How To Look At A House

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What is the average life expectancy of a wood window?

Friday, June 26, 2020

How long does a wood window last?

You can expect a wood window to last 20 to 45 years, with an average of 30 years. Wood windows are both classic and durable, but susceptible to rot if a paint finish or other sealer coating is not maintained. 

    Here’s a bar graph comparing the life expectancy of wood windows to other available types.
    Go to our blog post What is the average lifespan of the parts of a house? for rating of other house components. To understand the basis, potential use, and limitations of lifespan ratings, see How accurate are the average life expectancy ratings of home components? Are they actually useful? 
 

  To learn more about windows, see these other blog posts:

What are the signs it's time to replace windows?

How can I tell if a window or sliding glass door is double or triple pane (insulated) glass?

How can I tell if a window or glass door is safety glass? 

What is "low-E" window glass? 

Are openable windows required to have window screens? Will windows with no screens pass a home inspection?

What does ANSI 297.1 on glass mean?

Does a home inspector test all the windows and doors in a home? 

How difficult is it to change a window to french doors or a sliding glass door?

 What are the small slots at the bottom of the outside of my window? 

Why does condensation form on the outside of some windows and not others in the morning? 

Why are window security bars dangerous? 

• What is the tempered label on glass at windows and sliding glass doors called?

What is an egress window? 

   Visit our DOORS AND WINDOWS and LIFE EXPECTANCY pages for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles. 

NOTE: These life expectancies are based on data provided by InterNACHI, NAHB, FannieMae, and our own professional experience. Because of the numerous variables that can affect a lifespan, they should be used as rough guidelines only, and not relied upon as a warranty or guarantee of future performance.

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