House Hunting in New Jersey? Window Issues Could Be Signs of Bigger Issues

What do the House’s Windows Tell You About the Structural Integrity of the Whole Building?

Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey replacement window consultants strive to give our current customers – and future customers – solid information to help them make wise buying decisions. As we read the latest real estate market news, it looks like home sales are finally starting to stabilize in our area. That’s good news.

Thirty out of thirty-seven homes listed on the 2014 West Orange sold inventory list for December 2014 closed at or above 95 percent of the listing price. This might indicate that homeowners and home seekers are pretty much in agreement about the valuation in our area. While the average number of days on the market is falling – it’s currently around 118 days – home buyers should still exercise caution as they look for the home of their dreams.

If you’re planning to invest in a new home, don’t forget to take a windows checklist with you. If you find a home you love, but the windows are less than appealing, contact us before you make an offer. Problems with the windows could also be signs of major structural issues that you would want to be aware of before submitting an offer to purchase the house. Even if the problems are only with the windows themselves, replacement windows can be a significant investment in home remodeling and you might be able to get a concession from the seller if you know you’re going to have to spend money to remodel soon after moving in.

Here’s a rundown of important issues to watch for as you navigate your house-hunting journey.

What’s That Hard to Open Window Telling You?

Struggling to open a stuck window is definitely annoying. But, did you know that opening and closing windows and doors is a quick way to check for clues about structural issues?

• If doors stick and hang when you open them, the home may be shifting. Foundation failure could cost thousands of dollars to repair.
• Spaces, separations and cracks around the window and caulking could also indication foundational issues.
• Do the windows look crooked or out-of-square? This could be due to flimsy frames, structural incompatibility or again, foundation issues and settling.

How Old are the Windows?

Newer ENERGY STAR certified windows add value to a home and new technology and innovative designs can impact many things, including ease of operation and cleaning.

Approximately 64 million homes built before lead-based paint was banned contained lead paint – especially on trim and window sills. Hiring a lead-abatement professional to remediate the home could potentially cost thousands of dollars. If the home was built before 1978 and you find peeling paint around the windows, request a lead sample before making an offer.

Window styles and designs in older homes often add to the unique personality and charm that attracted you to the property. But, peeling, flaking window sills and frames often signal out-of-date windows that most likely contribute to higher utility bills and cold, drafty corners.

Older window glass was, well, glass. Advances in technology mean newer windows, like our Renewal by Anderson of New Jersey line of replacement windows, do more than give you a crystal clear view of the world outside. Manufacturing treatments and applications provide numerous benefits like solar heat and ultraviolet protection and visible light management.

Are These Windows Safe for My Family?

Not all double-hung windows are created equal. While older and newer double-hung windows feature two moveable sash that allow you to open the upper portion for ventilation without having to worry young children will fall through the open window, our easy-clean double-hung windows do more.

Tilt-in designs allow cleaning from inside your home and eliminate the need for ladders and step stools which increase hazard risks.

Print Your Checklist

• Open and close every door.
• Look for gaps, separation and spacing around window panes.
• Watch for sagging and drooping frames.
• Check locks and operational handles.
• Do windows have single-pane, double-pane or triple pane construction.
• Frame check: flaking, peeling, rot, dents, mildew, missing.
• Safety and Security: Quick release guard mechanisms, multi-locking points, recessed locks and levers.

Enjoy Your New Home: Add Comfort, Convenience & Beauty with Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey Replacement Windows and Patio Doors

Buying a new home is exciting. It’s always a privilege to help new homeowners create beautiful, energy-efficient spaces they are proud to show off to friends and family.

While you’re touring homes in the area, make sure you print out the checklist and test every window and door for potential problems. We can’t help you with foundation issues or lead remediation, but we can offer you a wide selection of window styles and accessories guaranteed to save you time, money and frustration.

Just fill in the short form on this page or give us a call toll-free at (866) 609-5033 for more tips or to schedule a walk-through of your new home.

Check out this post for more information on what to do if your windows are leaking.