As the cold weather sets in, many homeowners look to improve the energy efficiency of their houses to reduce monthly heating bills. In some cases, window replacements and repairs can prevent heat loss to help your HVAC work more efficiently. To help you determine whether your home could benefit from this, here are a few signs to look for.

How to Know if Your Windows Are Leaking Heat

1. You Can Feel Cold Air

A drafty house is a sure sign that the windows, and possibly the doors, are letting heat out and the cold air in. Place your hand in front of the glass and compare that to the feeling of placing your hand in front of a wall. If the area around the window is noticeably colder, you may have a draft.  

Old windows are common culprits. If you find this is happening with new ones, upgrade to double-pane options.

2. The Weatherstripping Is Damaged

Even if you have newer windows or double glazing, if the weatherstripping is damaged, missing, or ill-fitting, air will likely escape.

Inspect the area around each fixture. As necessary, recaulk any gaps or worn areas. 

3. There Is Condensation 

In double- or triple-pane windows, fog indicates that moisture is getting in between the panes. This happens when their interior seals break, letting in warm air. Since seals can’t be repaired, you may need a glass thermopane replacement.

4. The Glass Is Broken

Many homeowners live with small window cracks for years without replacement. Unfortunately, air will escape through even small crevices, impacting energy use. If any windows in your home have cracked glass, you can often replace the panes while preserving the frame for a cost-effective solution.

5. The Windows Stick

A wooden window frame and casement is affected by the weather. In the summer, humidity makes wood expand, while the cold weather makes it shrink. Humidity may have also caused rot and warping in sections of the unit. 

If your wooden windows catch or don’t close tightly, the fixtures may be weathered. In this case, window replacements will improve the aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency of the home.

If you need window replacement or repairs in Waukesha, WI, call BGS Glass Service. They offer complete window solutions for Southeastern Wisconsin, including energy-efficient options. They also work on storm doors, storefronts, and shower doors. They’ve been family-owned and -operated since the late 1960s. Learn more about replacing your home’s windows on their website or call (262) 513-2806 for a quote.