Replacing your old windows can boost your home’s curb appeal and energy efficiency. But it’s important to choose the right type of window to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Window replacement is available in a variety of materials and styles to fit your home’s architecture. Choose a durable, low-maintenance frame material like vinyl, wood or fiberglass. Consider double-pane glass with energy-efficient features such as low-E coatings and argon gas fills. Reach out Window Replacement Ellicott City, MD for comprehensive assistance.
Windows take quite a beating throughout the year from the elements, including extreme temperatures, wind, rain, snow, hail, and ice. A single errant baseball or thrown rock can crack an otherwise perfectly fine windowpane and require immediate replacement. Depending on the severity of the crack, your repair options may be limited to replacing the pane or installing a new frame entirely.
Before attempting any repairs, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses. You should also cover floors or furniture in the area with a drop cloth to prevent damage. If you decide to replace the window, don’t forget to order a replacement pane that matches the original dimensions. This will ensure the new pane is installed correctly and help to maintain the window’s weather resistance and energy efficiency.
If your windows are older and have double or triple-panes, check for cracked or chipped glass. This is often a sign that the seals are failing and your home is losing heat in winter and cooling in summer. Air leaking out of windows also contributes to moisture and mold problems. Foggy windows are another common problem that can be caused by seal failure, but they usually require a full window replacement rather than just the glass.
The first step in repairing a broken window is to remove the sash, which is usually done by carefully chiseling away at the glazing putty with a utility knife. Be careful not to damage the frame or the sash in this process. After removing the sash, you’ll need to clean the frame and prepare it for a new pane. Be sure to measure the width and length of the window opening, subtracting 1/8 inch from each side for ordering the correct size pane.
If your frame has wood exterior casing, consider replacing it with a new primed wood casing or low-maintenance vinyl or PVC products to protect the rest of the house from water and moisture leaks. Replacing rotten or damaged casing also helps to improve the appearance of your home’s exterior.
Leaky Seals
As the name suggests, window seals create a barrier that keeps water, air and other elements out of your home. Over time, however, this barrier can break down. This is especially true in areas that experience frequent moisture and temperature changes.
Leaky windows are not only costly, but they can also damage the frame and sill. This can lead to mold and wood rot. In addition, it can cause your windows to lose their energy efficiency. If your windows are leaking, they should be repaired as soon as possible.
Signs of a broken window seal include condensation between the panes, visible cracks or gaps around the frames and increased noise pollution inside your home. You may also notice that your heating or cooling bills have increased significantly. If these symptoms persist, it’s time to consider a new window replacement.
The most common reason for a window seal failure is natural expansion and contraction of the materials used in the frame. During these fluctuations, the glass can shift and the sealant can loosen or even melt. The result is a gap that allows water, air and other contaminants to enter your home.
Another potential cause of a broken window seal is exposure to ultraviolet light. UV radiation can damage the polyisobutylene (PIB) in the sealant and cause it to deteriorate.
If the insulating argon or krypton gas between your windows leaks, your energy bills will rise and your comfort will suffer. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire window unit.
Fortunately, a broken window seal can often be repaired by applying a silicone sealant to the crack or gap in the frame. It’s important to clean the area first with rubbing alcohol and then apply a thin bead of sealant to ensure it adheres properly. This simple repair will not only keep the cold air and moisture out, but it will also help restore your home’s energy efficiency. You can find silicone sealant in any hardware store and most home improvement stores. Alternatively, you can hire a window specialist to repair the problem for you.
Leaking Frames
Leaking frames can cause moisture build-up in walls and other structures. This can lead to molds and other health issues for your family. If you notice water stains or see areas of water damage around your windows, it is important to make the necessary repairs as soon as possible.
Window leaks are often caused by old caulking or seals that wear down over time. This can be due to natural aging, operation of the window or even weather and climate changes. As the caulking or seals wear down, they can create tiny openings that allow cold air and water to enter your home.
This can lead to condensation that causes the paint on the frame to bubble and peel. In extreme cases, it can also cause wood rot and structural issues for your home. If you notice these problems, it is a good idea to reseal your window and consider replacing the old frame.
Another common reason for leaking frames is incorrect installation. Many times, installers clad the steel lintel – the angle that holds up the brick above – with flimsy capping instead of the correct materials. This prevents the water from draining properly, causing it to pool around the windows and eventually rust and leak into your home.
To avoid these issues, be sure to choose a reputable window installer for your replacement project. They should take the proper measures to protect your flooring and other sensitive furniture from dust and dirt during the process. They will also stage their equipment and materials in a protected area, such as your driveway or front porch, to minimize exposure to the elements.
Identifying the source of a leak can be challenging. Inspect your windows both indoors and out to see if you can find the problem. You can also use the candle test or a thermal camera to help pinpoint the issue.
The best way to fix a leaking frame is to reseal the area using silicone caulking. This can be a relatively easy DIY project, but be sure to remove any existing caulking and clean the window and frame before applying a new layer of caulk. Also, check the stone or brick walls surrounding your window to be sure there are no cracks or gaps that could be allowing water and cold air into your home.
Poor Energy Efficiency
A window’s energy efficiency can be impacted by several factors, including glazing, frame material, and air leakage. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) creates standards for a window’s energy ratings, which are determined by the solar heat gain coefficient, U-factor, visible transmittance, and air leakage. Choosing windows with higher energy ratings can help you save money on utility bills.
In order to improve a window’s energy efficiency, the glazing should be clear and free of cracks. The NFRC offers a window glass characterization test that can help you spot damaged glazing. It is also important to ensure that your windows are properly installed. If the frames aren’t level, plumb, and square they won’t be able to adequately insulate your home.
You should also consider the amount of sunlight your home receives, as the type of climate you live in will impact how much heat is transferred through a window. You can minimize heat transfer through your windows by using curtains or window films to block direct sunlight and utilizing exterior shading devices like awnings during the summer. Investing in double or triple-pane windows can significantly reduce heat and cooling costs by keeping the interior of your home more stable and minimizing drafts.
If your current windows have poor energy efficiency, you may be able to find rebates for energy efficient upgrades through local or state programs. The DSIRE database of state incentives for renewables and efficiency is a great resource to explore when researching energy efficiency options for your home.
Upgrading to newer, more efficient windows can significantly reduce your heating and cooling costs by reducing the amount of time your HVAC system runs. According to the Department of Energy, windows account for 25% to 30% of a household’s energy usage. High-efficiency windows are made with materials that promote better insulation, which reduces drafts and heat loss and enables your home to stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Upgrading to new windows that provide improved energy efficiency is one of the best ways to increase your home’s comfort and lower utility bills. Contact a window replacement company to discuss your project and learn more about the options available to you.
