Are Your Home's Windows Old? Two Signs Your Windows Are Beyond Repair

At the first sign of a house problem, the natural instinct is some DIY repair. When it comes to your windows, a repair isn't always the right next step. In certain situations, a replacement is the ideal, long-term solution. Equipping yourself with the knowledge to recognize when your windows have reached this point can save you a considerable amount of money on unnecessary repairs. Here are two points to get you started.

Your Windows Are Indicative Of The Outside Temperature

The temperature of the interior glass on your windows should not be indicative of the weather outdoors. Glass that is too hot to touch during the summer is an example of this. If this is a reality in your home, it's time to replace the windows. If the air outside is changing the temperature of the glass inside, it is also changing the air temperature inside your home.

This type of problem makes it harder to cool or heat your home, leading to higher energy bills. Trying to re-caulk your windows or replace the weather-stripping isn't going to resolve this problem. The best solution is to upgrade to a window with a greater U-factor. The U-factor represents the rate at which air is transferred through the glass. The lower the U-factor, the more insulating the glass. Unfortunately, there is no ideal rate to look for. The direction the window faces and the local climate play a role in determining which rate is best for your situation.

You Have a Rotting Wood Frame

If the window frame is starting to show signs of rotting, this is a sign that a replacement is long overdue. A rotting frame is a sign of water damage. As the frame begins to age, it's not uncommon for it to also start to loosen. Once this happens, when it rains or snows, moisture seeps into these loose areas, causing the wood to deteriorate. Some people only replace the rotting part of the frame and consider it a fix.

However, rotting can easily spread throughout the casing, sill and trim of the window. While it might not immediately be visible, you will start to see more and more signs of rotting. In fact, one site says that existing wood rot colonies are continually sending out spores, so a little problem could spread to other windows! With this type of problem, it's best to replace the entire window. If you live in an area with higher moisture levels, consider upgrading to a fiberglass, aluminum, vinyl or composite plastic frame since they are more water-resistant.

Don't waste your money on a short-term fix. If you recognize any of these signs in the windows in your home, make certain you are speaking with a professional, like Brant Windows and Doors door installation, to discuss your window replacement options. 


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