Windows on a house can generally last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, but certain options, like fiberglass windows, have the potential to last 50 years or longer.

Windows are one of the most important parts of your home—they let in natural light, you can open them to let fresh air into your home, and they also have a big impact on your monthly utility bills.

When you’re considering replacing your windows, it’s helpful to know how long you can expect them to last. Courtesy of

Jerry

, the

legitimate broker app

for

homeowners insurance

, here’s a look at how different windows’ lifespans compare—and how to know when it’s time to replace them.

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What’s the lifespan of windows?

The average windows can typically last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, but in some cases, they can last even longer. Certain modern windows, like fiberglass windows, could last 50 years or more.

How long your windows will actually last, however, will depend on a variety of factors, like:

The quality of the window materials

The quality of the installation

What weather conditions they’ve been exposed to over the years

How often they’re used

Proper care and maintenance for your windows over the years can help ensure they last as long as possible.

Here’s a look at how windows’ lifespans can vary based on what materials they use.

Lifespan of vinyl windows

Generally speaking, depending on their quality and what kinds of conditions they’ve been exposed to, vinyl windows last anywhere from 15 to 40 years.

Vinyl windows tend to be popular among homeowners because they’re more affordable than other options—like fiberglass or wood—and the right kinds can still provide a good amount of protection against the elements. They also tend to be resistant to warping when properly installed.

Lifespan of fiberglass windows

A fiberglass window could last over 50 years. Fiberglass windows are a popular option for homeowners who care about longevity, low maintenance, and energy efficiency, and their appearances can be customized to emulate wood. However, they also tend to be more expensive.

Lifespan of energy-efficient windows

Energy-efficient windows can be comprised of a variety of materials, and what those materials are can have an impact on their longevity. An energy-efficient fiberglass window, for example, could last upwards of 50 years. You can find a variety of energy-efficient windows that are Energy Star certified via

Energystar.gov

, and paying attention to their material types as you browse can help give you a sense of how long they may last.

Lifespan of wood windows

Wood windows are more maintenance-intensive, but with the right amount of care, they could last 20 to 50 years or longer. One of the most essential parts of ensuring a wooden window holds up over the long haul is to make sure it’s properly installed so it can stay protected from the elements and premature warping or rotting.

MORE: Choosing vinyl vs aluminum windows

How do you know it’s time to replace your windows?

It’s hard to predict exactly how long windows will last—but when it is time for new windows, there are some telltale signs you might notice.

Window frames are hard to open

Just like any object, the components that help a window open and close can wear out over time. Depending on the problem, you might be able to swap out a handle or another part, but in some cases, you might find it more convenient or cost-effective to just replace the entire window.

Do pay attention to windows that become more difficult to open—especially if you notice cracks forming at the corners. These can actually be warning signs of worsening foundation problems in a home.

There is warping

If your windows are succumbing to the elements, you might notice signs of warping around the frame. This might happen sooner for your windows if you live in a climate that’s very humid or experiences extreme temperatures.

They impact your curb appeal

While it may not be the most urgent issue, it’s important to enjoy the home you’re living in (and paying for). If you feel like your windows are harming your home’s curb appeal, installing new windows could be a way to change that—and you might be able to see an increase in your home’s value as a result.

You have drafty windows

If your home has old windows, or they’re just poorly insulated, you might notice a cold draft when you walk by them. Drafty windows could also point to signs of poor window installation if the windows weren’t properly sealed.

Those drafty windows could be costing you extra money, too—as much as 25% to 35% of a home’s heating and cooling energy use is lost through windows, according to the

Department of Energy

—and why pay for high energy bills if you don’t have to? A quality window, when properly installed, can help keep your home better insulated, which could lower your energy costs in the long run.

You want new color options

If you’re looking to boost your curb appeal, new windows are certainly a way to do that—and starting over means you’ll have a variety of color options to choose from to freshen up your home’s exterior look.

Different types of materials can also give you plenty of room to play with styles and textures, making it that much more fun to develop your home’s picture-perfect image.

MORE: How to clean outside windows you can’t reach

Should you replace your existing windows at the same time?

Whether you should replace all your existing windows at the same time or just one will largely depend on their overall condition and your total budget.

If your windows aren’t very old and just one has been damaged, you might prefer to only replace that window. However, if you have older, drafty windows, you might want to consider looking into more energy-efficient replacement windows to cut down on your energy costs over the long term.

If you’re already renovating your home, it also could be more convenient to replace multiple windows at the same time. Additionally, you could find a replacement to match your home’s other windows, but if you’re worried a mismatched window would harm your curb appeal, it’s a good idea to replace them all at once.

MORE:

How to choose the right kind of home insurance for you

Find affordable home insurance

Finding the right windows at a reasonable price when yours are ready to be replaced can be a tedious process—but updating your

homeowners insurance

policy that covers them doesn’t have to be.

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FAQs

Can windows last 30 years?

It’s possible! How long a window can last will largely depend on its materials and what conditions it’s been exposed to. Generally, windows can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years or longer.

What’s the life expectancy of a window?

The average window for a residential home could be expected to last 15 to 30 years or longer, depending on what kind you choose. Some options, like wood or fiberglass windows, could potentially last upwards of 50 years.

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