One of the purposes of a window is to block airflow. It’s never great when cool air escapes or when hot air circulates around your home in the summer. A window can stop that, thanks to working weatherstripping and seals. If the seals are damaged, however, problems will ensue. Here’s why damaged or weakened seals can ruin your windows. Learn more about how to deal with this problem before getting new replacement windows.
What a Damaged Seal Does
Many windows now use double- or triple-pane glass, which makes them more airtight. However, a window needs the seal to completely prevent drafts. The seal works with the glass to restrict circulation. If it works properly, you will feel no draft.
If you feel a draft or notice your energy costs going up, that could be a sign of an air leak. It’s not uncommon for homes to have a failed seal. If the air does escape, you’ll be spending more to control the indoor temperature. You’ll also risk having water leaks since rain can also seep in through these seals.
How to Find It
The best way to look for a failed seal is through a visual inspection. Check every window in your home. Any source of leakage is enough to cause problems, and you never know how many exist. Even minor leaks should be checked. If left alone, they can develop into serious problems within a couple of years.
The common sign of a leaking window is a draft. Stand next to your closed window, and feel around for a flow. Another sign is when the glass fogs up, a sign of condensation inside. The glass could also warp, a definite sign of deterioration.
How to Fix It
Once you find these leaks, the best way to deal with them is by calling a professional. Hiring a contractor to replace these seals is a surefire way of having the issue properly addressed. If the window is badly affected, consider getting it replaced. At WMGB Home Improvement, we offer high-quality vinyl replacement windows. The vinyl makes our windows low maintenance, which means you get a longer-lasting window that won’t need to be maintained as much.
To learn more about our window options, call us today at (616) 328-6625. We serve many areas in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids, MI.
