Residential windows will last an average of 15 to 20 years. It is important to fix broken windows and replace windows that have run their course. Failing to do so can leave you with a house that is markedly less safe, less structurally sound, and less energy-efficient.
Keep your family safe, your home intact, and your monthly heating and cooling bills at a reasonable rate by looking out for these springtime window problems.
Leaky Windows
There are several potential ways residential windows can leak. Windows may have air leaks, which can result in up to 25 to 30% household energy loss and leave you paying hundreds more in utilities per year. You may have an air leak if the sun seeps in through a crack between the frame and the window or if the window is loose enough to rattle in its frame.
Carefully examine your window for any signs of water damage that may indicate that rainwater is getting through.
Warping and Shifting
Certain materials, especially wood, are prone to deterioration over time. That deterioration may include warping or shifting. If your residential windows are looser than they were before, if they are misshapen, or if they show signs of visible rot, then it is time to replace them. There is no quick fix for warped windows.
Flashing That Is Worn or Improperly Installed
If your windows are underperforming — if you notice leaks, water damage, or steadily climbing energy bills — insufficient or missing flashing may be to blame. Window flashing is a thin, pliable, and often weatherproof material that surrounds your windows. This flashing should be flush to the wall and window. There should be no gaps, no air pockets, and no uneven parts. It should be consistent and surround the entire window.
If you notice any missing or improperly installed flashing, replace it to extend the life of your windows.
Windows That Stick
Properly functioning windows should be easy to open and close. If they are sticking or catching in their frames, that is a sign of trouble. For windows that are slightly misshapen or just barely off track, you may be able to fix the problem by oiling its hinges or rubbing the window track with a regular bar of soap.
This spring, make sure your windows are in tip-top condition and working exactly as they should. Examine residential windows for signs of leaking, warping, and missing flashing.
