The last thing you want in your home is drafty windows. They allow heated or cooled air to escape your home while letting in outside drafts. Drafts usually occur due to a problem with a window’s weatherstripping or seal. This defect can appear around the outside edge of the frame, where the frame and the glass meet or anywhere that panes of glass overlap, open or move.
Window drafts not only cause discomfort, but those drafts can also rapidly increase the cost of heating and cooling. No one wants to have to deal with this issue, so it is better to know how to stop window drafts before they begin.
1. Advanced Wear and Tear
While most high-quality windows can last decades, normal wear and tear do take its toll. As you use your windows, the weatherstripping can become compacted, twisted or worn away. Even a small patch of worn-out weatherstripping could result in a cold spot in your home. Eventually, frames break down, and you will start to notice gaps where the outside air enters your home.
2. Aging Window and Frame
Even if you do not frequently open or close a window, the pane and frame may still be affected by age. Over time, wooden frames can crack or warp, leaving small gaps that can let in cold air. If your windows are over 20 years old, or you do not know how old they are, have a professional assess their structural integrity to determine if age has made the windows drafty.
3. Extreme Outdoor Temperature Changes
Weather can have a significant impact on the condition of your windows. Extreme heat or cold will cause certain window materials (like wood) to expand and contract. It can warp, chip, crack and fade because of fluctuations in temperature. If you live in an area with extreme seasonal temperatures, choose energy-efficient replacement windows materials specifically designed not to expand or contract like aluminum or high-quality wood.
4. High Levels of Moisture
When your windows are exposed to more moisture, there’s a higher chance that water will seep under the seal and break it. Once the seal is broken, more air and moisture can get in, causing more damage. Whenever you notice condensation on your windows, wipe it away with a dry cloth to minimize the risk of water damage. If you want moisture resistance, you should look at getting fiberglass or vinyl windows.
5. Inadequate or Incorrect Maintenance
Whether they’re new or old, you need to take care of your windows. Most window materials are sturdy and require very little maintenance. You just need to keep them clean, and dry and lubricate the tracks regularly. Cleaning any exposed weatherstripping is also important. And, if you notice any cracks or dents, get your windows repaired.
6. Poor Installation
Proper Installation takes knowledge, precision and skill. If you choose to get replacement windows, have them installed by a reputable professional. If not, it might result in any number of issues, including broken seals and drafts.
7. Unaddressed Mold
Moisture and window leaks often lead to mold. It can seep into the tracks, get inside the wall and cause all kinds of damage. So, if you notice mildew, clean it with an alcohol-based solvent immediately, or ask professional help for removal. However, some advanced drafts require replacement. Hire the experts for help with this.
Renewal by Andersen® Midwest stands as the exclusive supplier of top-quality wood composite windows and Andersen® patio doors to Queen City. We offer a full range of window products, from traditional double-hung to custom-built specialty windows, to add efficiency, beauty and value to your home. Call us today at (866) 609-5033, or fill out our convenient request form to get a free quote on service.
