I am often asked by home owners what do I look for that indicates replacement windows are needed. So I decided to share with our greater Pittsburgh community some of the stronger signs to keep an eye on. As a side note, I am not trying to make a quick “sale”, but I wanted to answer a very frequent question I get asked. I believe that this can help and save you some big bucks.
Windows are one of those items that can either be fixed early and affordably, or later but at a much greater cost (leakage and mildew inside of walls can cause serious damage, frozen pipes, heating systems working way too hard, and so forth).
Keep an eye on any of the following issues, and if you feel like you need a second opinion, please reach out:
- Moisture in between the panes of glass, indicating a failed seal. Remember that your windows are supposed to give you some insulation. If your double glaze or triple glaze windows are compromised then your heating and cooling systems will have to work much harder to maintain comfort.
- Older windows that do not stay up or lock properly, may possibly have faulty/old balancers.
- Any signs of water infiltration (moisture or water marks on wood or drywall). This may become a much more serious issue if not addressed immediately. Mold loves moisture so keep an eye on this as well.
- Any gaps/cracks that allow air infiltration. Try this out. On a very cold and/or windy day rub your hands together to warm them up and then slowly glide your hand around the perimeter of your window. You can definitely feel the wind coming in, and that’s a big no-no.
- High energy bills in your home indicating poorly insulated window glass units or poor insulation around the window master frame. Keep a track of your bills and how much gas, oil or electricity you are using. If the average outside temperature is going up, but you’re using the same amount of energy then something is off.
- Cracked glass. This is an easy one but I can’t tell you how many people have had curtains or shades partially or fully closed for months! Open it all up and take a look. You may have a small crack that you don’t see because its hidden behind curtains.
I hope these simple points can help you identify troubled spots. Also, I strongly recommend that every home owner walks around their house at the end of each season and thoroughly visually inspects their home. A simple visual review of your windows, siding, foundation, behind the plants, doors, corners, and so on can reveal small and quick projects that can be done affordably, saving you lots of headaches down the road.
Talk to a Replacement Windows Inspector! You may also call us at: Beaver Valley 724-728-0988 or Monroeville 412-373-0414
Use the following handy links to find driving directions to our shop.
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