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Winter is a time when many home maintenance problems are revealed. Extreme, cold temperatures outside lead to a variety of problems when parts of the home freeze. Windows are one of the systems of the home that are exposed to warm indoor temperatures and freezing outdoor temperatures at the same time. This disparity in temperatures can lead to a variety of issues that need to be addressed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage to your windows and your house.
Condensation occurs when cold temperatures outside cause the window glass to be very cold on the inside. When the cold window is exposed to warm, moist air inside, condensation forms in the same way that condensation forms on a glass of iced tea in summer.
Condensation is especially common in parts of the house where the air is more humid than others – like the kitchen and bathroom.
You can reduce condensation by reducing the moisture in the air. Running vents in the kitchen and bathroom can help. Replacing the windows can also help, as older, energy inefficient windows are more likely to be very cold on the inside than newer insulated windows. If condensation on your windows is a regular occurrence, you may need to replace your windows with energy efficient models with Low-e glass and an ENERGY STAR rating to reduce the chance of condensation on your windows.
Freeze/thaw cycles cause all home materials to shrink and expand. Flexible caulking that can stretch and shrink with temperature changes can fill the spaces between expanding materials and keep your home watertight, but old caulking can deteriorate and become brittle over time, especially in extreme temperatures. All of this can lead to small moisture leaks, warping and eventually, water damage around your windows.
The best way to avoid this problem is to check the caulking around your windows and replace the caulking when needed. Caulk helps keep out water and prevents warping, water damage, mold, mildew and more.
Air leaks are another common problem for older, inefficient windows – and they become very obvious in winter. Air leaks can lead to problems like hot spots, cold spots and heating and air conditioning system over work and inefficiency. If your windows are allowing cold air into your home throughout the season your furnace and AC may need to work long and hard to keep up with your heating and cooling needs, increasing your energy bills and leading to premature equipment failure.
You can fix this problem by weatherstripping around your windows. Buy weatherstripping at your local hardware or home improvement store and install it in the gaps on the sill where the window closes, and if needed, on the sides of the windows as well.
Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro sells attractive, high-value replacement windows with frames made from Fibrex composite material. Replacing your old windows with Renewal by Andersen products will take the burden off you this winter. No more window repairs! Call Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro at (866) 609-5033 or fill out the short form on this page to make an appointment and learn more about replacing your windows this winter.
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