As pleasant springtime weather continues to roll in, and temperatures continue to rise, you may be opening and closing your windows more frequently, alternating between fresh air and air conditioning.
All that window opening and closing might be telling you something — if you’re paying attention. Here are some signs you need to listen to your windows. We’ll translate for you, so you can take action.
“Help, I’m stuck!”
Windows that are hard to open and close might be a sign of swelling wood. When the air is damp or humidity is higher, wood-frame windows can expand making it hard to open and close them without extra effort. This is a common problem with double-hung windows and changing humidity conditions.
Additionally, both wood and vinyl windows may have springs or other mechanisms that make them easier to open and close. But, sometimes these mechanisms wear out, or stop working completely, in the first five years of the window’s life. Once you replace the part, your window functions more easily again. You can also use a lubricant in window tracks to make them a bit easier to open and close when they get stuck.
“Hey! It’s kind of drafty in here.”
Do you feel a draft when you’re sitting next to a window in your home? If so, your window may be alerting you that it’s time to replace the weather stripping to keep the outside air out and the climate-controlled inside air in.
Another reason you may feel a draft is when your windows aren’t as energy-efficient as they could be. In that case, the glass itself could be making it drafty. Replacing old windows with newer, more energy-efficient ones can make a big difference in your comfort level and in your utility bills.
“Am I the only one getting wet around here?”
Your windows can be “getting wet” in a few different ways:
- Condensation between window panes
- Condensation along the bottom corners of window panes
- Water in the window track
Each of these problems is telling you something different, so here’s how to interpret the different types of window leaks:
Condensation between the panes of glass means your double- or triple-pane windows are no longer doing their job of keeping outside air outside. When moisture from outside stays trapped between the panes it most likely means you need to replace the window.
On the other hand, condensation that forms along the bottom corners of window pane are a sign that your home has too much moisture. This is common in bathrooms after a hot shower, too. Try running a dehumidifier or fans to lower the moisture levels inside your house. Otherwise, you may end up with a mold and mildew build-up problem.
After it rains, if you notice water in the track or on the sill, it could be a sign that your window doesn’t close tightly enough. Check the window lock. Is it broken or not functioning properly? That can be an easy fix.
If you notice any of these issues, your window may be trying to get your attention. If you listen, it could help you save money in the long run on costly repairs or as a result of high utility bills.
The experts at XO Windows understand when windows are trying to tell you something, and we’re here to answer all your questions. We can help you keep your windows and your home free from these common concerns. Just give us a call, send us an email, or fill out a request for a free estimate.