passive House builds, including architectural authentic homes |
How often should windows be replaced?
Understanding the manufacturer’s reputation and the materials used to make a window can help you assess durability. You can also ask for your contractor’s recommendation as they have the experience of ordering and installing windows every day. Finally, doing your own research into warranties and actually seeing the windows in person beforehand can help you find high-quality replacement options.
How much do replacement windows cost?
The windows themselves, specifically the number of windows, will be the largest contributor to the cost of a replacement project, but they’re not the only ones. Replacing a window depends largely on the costs of three crucial factors: the product, the installation, and the labor.
- Product cost can vary between product lines as well as the size of the windows you're replacing, the material of the window, and other additional selections such as the color and grilles. The number of windows will be the greatest cost driver for a replacement project. Start to understand cost by size of project.
- Installation costs will generally cover materials, a disposal fee, and permits, but again, it depends on your location as well as your specific window replacement project. For example, a full-frame replacement will often cost you more than an insert replacement, though it’s important to note that you can’t simply choose an insert replacement window to save money.
- Labor costs also depend greatly on your location, as the cost of living varies from place to place. For a general starting point, you may be looking at 30% of the total product and installation costs for the cost of labor.
How should you compare window brands and replacement quotes?
Once you’ve received quotes from different contractors, make sure they include a complete cost breakdown. If they don’t, reach out to your contractor and ask for one. Without a proper breakdown of each quote, it’s more difficult to compare the cost of the product versus labor and installation.
Also keep in mind the differing window brands when comparing quotes. This means reviewing the manufacturer’s warranty, looking at the windows in person, and asking for advice from your contractor. You should also take the time to read through ratings and reviews to help assess a brand properly.
Comparing different window brands and contractor quotes isn't easy. Take your time to review all the information and ask for clarity when needed so you can make an informed decision. For more detailed information on comparing quotes, check out our article on how to compare window quotes and choose the best value.
