If youโve recently moved down to the coast, or even if you have been living by the seaside your whole life, you may have noticed that the elements are a lot harsher than usual. This difference in climate may cause you to wonder things such as how long will my windows last at the beach?
The lifespan of your windows depends on several factors, such as the quality of the material used, the installation process, and how protected they are from the elements. Taking these factors into consideration, your oceanfront home’s windows can last anywhere between 10-25 years.
Whether you are building a new home or simply want to replace your existing windows, there are many factors to consider. Some materials will degrade faster than others, which may cause an unwanted financial burden of constantly needing replacements. Choosing high-quality materials when redoing your windows is essential to ensure they last as long as possible.
How Long Do Windows Last At The Beach?
Residential windows typically last between 10-15 years on average. Windows that were correctly installed and used higher quality materials can even reach 25 years. However, if you live by the ocean, your windows may need to be replaced sooner due to the harsher climate and elements.
Factors That Can Affect Your Windows Lifespan
Some oceanfront homes are at a higher risk of their windows deteriorating faster because of the harsh climate and frequent hurricane threats. When choosing your windows, you need to understand the environment of the area your home is situated in and the added dangers of natural disasters.
Using high-quality materials โ One of the best ways to ensure your windows do not deteriorate quickly is by using the highest quality materials available. For an extra fee, double or even triple-pane windows will operate at top performance for many years to come.
The installation process โ If a reputable business correctly installs your windows, it is almost guaranteed that they will last a lot longer. Using the best quality materials for your windows will make little to no difference in their lifespan if they have been ineffectively installed.
Windows incorrectly installed may lead to leaking, and any energy efficiency benefits can not be trusted. If the people installing your windows are incompetent and cause damage to the area surrounding the window, the repair costs could be enormous. This is why it is crucial to choose a reputable business for your window installation.
The Best Window Materials For Your Seaside Home
With so many different window frames available to you on the market, it is crucial to pick the materials that would best suit your home and the climate you are in.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows have been rated as one of the best options for coastal homes. This is because the harsh weather by the coast will eventually damage your windows. Luckily, aluminum windows are largely weather-resistant.
Aluminum windows are so prevalent in coastal areas because they are waterproof, rustproof, and highly durable against the extreme rain and wind caused by most coastal storms. As most people would want their beach homes to be warm and sunny, aluminum is the best option for natural light because of its thin frame and minimalist feel.
However, there are some cons to choosing an aluminum window. They can be prone to condensation and are known for low thermal efficiency.
Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass is used in numerous building materials because of its durability and longevity. Windows that use fiberglass are known to be extremely high-quality. If you are looking for a window with multiple advantages, such as energy efficiency, durability, and being aesthetically pleasing, then fiberglass may be the window for you.
Fiberglass is generally used in areas with extreme weather such as hurricanes, because it can withstand high winds and pounding rain. They require the most minor maintenance, and because of their durability, they are also the windows that will last the longest.
A downside to this excellent material is that it is also one of the most expensive materials on the market. Also, if you have a particular aesthetic in mind, they aren’t the most flexible option as they only come in a few colors.
Vinyl Windows
A popular choice amongst coastal homes is vinyl windows. They are packed with advantages such as durability and energy efficiency but at a lower price. They have many insulation options to prevent heat loss and are one of the most energy-efficient windows on the market.
They are a very low-maintenance option because they do not need to be refinished, painted, or stained after installation. The frames are impact-resistant, making them ideal for harsher climates with lots of storms.
Some cons to vinyl windows are that they cannot be used in areas where there are extreme temperature changes, as the window materials will contract and expand. Proper installation is essential to prevent warping, and you cannot change the hue of your window as it must not be painted or stained.
How To Know When You Should Replace Your Windows
If your windows are 20 years old, it is probably time for a replacement. However, depending on the quality of your windows, they may still have a few more years left. There are several different things that you should look out for that will signal it is time to replace your windows.
A few telltale signs that your window is too old is if you notice they do not open or close quickly but instead get stuck upon opening. They may also slam shut on their own or regularly fog up. This is generally a sign that your windows are old and need to be replaced.
Another sign to look out for is a high energy bill. If your energy bill is higher than usual, it could be a sign that your windows are letting in a draft. If you want to save up to 25% on your energy bill, consider replacing your windows with energy-efficient ones.
Another factor you can consider is whether or not your area just experienced an extreme weather event such as a hurricane. High impact wind and rain can cause damage to your windows, which may be enough cause to need to get them replaced.
Conclusion
Windows can generally last anywhere between 10-25 years. However, in coastal areas, they may deteriorate quickly. This is why it is essential to ensure you choose the highest quality materials you can and use a reputable business to do the installation for you, as this can significantly increase the lifespan of your windows.
References
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/trulia/2016/08/03/5-signs-its-time-to-replace-your-windows/?sh=59f991c56927
- https://www.sehbac.com/blog/best-windows-doors-for-homes-by-the-beach/#:~:text=In%20short%2C%20like%20most%20things,prevents%20corroding%2C%20flexing%2C%20and%20fading
- https://www.uswindow-door.com/blog/best-windows-for-beach-homes
- https://seaislandbuilders.com/news/best-windows-for-coastal-homes#:~:text=Compared%20with%20vinyl%20or%20wood,the%20finish%20begins%20to%20deteriorate