Let’s face it, windows are an investment. Most homeowners will do everything in their power to protect that investment, even if it means a little extra maintenance.

Many people wonder how long windows actually last, but the answer isn’t so cut and dry. You might’ve heard varying answers to this question over the years, with surprisingly drastic ranges. We’ve heard anywhere from 10-25 years, which is a wide range for a homeowner interested in knowing when to start looking for window replacements. The average lifespan is 15-20 years.

The lifespan of each window is different, and there are many factors that will play into the final outcome. Factors that shorten the lifespan of windows might be of interest to homeowners who are looking to prolong the life of one of their home’s many investments.

5 Factors That Shorten the Lifespan of Windows

Most everything in your home has a shelf life and will need to be replaced at some point or another. Windows aren’t excluded from the list. The factors below might influence how long your windows last, and remember, a little window maintenance goes a long way.

Excess Moisture

Excess moisture over time can influence the lifespan of your windows. Moisture buildup is fairly common on windows, but if it’s ignored it can cause damage to the windows like mold, mildew and water damage. If your local climate produces a lot of humidity, moisture is more likely to build up on your windows. If left untreated, moisture can warp the frames of your windows.

Cracked Caulking/Sealant

Caulking and sealant doesn’t last forever and needs to be replaced every few years. If replacement doesn’t happen, your windows are vulnerable to the outdoor elements and won’t last as long. Replace your caulking right away if cracking is detected to make your windows last longer.

Extreme Weather

Extreme heat or cold can impact the longevity of your windows. If the climate where you live experiences extreme weather changes, this can warp or change the shape of the window frame and speed up the time in between window replacements.

Window Quality

The quality of your windows has a large impact on window lifespan. Certain window materials will last longer than others, with fiberglass and vinyl known as durable and quality window materials. Maintenance has a big impact as well, so window quality paired with a higher frequency of maintenance will increase your window lifespan.

Inadequate Installation

The way your windows are installed will impact how well they perform and how long they last. The window parts all need to fit together perfectly in order to work effectively, and inadequate window installation will set you up for failure from the start.

Reflect Window & Door offers window services for both residential homes as well as businesses and other commercial applications. Our team of expert window contractors is available for almost any project, regardless of how small or large it may be.

We service all types and sizes of windows, including vinyl windows, aluminum windows, wood windows, and others. We can work with casement windows, awning windows, sliding windows, bay windows, picture windows, skylights, and more. Schedule a consultation now!