Six Signs Your Windows Are Costing You Money

The six signs

Any one of these on its own may justify a repair. Three or more across the house usually means the units have reached the end of their service life and replacement is the cheaper long-term call.

• Fog or haze between the panes — the insulating seal has failed and cannot be restored
• A noticeable temperature difference standing near the glass on a hot afternoon
• Sashes that stick, drop, or need a prop to stay open
• Visible daylight, drafts, or dust lines at the perimeter
• Soft or discolored trim below the sill, which usually means water is getting behind the frame
• Outside noise that has gotten worse as the seals have aged

What replacement actually changes in the Lowcountry

In this climate the biggest measurable gain is not heat loss in winter — it's solar heat gain in summer. Low-E coatings tuned for a cooling-dominated climate cut the load your HVAC fights from May through September, and that shows up on the bill.

The second gain is structural. Impact-rated units bring an opening up to current coastal standards, which matters for both storm performance and, on many carriers, insurance pricing.

One caution on quotes

A window quote that doesn't mention flashing, sill pan, or how the opening will be sealed is not a complete quote. Most window water intrusion we're called to fix is an installation failure, not a product failure. Ask how the opening gets waterproofed and you'll learn more about the contractor than any brochure will tell you.