Owning a home can be challenging at times because a great deal of cleaning and maintenance is required. From mowing your lawn and shampooing carpet to repainting the interior walls, it is easy to see how many homeowners feel overwhelmed. Unfortunately, one areas of the home that is often forgotten about is the windows.

New windows are a large investment, but they can be beneficial. Of course, knowing when it is time to opt for replacement windows is smart. If you want your home to win in multiple ways, here are a few signs you should invest in new windows.

Increased Energy Costs

Heating and cooling can be an expensive bill whether you use gas or electricity. However, it is also a necessary bill because your family needs to be comfortable during the cold/hot times of the year.

If your home is not properly insulated, maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your home will be difficult because air will be lost through the walls, ceiling, and attic. A great deal of conditioned air will also be lost through the windows if they are old or lacking the appropriate amount of insulation.

Replacing old windows with new energy-efficient windows will help heat and cool your home in the most effective and efficient manner. On average, replacing old windows with Energy-Star single pane windows can save you between $126 and $465 a year on your heating and cooling costs.

Again, replacing the windows will be an expense, but the energy conservation, financial savings, and improved comfort will ensure you are making a smart investment for you, your family, and your home.

Damaged Frames/Panes

If your current window frames are damaged or the glass of your window panes are scratched or broken, you should invest in new windows.

Damaged frames and panes will decrease the window's ability to insulate your home properly, which affects heating and cooling costs. However, damaged frames and glass panes also negatively affect your home's curb appeal.

Curb appeal is the overall look of your home. Good curb appeal makes a good first impression to neighbors and passerby. If your curb appeal is lacking, your home will lack value, as well.

Frames that are cracked or broken or have paint that is peeling and glass that is cracked or scratched are sure signs that your windows need to be replaced.  

Your Home Lacks Value

Again, new windows will improve your home's energy efficiency and curb appeal, which will both benefit the overall value of your home.

Whether you are hoping to sell your home in the future or you just want to invest some money to improve your home's equity, new windows is a great way to add instant value.

Although determining the exact dollar amount of value, new energy efficient replacement windows can offer you a return on your investment of between 60 to 90 percent. Other home updates, such as landscaping or remodeling a room in your home, are beneficial, but will most likely not offer you this high of a return on your investment.

Visible Condensation

Foggy windows or windows with a buildup of moisture or condensation should be replaced, as well.

Fogginess or condensation that is building up in between your glass panes is due to broken seals, which is a common problem with old windows. As these seals wear down, the windows will lack insulation, leading to air loss, drafty rooms, and increased heating and cooling bills.

Living with old windows is possible, but it can be physically and financially stressful. This guide and your contractor's help will teach you when and why new windows are necessary for your home.