Now that spring has arrived, you may notice that your windows have seasonal damage or are operating differently. Issues such as drafts and tough hinges have simple fixes, but problems like wood warping could require window replacement. Here are some of the most common types of damage windows experience and how to address them.

Common Issues Windows Experience

1. Condensation

If there’s too much warm moisture inside your house, it could cause interior condensation on your colder windows. If you spot condensation forming between two window panes, their insulation seal has broken, allowing outdoor air to seep into your home. Have a window contractor inspect their seal to decide if you need replacement. To prevent condensation, use fans when taking hot showers or a  dehumidifier to reduce the humidity in your home.

2. Leaks

If rainwater is making its way through your windows, you likely have a leak along their edge. Reapply caulking or weather stripping around the panes, which will prevent rainwater from seeping through the cracks and reduce drafts.

3. Difficult Operation

The natural moisture inside wood causes windows to swell and contract with temperature shifts. In hot, humid weather, they can start to stick and become difficult to open and close. Reduce the friction on the track by rubbing it with bar soap. If the issue is in the closure, apply lubricating oil to the hinges and knobs.

4. Warping

When the wood of your windows absorbs too much moisture from the environment, it can start to warp. Not only does warping result in gaps that can lead to drafts, leaks, and bugs entering your home, but the excessive moisture that caused it can also result in rot. Warping is permanent, so if the wood on your windows is misshapen or rotting, have them replaced with new ones.

If you need to repair or replace a window, contact Shepard's Glass in Kalispell, MT. Since 1959, this family-owned and -operated business has provided Flathead Valley residents with window and door services, including installation, repairs, and routine maintenance on all things glass. To schedule a consultation, call (406) 755-4540.