You keep the walls and floor of your home in pristine condition but what about the windows? Windows are as important as any other part of the home, still, most homeowners overlook their windows which results in declining their lifespan. However, it’s possible to prolong the life of windows by fixing the minor issues before they become bigger problems.
When you notice peeling paint, water stains, mold growth or rotten wood, it all indicates that you might need to replace windows. But before such issues arise, you can take steps to prevent them by targeting the root cause of the problem. Below you’ll find the common window problems and tips on how to resolve them. By fixing these issues, you can ensure that your windows offer the same security and protection as they did when they were first installed.
Condensation & Drafty Windows
When moisture builds up, it causes problems like peeling paint and mold growth. Water droplets form a layer which makes your windows foggy and decreases the efficiency of the heating system. To fix the problem of condensation, you need to consider the inside and outside temperature, as well as ventilation. But if you find condensation between your double glazed windows, it indicates that the seal has been broken which needs replacement.
You should make efforts to minimize the amount of moisture by improving air circulation. You can also invest in a dehumidifier and ventilation fans to tackle this issue. However, if the problem persists and you still notice the water droplets on your windows, it’s probably time to say goodbye to your windows. By installing energy-efficient windows you can reduce condensation which is responsible for various other problems.
Broken Glass Pane
Sometimes, due to an accident or burglary attempt, the glass pane gets damaged. A broken glass pane not only looks unpleasant but is also dangerous for many reasons. It’s not recommended to repair the broken glass on your own but if you’re doing it, make sure to wear safety gloves and goggles. Even a small crack can impact the heating and cooling system of your home, so make sure to call a professional for help.
Hard to Open Windows
Often, horizontal slider windows or crank-operated windows become hard to open. If you face any issue in operating the windows, there could be a number of things that aren’t functioning properly. To solve this problem, begin by lubricating the hinges and fixing the sash. In case of slow opening sliding windows, often the culprit is dirt and grime buildup. To clean the window tracks, apply baking soda on the affected area and then scrub it with a mixture of white vinegar and water.
The casement or awning windows should also be cleaned to get rid of dirt and rust. The window cranks need to cleaning and lubrication by removing the arm of the crank. If you have wooden frames, they can warp over time and if the problem persists, you might need to get energy-efficient replacements with vinyl frames.
Leaking Water around the Window
Every window has to endure a certain amount of wear and tear which reduces their efficiency. But if your windows are exposed to water, they will rust and age even faster. If you find water leaking around the windows, it’s usually due to improper flashing. Faulty flashing is responsible for seeping rainwater inside your home, behind the window or even down on the floor. This can be an extremely annoying situation and you may try fixing it temporarily with caulking. However, before the problem gets serious, you should call a professional window installing and repair service to solve this issue. Your windows are the weakest points of your home, so make sure you keep it in the best condition to improve your home’s energy efficiency and ensure your safety.