How Long Do Windows Last? A Quick Guide for Homeowners

Did you know heat loss through faulty or broken windows is responsible for approximately 25% to 30% of residential energy use?

During the lifespan of a home, many different parts require regular maintenance and upgrade. Windows are no exception.

Maintenance is key in ensuring that your windows last for a long time in your house/building/property. If they’re not properly looked after, they could wear down over time and need replacing sooner rather than later.

So when thinking about how long do windows last, it’s important to consider when you should replace them – or if you even need to replace them at all!

If you need to know more about window lifespan, or when to have your residential windows replaced then keep reading our guide below:

How Long Do Windows Last?

Luckily, the lifespan for windows varies quite a lot and depends on your location and how much it gets used. Windows that receive more exposure to the elements are at risk of early aging due to location.

Consequently, homeowners living in these areas should consider replacing them sooner rather than later.

However, if you’re not sure when is the right time or if you need to replace them at all then read below for our quick guide:

What Affects the Lifespan of Your Windows?

Wherever you live, your home windows are exposed to different conditions depending on where you are. If your property is located near the coast, then its practical life will be reduced due to corrosion.

Conversely, your windows will stay in good condition if you live inland far from the sea or a large body of water.

How Long Do Windows Last – The Definitive Answer

If you want to know how long do windows last, it depends on where you live and how well they are maintained. Below is our quick guide for some of the most common materials used in window frames today:

Wooden Windows

Wooden frame windows can last anywhere between 10 to 25 years depending on whether they treat the wood or not. Treating your wooden window sills and frames is highly recommended.

This is because it will protect them from rotting altogether over time, though it needs doing every few years if possible.

Aluminum Frames

Aluminum frames usually come with a silver-grey finish and therefore require minimal upkeep. However, these can be easily damaged by small scratches and dents.

If you’re looking to add value to your property, then aluminum windows provide a fantastic opportunity.

Vinyl Frames

Vinyl frames are easy to clean and require very little maintenance. Most people tend not to get vinyl windows but instead opt for wood, aluminum, or composite/fiber cement ones.

However, it is still important that you keep the weather stripping in good condition so they last as long as possible.

Composite/Fiber Cement Frames

Finally, fiber cement siding is extremely strong and comes with an extremely long lifespan. It’s also highly resistant to moisture and termites.

On average, fiber cement lasts between 20 to 30 years which is the most durable of all the materials listed above. They’re also costly to install. Be sure to find out more about replacement window cost.

How Long Do Windows Last?

It’s an unfortunate truth that one of the most commonly asked questions is still, “how long do windows last?” That’s why we created this post, and we hope it has given you the answers you needed.

It’s worth noting that many fiber cement manufacturers offer lifetime guarantees for their products, although they only cover manufacturing defects.

Check out our blog for more homeownership advice and insights.