Home windows endure extreme conditions in the Midwest. Though we have walls to protect us against the sun, winds, rain, snow, dust, etc. – windows are much weaker yet able to withstand it all. However, not without some problems. Home window problems become evident only when the damage is serious. In this piece, we’re going to look at a few common home window problems so you can be better prepared and possibly also nip them in the bud.
Common Home Window Problems
Drafty windows
Sometimes you might feel a draft of air coming in from one of your windows even though it’s properly shut. Drafty windows are not well-insulated. If you have multiple drafty windows in your home, it can significantly increase the cooling and heating costs over the long run.
The main causes for drafty windows include cracking or rotting window frames, broken weatherstripping, or broken seals.
The best solution is to apply new weatherstripping, window caulk, or upgrade your windows.
Leaking windows
Broken window frames can lead to leaking water during rains. Leaking water can cause a host of problems ranging from wood rot and mold to damaged electronics plugged into the walls near the window. Flashing (weather-resistant material) and the sealant can both come off or get damaged. You can use caulk or replace the material directly.
Condensation
Windows with two glass panes usually have an insulating gas filled in between the panes (like argon). The job of this gas-filled cavity is to make external temperature changes less influential inside the home. Due to this, less heat comes in during summer and more heat stays in during winter, for example. However, sometimes windows lose their insulating gas. The best way to find out if you have lost the insulating gas or not is to check for a foggy appearance or formation of ice within the glass panes. A temporary solution for the ice is to use a dehumidifier on the window.
Panes can lose gas for a variety of reasons. When this happens, external weather conditions can affect the inside of the home more prominently. In turn, this can drive your cooling and heating costs higher. Even though there are some ways to fix these problems, resealing windows with insulating gas is going to be more expensive than replacing the windows with new ones.
The window won’t shut or open properly
Window frames and other moving parts in the window (like hinges) can lose their efficiency for a variety of reasons. If the window is fairly new, and it’s hard to close it properly or open it – this is a sign of a bigger problem.
Maybe the fitting isn’t proper or the frame is damaged. This can be hazardous in extreme weather and can also drive up your electricity bill. Faulty windows are not energy efficient at all. Replace your windows as soon as possible as windows that don’t close properly or that stick can be a safety hazard.
Mold and mildew growth
Mold and mildew can grow around window edges. In fact, it can easily turn out to be a tremendous health hazard. The best way to solve mold issues is to first manually remove all mold you can see. Baking soda or dishwashing detergent both work well in removing mold and mildew. However, mold can always come back. To make sure mold doesn’t come back, here are some tips:
- Provide proper ventilation.
- Open the windows and run exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms.
- Use a dehumidifier.
- Seal window leaks.
- Keep windows clean and dust-free. Vacuuming the room often will help.
Additional Reading: Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home
Discount Window and Door of Omaha
At Discount Window and Door of Omaha, we are committed to providing the best quality doors and replacement windows. We employ the most skilled installers to ensure the highest standard of quality service. Our Omaha door and window installers are highly trained, certified industry professionals with years of experience, including some second and third-generation employees.