Window replacement can be an expensive part of any home improvement project, costing an average of $500 per window. Even so, sometimes new window installation is necessary to save money in the long-run. Here are a few signs it’s time to call your local window installation contractors for some replacement windows.

• Your Windows Are Damaged: While a broken window is easy to spot, some minor forms of damage don’t stand out as easily. Is the window frame warped at all? Does the window stick open, or does it not shut properly? Is there a small crack in the glass? Sometimes, repairs are possible in these situations, but the best way to be sure you won’t see worsening damage is to replace it altogether.

• Your Windows Aren’t Energy-Efficient: An old window might work perfectly fine, but some older windows don’t have the same energy-saving materials a newer window might have. An older window is also far likelier to be drafty than a newer window, meaning a new window could eventually pay for itself in energy savings. Talk to a window installation contractor to see how replacing your old window could end up saving you money.

• You’re Selling Your Home Soon: Putting in the money for repairs before selling the house could be well worth the investment. By doing a bit of home renovation before listing your home for sale, you could increase the resale value of your home significantly. This is especially true if your windows are older; old windows can make a home look dated. Newer windows can add an extra dimension of visual interest to a home on the real estate market!

• You Live Near The Coast: Any sort of severe weather can damage windows, but sometimes just living near the ocean is enough. Ocean water and wind can wear down windows faster, making the life expectancy of the window shorter than one might expect. Replacing your windows with lower-maintenance options might be the best option for coastal homeowners; talk to a window installation contractor to see what sort of windows would work best for your environment.

If it’s been a few years since you last had your windows replaced and your situation is listed above, it might be time to call a contractor to see if your windows should be repaired or replaced. Make sure that you talk to a professional about the best options to ensure that you’re getting a window that’s going to last!