The winter chill is almost here and you may be facing the dilemma of whether to repair or replace your windows. Drafty windows can be a big source of heat loss in your home and may be adding hundreds of dollars to your energy bill each winter. Updating your windows can also improve your home’s look and add value to the property. The following list is meant to serve as guidelines for when homeowners should consider investing in new windows.

1. Are your windows are performing as well as they did in the past? Sticky windows are not giving you optimal benefit. They are difficult to open and can be a safety hazard. If locking your windows becomes impossible, an unwanted visitor could easily gain entry to your home. Condensation between the glass panes is another sign that your windows are not providing the energy performance that they should.

2. Are your old windows increasing your energy costs? A small matchbox will help you figure out if your windows are big energy wasters. Take a lit match and put it along your window frame. If you see a flicker, you are actually looking at a draft! Remember to remove your curtains before the match test; you would not want to see the curtains catch fire inadvertently. With the variety of replacement windows on the market today it is hard to know which is more energy efficient. There is help! EnergyStar is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy helping us all save money and protect the environment through standardizing requirements for energy efficient products and practices. Choosing a replacement window that carries the EnergyStar label means lower energy bills and reduces your carbon footprint. As an added benefit you should also notice a reduction in outside noise.

3. Are you experiencing more and more maintenance problems? If scrapping, painting and caulking your windows is not how you want to spend your free time you may want to consider replacing your old windows. With the variety of materials being used in replacement windows today, many require little to no maintenance. Additionally, if you want to be able to clean your new replacement windows without going outside or getting on a ladder, there are some easy cleaning features that will help. Most sliding windows can be lifted out of their tracks for cleaning. Some single and double hung windows are designed to tilt inwards so they can be cleaned. For sliders, some companies offer tracks that pop out so you can rinse of the dirt and other junk that always builds up there.

4. Do you want to increase your home’s curb appeal and value? New windows make a home more appealing. Chipped frames and water stains can quickly make your home look run down. When considering windows to increase curb appeal, look for high quality, well designed windows from a reputable manufacturer. You may be asking yourself about the cost of this project and will you ever be able to recoup your investment? Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report shows that window replacement, siding replacement, major kitchen and bath remodeling are the four projects that have consistently show the greatest return during the past four years. Replacement windows are one of the best investments, averaging a 91.6% return. As an added value look for a window company that has a transferrable warranty. Remember, windows are one of the most noticeable parts of your home, make sure they are giving the right impression to visitors, neighbors and potential buyers.

Once you decide to replace your windows, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

1. Research the window manufacturers in your area. Visit window showrooms or look on manufacturers' websites to compare what they offer. Find out which manufacturers have the best reputations – visit your local BBB or Angie’s List.

2. Consider the type of window you prefer. Most home windows are either sash or casement, with a variety of styles and frames available.

3. Select a window style. Choose a style that will compliment your homes architecture and enhance your homes curb appeal.

4. Choose the material for your window frames. There are a variety of options available for home windows – vinyl, fiberglass, wood, composite and even combination frames. Set your priorities and keep in mind what the energy efficiency is, the maintenance of the frame and how easy the windows are to clean.