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How to Be Sure That You Should Replace the Windows in Your Home?

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The weather is getting cold. Chilly air will seep in, causing the metal frames of your windows to rust; you’ll be forced to crank up the heater even though it’s not that difficult outside yet. The first signs you’ll notice are little puddles of water on your windowsill or a soggy carpet near a window. 

If this pattern continues, chances are those leaks will soon cause more severe problems, including rot in surrounding wood and insulation or mold growth through cracked paint or plaster. If you’ve been noticing more than a few of these signs, it’s time to think about replacing your windows:

  • Warped or Damaged Window Frames

Scratch the window frame to inspect for warping. If the wood feels damp, you should check this issue more closely by peering into your window’s mounting bars [the thin vertical pieces between your glass panes.) 

Water is getting between the mountings and causing heavy structural damage like rotting. When the temperature outside changes, your windows may not seal tightly, leading to drafts or cold spots in the house.

  • Leaky Windows

Look at the bottoms of your windows or check the small glass panels in the center of double-hung windows; they should be mostly clear, not opaque, with water droplets or frost. 

In addition, wipe down the top of your windows from inside your home to see if you notice water stains or droplets on the outside. Lifetime Exteriors serving all of Portland, OR, can solve all your home’s problems related to window replacement. 

  • Windows No Longer Seem Level or Rest Evenly on Their Frames

Windows should be parallel to one another and should rest evenly on their frames. They may need replacement if tilted or shifted farther out than their neighboring windows. 

Generally, windows having wood frames experience such problems as they start expanding due to continuous exposure to wind and moisture. If you are having trouble closing the windows properly, it’s time to replace them with a new set. 

  • Mold Spots!

Check underneath windowsills to see if any spots are growing around water leaks where the wood meets the floor or is exposed to air conditioning moisture as it seeps through cracks in the walls and floors. If you see mold on the window, it signifies that you have a bigger problem.

  • Spider Webs

Search for spiders building webs on or around your windows. It’s not likely that a spider would build its web anywhere near an undisturbed area; if there is a web near your window, it may be telegraphing water damage issues inside the walls. 

Check your windows for signs of sagging or bulging in the frame and bent or broken mountings or glass panes. All of these are serious indications that your windows will need replacement soon!

Conclusion

Windows should be replaced when there are visible signs of water damage, mildew, mold, or structural damage. Once the window is fixed and caulked, you can avoid further problems by sealing the caulk in a gap between windows and trim with silicone caulk. This will prevent new water leaks from coming through your home’s near future.