During the colder months, it can be easy to miss potential problems with your windows. As the weather warms up, however, there are some tell-tale signs to look for that can indicate your windows need to be repaired or replaced. Here are four signs your windows need attention in 2023:
Visible moisture inside the glass. Condensation happens when the air inside our home is warmer than the air outside, and while the simple solution for moisture on the inside of the window is to wipe it away, moisture inside the window itself is a sign of a bigger problem. When condensation is present between panes of glass, there is a break in the seal around the window, and while this might seem like a small issue, it can easily turn into a much bigger problem. Damaged seals can reduce the life expectancy of your windows, and can quickly turn into a much bigger moisture problem than when first noticed. Pay attention to the seals around any windows that attract condensation, and if they are starting to look tired and worn, it’s time to think about replacing them.
Harder to open and close. It can be easy to think that the signs your windows need attention will be visible, but how the windows work is also an important indicator to consider. As the temperatures start to rise and opening your windows becomes a more frequent activity, take note of how easy that is, and how well the window opens, closes, seals, and moves on its hinges. Mechanically, a window that isn’t working well is not just inefficient, it also reduces the security of your home, and that makes it even more important to stay on top of how your windows function.
Noticeable draught. Airflow problems with your window can be difficult to identify but costly if left unchecked. Don’t wait until you can visibly notice the window treatments moving in the breeze – run your fingers around each window regularly to ensure there is no obvious airflow that could affect the energy efficiency of your home. As you feel for any draughts, run your eyes over the seal as well and notice any cracks, breaks, or potential damage that may mean a draught is on its way. As mentioned above, damaged seals can also bring about moisture issues, so even if there isn’t a draught yet, any damage you notice now will reduce the damage caused later.
Higher energy bills. This is a hard one to gauge because energy prices have risen so much over the past couple of years, but the price isn’t the key factor to consider here. What you want to pay attention to is the amount of energy you are using, rather than the amount you are paying. Take a look at your past few energy bills and compare them to the energy usage a year prior. Is there a noticeable increase in how much energy your home is using? If there is a significant jump, it may be time to look at your windows (and doors!) and make sure there are no leaks or issues with the seals. After all, you don’t want to lose any of the heat from your home, and if you don’t deal with any issues now, they become more expensive issues later.
Windows are an important functional and design feature in your home, but too often, we neglect to maintain and check their well-being. Take some time this month to check each window in your home, and note any areas of concern. If you’re unsure whether they need maintenance or repair just yet, chances are they might. Well-maintained windows are an asset to your home for many years to come, so spending a little time (and possibly money) on them now will save you time, money, and energy in the years to come.