Are you living in an old home and wondering if its parts are still efficient and performing as they should? If you are hoping to revive the beauty and efficiency of your home and enhance its protection against weather and the elements, one of the things that you must look into is your windows.
In this post, we share with you the top five tell-tale signs that your windows might be experiencing some serious issues.
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You feel drafts in your home
It is normal for windows, even the best ones, to allow some air infiltration. However, if the drafts are becoming too apparent, then the gaps around your windows have become a cause for worry. Windows wear out over time and, as they do, they let more air in. Wood windows warp, sashes and frames become loose, and weatherstripping may become ineffective. While new weatherstripping may solve the immediate problem, noticeable drafts often indicate leaks that need more than just a temporary fix.
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Opening and closing the window has become difficult
Some windows, such as double- and single-hung windows depend on balance to be functional. If the balance fails, a sash may no longer stay up when opened and can suddenly slam shut, which can be highly dangerous. Wood and metal windows can also have faulty operation when they rot and rust.
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Condensation is forming in between the glass panes
If you have double- or triple-paned windows and there is noticable condensation inside the glass, this is usually an indicaton of seal failure. When window seals fail, moisture is able to get into the space between the glass panes, resulting in condensation. Once this happens, the window is no longer able to serve as a barrier against cold air.
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You notice chipping, softness, and other signs of decay on or around the window frame
Window frames that have started to show signs of damage are usually beyond repair. To check for these problems, you can do a visual inspection of the windows both from inside and outside the house. If you have old windows, you can try pushing a flat-end screwdriver gently against the frame. If the frame has become soft, then its likely rotten on the inside.
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You have high energy bills
If your heating, cooling, and energy bills have increased, it is likely that your windows are letting too much energy escape, and allowing unwanted hot or cold air in. The windows are no longer contributing to your home’s energy efficiency due to its physical issues.
What’s a Homeowner to Do?
According to the US Department of Energy, replacing very old and inefficient windows can be a more cost-effective solution than to perform or apply “first aid” in an attempt to make them more efficient and functional. New, energy-efficient windows can actually pay for themselves over time in the form of lower utility costs.
To make sure that you are making the right decision for your windows and home, it is best to consult a professional contractor who can conduct a thorough inspection of your windows and recommend the best course of action.
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Author Bio:
George is a graduate of Purdue University having played basketball for 4 years and as an assistant coach in basketball for 8 years with a degree in business. George and his wife Pam have owned Bee Window in Indianapolis, Indiana for 30 years selling windows, siding and sunrooms. He has built one of the larger organizations in the Midwest with sales of $12.500,000. He was one of the first companies 6 years ago to aggressively attack online lead generation and today over 35% of his business comes from his online marketing. He also started a company called BringMeMyLeads to help contractors with their online marketing. In August of 2012, this company was purchased by Surefire Social and today he is a minority shareholder of this firm. Surefire Social is one of the leading online marketing firms serving the contractor market.
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