No one enjoys cold air seeping through their windows and blowing around their house, especially with Winter right around the corner. That’s why it is essential to ensure yours are performing well. Correctly sealed windows will stop a draft from entering your home and provide energy efficiency so that you aren’t throwing money out the window this Winter. There are a few things to consider to ensure you have high-performing windows.
Age
If your windows are more than 30 years old, they’re probably drafty. Older windows made of single-pane glass don’t insulate as well as newer double or triple-pane windows. For example, Windows manufacturers like Pella or Marvin design windows to be more airtight now than a few decades ago—helping prevent draftiness. Unfortunately, the only way to fix the problem is to replace your windows with newer ones that are more energy-efficient and insulating. However, this isn’t all bad! While the expense may seem like too much at the moment, the truth is that new windows improve the value of your home and will save you money in the long run.
Storm Damage
Severe storms can damage your windows. Whether it’s a falling tree branch or a hail stone, thousands of Minnesota homes are damaged by severe storms every year. It’s essential to repair the damage, so you don’t risk further damage from drafts or temperature fluctuations. After all, drafty windows don’t just let in the air- they can let in unwanted moisture, which can lead to mold or mildew. Having storm damage on your home repaired early on reduces the cost you will have to pay in the future.
Improper Installation
Poorly installed windows can lead to significant problems later on. Not only do they not operate as well as they should, they also won’t be able to stand up against the elements and keep your home warm. This can lead to extensive damage that’s much more expensive in the long run. You should contact a local window contractor for help if this is the case.
Weatherstripping
Worn down or missing weatherstripping can lead to water leaks. This is because the seal around the window allows moisture in and out of your home. If this is the case with your windows, you could end up with mold or other damage that’s hard to repair or clean up later on down the road. If you suspect that your windows have worn down or are missing weatherstripping, it’s essential to get them replaced as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more damage can occur from water leaks and other issues related to this problem.
Window Frames
A broken, warped, or cracked window frame can be unpleasant. Not only do you risk significant issues like your window falling out of its now ill-fitting frame, but you can also have problems with drafts and moisture getting into your home. This is especially true if you don’t have good weatherstripping on your windows. It’s important to get these issues taken care of as soon as possible, so they don’t become a bigger problem than they already are. A trusted window contractor can help you, and your family’s windows return to their best quality today.
Water Leaks
Water leaks are the most common issue that we hear from customers about their windows. When there’s a leak, it can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and costly repairs. If you notice your home getting wet in areas where it usually doesn’t, then you probably have a leak somewhere. Call a window contractor as soon as possible so they can diagnose and fix the problem!
Turn to the Pros at Shelter Construction
At Shelter, we perform free inspections and consultations. We will perform minor repairs during the examination to small damage that we find. Call us at 612-284-6985 or schedule an inspection today on our website!