How Long Should Replacement Windows Last in Your Michigan Home

Replacing the windows in your Michigan home is a necessary evil, but you are probably wondering how long it will be before you have to make this investment again. With older windows, it was common to replace windows as wood rotted and dual pane windows filled with condensation. However, modern replacement windows are designed with superior materials that allow them to last significantly longer than their predecessors.

Here’s what you can expect:

Materials are Key

The one element of your replacement windows that will have the biggest impact on how they age is the materials you choose. Compared to wood and aluminum windows, the first vinyl windows were a huge step up. Further improvements on materials include Renewal by Andersen’s Fibrex® material which can also last upwards of 40 years without a problem.

Energy Efficiency Losses

While the materials you choose will have a big impact on the lifetime of your windows, you also need to consider your energy efficiency options. Ask your window specialist about the coatings used on their glass and the gasses used to insulate between the windows panes. In many cases, those special treatments will begin to deteriorate over time. The windows will still look as great as the day they were installed, but after 10 or 15 years you may not be seeing the same benefits that you once had. Your window specialist will let you know if there are ways to renew these treatments to maintain their effectiveness with time.

Installation

The final piece of the puzzle is the installation of your windows. A window that is poorly installed will be subject to unnecessary damage from weather and other conditions. It may also expose the window frame to damage. When this is the case, you may find that you have to replace a window sooner than expected. Always make sure you walk through the home with your installers before they leave to check for any signs of missed seals or other improper fitting that could leave your windows susceptible.

Under all the right conditions the new windows in your Michigan home will last for decades to come. Spending the money today on quality materials and installation will pay off both short and long term. Make sure you ask questions about how the windows age and how you will know that it’s time for a replacement so you will know what signs to look for in the future.

To learn more, contact Renewal by Andersen today and see how you can get reliable windows for the future of your home.