Getting to Know Your Windows

Are you tired of fussing over your windows? If so, you might be pleasantly surprised to find that your windows may need to be replaced or are in need of serious repair. Because you don’t understand how your windows are supposed to operate you could be inhibiting yourself from recognizing the real problem. Here is a list of common window frustrations; understanding your windows will help you to finally live in peace.

Frosted Windows – You know that window in your bathroom that has taken on a permanent frost? That’s not normal. While surprisingly seasonal during the winter, the romantic snowy-night frosted is not something a healthy window should exhibit. What’s really happening? Your window has seal failure and seal failure is neither good for your window nor your health. Seal failure allows air and moisture to leak in between the panes of glass causing a permanent frosted look. Moisture infiltration can also cause mold to develop which in turn can lead to health problems. Frosted glass needs to be replaced. Stop trying to clean it off, as long as your seal is broken the frost is here to stay.

Windows that Won’t Open – Do you have that one window that’s just impossible to open? Whether your opening or closing it you find yourself breaking a sweat every time you try to muscle it in the direction it needs to go. This isn’t normal. One of two things are happening, either your home has settled and the frame on which your window sits on is no longer level, or the window track is in need of some serious TLC. Pray for the later. Dirty, dusty, gunked up window tracks can make opening and closing your window a chore. Before assessing your window for frame damage make sure you clean the tracks first.

I Can Feel a Draft – Contrary to what you might think, drafts are not okay. A drafty window should be replaced, immediately. Not only are drafty windows uncomfortable but they’re also costly. Your windows should be energy efficient and a drafty window is far from. While you might think that the draft is coming from tiny cracks between the window and the window frame this isn’t always the case, sometimes the glass itself is incapable of keeping cool air and warm air separate. If the glass easily allows air to pass through it, it’s time to replace it with a new, energy efficient model.

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