Among the most overlooked, but essential, features of a building are its windows. But even a little trouble with these components can have a significant impact on your home, making it feel less comfortable and reducing its efficiency. Fortunately, some of the most common problems can be prevented with the proper maintenance and routine inspections outlined below.
5 Window Issues & How to Prevent Them
1. Drafts and Leaks
There are several reasons for drafty windows, including broken seals, faulty insulation, poor installation, and damaged frames. Drafts or air leaks often become more pronounced with seasonal changes, and you may notice your HVAC struggling to keep up with your desired indoor temperatures. Prevent your heating and cooling costs from skyrocketing by weatherstripping and caulking around the seams.
Warping is common in wood windows. Since wood absorbs moisture, it expands and contracts repeatedly over time, and may eventually become permanently distorted. You may notice bow and crook warping, which happens along the length and edges of the frame. Twist warping contorts the unit until it’s uneven in its mounting. Cup warping happens when the borders become raised or lowered, creating a concavity on one side. Your only recourse with this issue is to replace the wood frames entirely. Consider vinyl units, as they’re less prone to these issues.
Another wood-specific problem is rotting. Trapped moisture causes the formation of fungus, which eats away the wood. Aside from looking unsightly, damp, rotting wood can also jumpstart hazardous mold growth and infestations from termites and ants. To head off this problem, treat your wood with stain and paint, or replace wooden units with vinyl or metal ones instead.
When your windows look foggy or cloudy, it means that condensation has formed on the surface. This problem can happen for one of two reasons: broken glass or damaged seals. Either issue will cause the insulating gas to leak, making it less energy-efficient. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do in terms of prevention. If you notice the problem and your unit is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer. If not, ask a contractor to replace the gas and seals between the panels.
Broken glass is another common problem that can be minimized by mounting protective films. To prevent fissures and cracks from becoming worse, inspect your units periodically. Have a professional come in and do small repairs as soon as problems crop up, and ask them about installing thicker or impact-resistant panes.
When you need to replace your broken or worn-out windows, trust the professionals at Modern Window of New York to get the job done right. As the premier contractor in Buffalo, NY, they provide exceptional workmanship and unparalleled customer service to clients throughout Erie County. Call (716) 873-8800 to request an estimate on energy-efficient options, or visit them online to learn more about their exciting offers.