The windows and doors in your home should be the last items on your list of worries. If your home's windows are hard-to-open, have drafts, faded furniture, find them hard to clean, or they're just plain dirty and ugly, it's time to replace them. Or is it? And what do you replace them with? What should you be looking for? Here is a quick guide to help you out.

Your Home Has Inefficient Windows and Doors

If your windows and doors let air through, it's time to replace them. There may even be foggy or have condensation between the panes. In this instance, look for windows and doors with high-performance insulating glass technology to prevent drafts. This type of window prevents the glass from conducting the hot and cold, making your home more energy-efficient and comfortable.

Old Single Pane Windows

It costs more than ever to heat your home. The last thing you need is your windows and doors adding to the problem. Single pane windows are far from energy-efficient. They make your furnace run much harder than it has to, taking years off its life and adding to your energy bills.

Replace them with Low Emissivity (Low-E) insulating double or triple pane windows. These will greatly reduce your heating and cooling costs. For even more energy savings, look for ENERGY STAR® qualified products.

Faded Carpets, Furniture and Household Items

The sun's rays can be damaging, even indoors. If you've noticed your carpets, furniture, window treatments and other items are fading, look for windows that will block the UV rays like those with Low-E coating.

No Emergency Escape Route

All homes should have multiple emergency exits. And if your home's windows and doors don't open easily, or are painted or nailed shut, it has a serious safety issue. If there was a fire or another emergency, you may not be able to get out of your home in time.

They're Just Plain Ugly

Chipped and deteriorated frames, cracked or broken glass, damaged or missing hardware and water stains can really take away from the beauty of your home. So, if your home is looking worn, ragged or dated, it could be your doors and windows. Replacement windows and doors can dramatically improve the beauty and value of your home, inside and out. You'll find the increased energy-efficiency, easy cleaning and functionality.

Old Windows and Doors Can Be Just a Plain Hassle

Older windows can be a real pain. They take a ton of time and effort to clean. They're often difficult to open and close. And finding replacement parts can be difficult or even impossible. Then, there's the regular scraping and painting required to keep them looking like new, even if they're well past their prime.

Today's replacement wood, fiberglass and vinyl windows come in a number of different configurations, types and styles. They open with little to no effort, and are easy to clean and maintain, making them well worth the investment.