Are your windows damaged? Yes. Do you need new windows? Probably.
When it comes to major home improvements like window replacements, it can be difficult to determine when the right time to take action is. On one hand, you don’t want to have faulty windows, and on the other hand, if your windows are still in decent enough condition, you’ll likely want to avoid the expense of window replacement.
Determining whether or not you need new windows is not an easy task — unless the damages to your window are as obvious as the neighborhood kid’s baseball sitting on the carpet beneath the windowsill. Because it can be difficult to diagnose the extent of most window damages, our team at WinChoice USA offers free window inspections with each in-home presentation. So if you suspect that your windows might be damaged, be sure to schedule a consultation with a member of our team today.
Below, we have outlined a few of the telltale signs that you might want to consider window replacement.
Outside Noise
When you are sitting in your house, it might be normal to hear cars and pedestrians walking by. That said, if you can hear every word that the pedestrians are saying or the rattling muffler of the car as it drives past, there could be an issue with your windows.
When a window is installed, it is meant to be a barrier between the indoors and the outdoors. If excess sound is making it through the shut window, it is a sign that the window sealant has failed or that the window was installed improperly. In some cases windows allowing sound to pass through can be fixed, but if the window was installed incorrectly, it is more than likely that window replacement will be necessary.
Drafts
Another telltale sign that your window seal has failed or that a window has been installed incorrectly is if you can feel air passing through the window. Drafty windows are more than just a nuisance — they are also a utilities drain.
When you have drafty windows, up to 30% of the energy used to heat and cool your home is lost. Sometimes drafts can be remedied by applying more sealant to the outside of the windows. Other times, however, windows can’t be fixed and will require replacement.
Water Damage & Active Rot
One of the more obvious window damages that you might notice is the presence of water damage or active rot caused by water damage. If a window seal is damaged for a long period of time without being repaired, water can actually get inside the wooden frame of your window. If the window saturation goes unnoticed, it can lead to rot.
If you see water damage on a window, it is important that you investigate the extent of the damages right away. If you don’t limit the damages caused by the rot, it could spread to the wooden supports in your wall.
Difficulty Opening, Closing, & Locking
Everyone has experienced a stuck window in their life. No matter how hard you push down or pull up the window it resists. And when you finally do get it to move, it makes a loud creaking noise.
When a window is stuck, it is usually a result of exposure to moisture — whether it was past exposure or constant exposure. Past exposure can lead to the metal components rusting and window frame warping — thus making it harder to open and close. Current, prolonged exposure can lead to active window rot. So if your window is difficult to open, close, and lock, it is a surefire sign that it is damaged.
Condensation Build-Up
Above, we discussed how improper window seals can lead to drafts and excess noise. Similar to the window frame, the window panes can also become damaged if improperly sealed. The two panes of a window are used to act as a thermal barrier. If the outer seal is broken, so is the barrier.
When the outer seal of a window pane is broken, it can allow condensation to build up. When moisture begins to accumulate, it negates the energy efficiency of the window while also restricting your ability to look through it.
Let Us Inspect Your Windows Today!
Serving the entire Southeastern U.S., WinChoice USA is the premier window installation and replacement window company — and we are here to help you with all of your window needs.
Offering competitive prices, favorable warranties, and free project estimates, our team is here to make your window replacement experience effortless and pain-free. If you are interested in learning more about our replacement windows, as well as having your current windows inspected, we urge you to reach out and contact a member of our team today. We look forward to hearing from you.
