Smart homeowners understand that if something is broken, you fix it. Leaky faucet? Call the plumber. Dryer not drying your clothes anymore? Call for a repair. But in some cases, it may not always be clear that something is in need of service or replacement. Windows are a great example.
Obviously, if a window is cracked, it needs to be replaced. Failure to replace a cracked window can lead to bigger problems down the line if the window breaks altogether. Not only is a broken window a significant security issue, but it leaves your home vulnerable to water damage (which could lead to mold and mildew) and provides easy access for unwanted insects and pests.
But what about when the evidence of damage is more subtle? Below are the top three signs your windows need to be replaced.
- Your windows are difficult to open, close, or lock.
You might think a stuck window is just a nuisance, but often it is a sign of a deeper, more insidious problem. Whether due to improper installation or normal aging, windows can develop balance issues that can cause them to get “sticky”. This prevents you from being able to open and close them smoothly, and it may also impact the locking mechanism on your windows—which compromises the security of your home. The same goes for weather-damaged windows that have succumbed to rust, rot, and warping. If you are seeing this problem with one or more of your windows, it is best to replace them now rather than risk further damage to your home.
- You notice condensation between the glass panes.
While condensation on the outside of your windows is perfectly normal and simply means that the air is warmer outside than indoors, condensation on the inside of your windows is a major cause for concern. The most common cause is a faulty seal, which allows moisture to seep in between the glass panes and fog up (or even frost) your windows. At the same time, the insulating gasses that are used between the panes to make the window energy efficient are allowed to escape, which means you can kiss those energy efficient window benefits goodbye.
- You feel a draft even with the windows closed.
A properly installed, quality window should never leave your home feeling drafty. If your window is closed and locked but you still feel air coming in at the bottom or the top, you need a replacement. Otherwise, your HVAC system will continue to work overtime to regulate the temperature in your home, and the result may be a higher-than-normal electric bill.
Don’t let a bad problem get worse. Contact XO Windows today.
Other indicators that it may be time to replace your windows include faded carpet or upholstery (a common problem with older windows that lack the UV protection of Low-E glass), an abundance of outside noise coming through (easily remedied by installing sound-dampening double- or triple-paned windows), and obvious signs of mold, mildew, and/or rot.
If you notice any of these problems with the windows in your Arizona home, contact the professionals at XO Windows. Our team has been providing window services in the Valley since 2008, and we are licensed, bonded, certified, and insured.
For a free estimate, complete our online form or contact us at (602) 396-4825.