When you’re in the market to purchase a home, it’s important to check the quality of the windows. Over time, windows do age, and not all windows are created equally. Seals may break and cause a cloudiness, and old windows rattle and will cause you to incur drafts and hefty bills.

The question is: does the home need window replacement? Pittsburgh-based Meredith works with homeowners to ensure they are satisfied with all of their window needs.

Here’s what to look for:

Difficult to open windows. Maybe they stick or are difficult to operate and clean. Were they installed correctly?

Do the windows seal correctly and lock in place? For safety reasons alone, this is a problem.

From an aesthetic angle, are the windows an eye sore? Perhaps you or the previous owner has recently completed a remodel and the windows are the original. Happens more often than you’d think.

Are they cloudy? A cloudy window often indicates a broken seal. These can be replaced unless the window glass is fixed inside such as a French door.

Drafty windows that drive up energy bills—on heating in the winter and air conditioning this time of year

Worn out old windows that have long surpassed any warranty

Ask for utility bills: are they excessive? Could be the windows

When in doubt, contact the professionals at Meredith for our input. The last thing you want is to incur steep extra costs on top of your new home purchase. In some cases, the problems can be easily remedied. You just need the facts. That’s what we’re here for. We’re always happy to provide more tips on keeping the windows you have in top working order.