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Investing in high-quality replacement windows will improve your home’s comfort, prevent energy loss and eliminate drafts. To continue experiencing these benefits, you have to make sure your windows are well taken care of. These components of your home are more susceptible to damage than walls, less insulated and have various possible points of failure.
Here are common window problems found in home inspections.
Condensation Between Glass Panes
Fog or condensation that you can’t wipe away is common in multi-pane windows. It happens when the window seal breaks and the gas between the panes escapes. When your casement windows are extremely foggy, you need to replace them because they have become inefficient.
Faulty, Damaged or Missing Flashing
Flashing prevents water from entering and damaging your windows. Missing, damaged or poorly installed flashing can allow water to enter through the windows and direct it into other parts of your home. It can cause rot at the window frame, which can spread to the drywall and siding.
Flashing requires efficient installation for it to perform well. Make sure to hire an experienced window company to complete your window installation to avoid flashing issues.
Missing or Damaged Window Glazing
Glazing seals and secures the edges of an older glass window or pane. This putty material is soft and flexible in its raw form, making it an ideal seal. Over time, it hardens to keep the glass secure. However, the glazing can crack and chip, leaving gaps around the glass and causing air leaks.
Many homeowners use caulk or silicone to repair damaged glazing, but it isn’t a permanent fix. A broken seal means your window has reached the end of its life and you need to contact your local window contractor for a new one.
Broken Sash Cords
Double-hung window issues are common in older homes. Older windows use heavy, cylinder-shaped weights secured inside the jamb, pulleys at the top edge of the windows and ropes to make the system intact. Weights give the right counterbalance to windows to prevent them from sliding when raised or lowered. Over time, the cording breaks and the weights fall, making the window harder to operate.
If your home is decades old, you may have encountered double-hung windows that are painted shut or bottom sashes that require support to stand up. They are also likely to slam shut on their own for no reason.
Clogged Window Weeps
Window weeps prevent water from settling inside windows and eliminates drafty air. Some windows have noticeable weeps while others only have small holes.
Many are not aware that weeps are essential for the efficiency of windows. Caulk or debris usually fill these small holes. Clogged or sealed weeps stops windows from draining, leading to rot and rust.
Moreover, a contractor can scrape the caulk or debris or poke through the hole to unclog it. While it appears like an easy task, it’s best left to professionals to prevent further damage. With improper techniques, the cauk or debris can become deeply embedded in the window.
Windows don’t just make your home brighter, they affect your home’s appeal and overall value. Even the best windows require regular maintenance to say efficient.
For quality patio door and window replacement services, choose Renewal by Andersen® of Knoxville. We offer a wide selection of window styles in various colors and finishes to complement every home. Aside from that, all our windows and doors are backed by one of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry. Call us at (866) 609-5033 or complete our online form to schedule a free in-home consultation. We work with homeowners in Knoxville, TN, and nearby communities.