It may feel like summer but the calendar confirms that winter is on its way. While the weather holds, take the time to give your windows a look-see and address any issues before the snow flies.
The Fog. Not just an awesome 80’s fright flick, it can turn into a real horror show for your home. Insulated glass has two panes with an inert gas between them which is creates a thermal barrier. Fog is caused by a broken seal, allowing moisture to creep between the panes. Eventually the film will mix with dust and become permanent. The insulating properties of your window are dramatically reduced – creating a cold spot in your home.
The Trap. Damaged wood trim on the exterior causes water traps. Traps are created whenever a surface does not slope downward away from windows and walls. Continuous water trapping will allows water to breach your exterior – seeping into your walls and rotting the framing for your home.
The Crack. Not just for plumbers – windows with cracks cause cold air into the house. More of a safety concern than an insulation issue. Fractures tend to shift and develop a razor sharp edge. Further stress can cause the glass to shatter.
The Lack. A home lacking exterior flashing is doomed to leaks. It is the primary line of defense to keep water from entering through the top of your window.
The Missing. Screens that have vanished over time can generally be found in a safe place you’ve forgotten about.
The Stick. Try to open every window. If one is stuck it can be a safety hazard. It needs to be addressed.
The Evidence. Staining around or below the window sill is a telltale clue of water infiltration. There is always far more water than the superficial evidence shows.
The Broken. Locks that have lost their lineup are a safety issue to dissuade intruders. The broken lock is a symptom of damage and misalignment.