On average, wood windows last between 15 to 20 years. There are exceptions where wood windows can last a really long time. This depends on the type of wood that is used in the frame. Maintenance and care are also variables to lifespan on wood windows.
Typically, a wood frame can last 10 to 20 years with regular upkeep — some professionals estimate they can even last 30 or more years — but if you neglect them, they can become damaged and warp, requiring premature replacement.
Maintenance: Wood requires more maintenance than vinyl or aluminum. Wood is more vulnerable to rot, termite infestation, and cracking or warping due to heat and moisture. Cracks and gaps in the wood can cause energy bills to rise.
How Long Do They Last? A wood sash and frame will last indefinitely, if properly maintained. Glazing is typically warranted against fogging for 20 years.
Many window design professionals agree that new, quality windows should last between 15 and 20 years before you start to think about replacing them. Most companies producing vinyl windows often provide a 20-25 year warranty, which is essentially a lifetime warranty – the expected lifetime of the product.
Yes. If your windows are more than 20 years old it is probably time to start thinking about replacing the lot. Many professionals agree that if homeowners can afford it, they are better served by replacing all their windows in one order. The installation team can complete the full job in a couple of days.
Buying the least expensive window or door for your home is never the best thing to do. They are usually cheap for a reason. In my opinion, it is well worth the extra cost to receive the increased value you receive for an energy efficient PVC or aluminum/clad window unit versus a vinyl replacement window.
Vinyl windows will generally last for between 20 and 40 years. Wood windows, when properly maintained, will typically last around 30 years. Aluminum windows, on the other hand, generally only last around 20 years. However, it's important to note that these are not hard and fast numbers.
No windows are designed to last forever. Even the highest quality brands and professional installations eventually weaken or break down. The average lifespan of residential windows is 15 to 30 years.
Fiberglass vs Vinyl Windows
Fiberglass windows can last up to 50 years, which is amazing. But as you'd expect, they are a much greater upfront investment than vinyl windows. Fiberglass windows also aren't as readily available as vinyl, and they can be more of a challenge to install.
How often should you paint wood windows. If you've just had a set of timber windows fitted on your home, we recommend giving them a coat of paint during the next 18-24 months. After that, however, you should give them a fresh coat every 6-8 years.
Wooden windows could last for as long as 60 years, making them a very long-term investment. As a naturally durable material, able to withstand the most severe of weather, wooden window frames will help to increase the security of your home.
Any area of your home with wood trim may experience this problem, but the frame surrounding many windows is made of wood and regularly exposed to moisture, making it extremely susceptible to rot and damage.
Generally speaking, you can expect your windows to last approximately 20-25 years if you purchase them from a reputable brand and have them installed by professionals in the field. If you keep them in good shape, they could last even longer.
Take care of your wooden windows and they should last for decades. In fact, regular cleaning and maintenance can often reset the lifespan of wood, with some homes not needing to replace their windows for 100 years or more.
Over time, a window's effectiveness can fade. Even windows that were once very efficient will lose their effectiveness eventually.
Unfortunately, it's impossible to make windows that will remain in pristine condition indefinitely. Premium window brands with the highest quality installation services will still break down eventually and require replacement. With that in mind, most homeowners can expect their windows to last between 15 and 30 years.
Most window seals will last longer than 10 years. In fact, you will likely find that most window and door manufacturers will give you a 10 year guarantee. That being said, we recommend checking your window and door seals every 5 years.
The Canadian Standards Association also abides that windows built to CSA standards have a life expectancy of 25 years.
Unless you have a specific reason to keep your single-pane windows (for example, they have historic value), replacing single-pane windows is a good way to make your home more energy-efficient. When you replace your single-pane windows, you will almost certainly replace them with dual- or triple-pane windows.
Wood Frame
This window frame type tends to be the most expensive. The entire structure is wood. But while the interior wood can be painted or stained, the exterior is covered in aluminum or vinyl.