A GUIDE TO COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS
PART 1
KNOWING THE PROBLEM Windows are designed to provide long-term weather protection but being exposed to the elements 24/7 means they are bound to experience different kinds of problems down the line. While high-end windows tend to be more resistant to wear and tear, even those aren’t completely protected from common window problems. Fortunately, these problems don’t automatically spell doom for your windows. Knowing what causes each problem, what they can cause, and how to deal with them will go a long way towards making the most out of your windows.
A GUIDE TO COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS
KNOWING THE PROBLEM
MOISTURE DAMAGE
Water is one of the biggest causes of deterioration in windows. Rainwater that would have otherwise made its way into the home are effectively blocked out by the window, but that same water can get between the smallest gaps in the unit and stay there even after the rain stops. Water absorbed by wood’s porous surface can weaken it, causing the material to rot.
UV DAMAGE
If you think windows are safe as long as it’s not raining, think again. Ultraviolet rays can also pose a threat to windows, particularly their outermost surface. In some cases, constant exposure to the sun’s UV rays cause fading or discoloration, but the exposure can also cause paint or other protective layers to degrade and peel off much faster than expected.
A GUIDE TO COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS
KNOWING THE PROBLEM
IMPACT DAMAGE
During bad weather, strong winds tend to cause various objects to fly around, increasing changes of breaking windows due to impact. Take note though that impact damage doesn’t always have to result in a gaping hole in the middle of your window to be a concern; even small hairline cracks can cause all sorts of problems such as drafts and possible water leakage, weakening the entire glass area which can cause another problem when not addressed.
These outside factors might be nasty, but window problems can also be caused by the window itself! Read on to find out more in the second part of our e-book. A GUIDE TO COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS
PART 2
WINDOW PROBLEMS AN INSIDE JOB? There are instances when a window experiences a problem caused by something that it was supposed to be capable of handling in the first place. If outside factors are not to be blamed, the problem then must have started from the window itself. What could possibly make a window less resistant to external factors?
A GUIDE TO COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS
WINDOW PROBLEMS - AN INSIDE JOB?
POOR CHOICE OF STYLE
Although local regulations require windows to pass certain standards, some types of windows are still less durable than others, making them likelier to succumb to wear and tear sooner. If you live in an area prone to strong winds and storms, having windows featuring larger frames may be a problem for you as they have the tendency to catch more wind and are easier targets for flying debris.
POOR CHOICE OF MATERIALS
There is more to materials than just their appearance and price tag. It may appear practical to go for the cheapest window options around but it is almost always a sure way to waste money because they are likelier to give out easily. There is also the fact that some window materials simply fare better than others under certain circumstances. For example, metal windows may be great for areas with drier climates, but they won’t do as well in damp and humid areas where they are prone to rust. A GUIDE TO COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS
WINDOW PROBLEMS - AN INSIDE JOB?
POOR INSTALLATION
Simply having the right kind of material is not enough to ensure your window’s durability. In some cases, it’s the installation process itself that causes problems for a window, when done poorly. A small mistake in measurement, for instance, can result in problems such as poor ventilation, difficulty in operation, and overall increased wear and tear to the window. This is also the biggest reason why window experts discourage DIY window installations.
POOR PLACEMENT
You can have a properly installed window made of great materials, but you also need to have your windows in a proper location to further avoid problems. A casement window opening outward onto a garage or a pathway can get hit by the car or people passing through. Constantly getting hit, even though mildly, will make a window need replacing sooner than expected. Furthermore, a poorly placed windows is hampered from performing its best, prevented from addressing ventilating or insulating needs you might have.
You know the problems, but how should you deal with them? Find out how you can take window problems head-on in the last part of our e-book A GUIDE TO COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS
PART 3
ADDRESSING COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS Common windows are a pain to deal with, but they’re worse if left ignored. It’s easy to think that the best thing to do is “fix” the problem, but how do you go about dealing with common window problems?
A GUIDE TO COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS
ADDRESSING COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS
STEP 1 - Try to avoid them in the first place
It’s true that common window problems are bound to happen anyway, but that doesn’t mean they have to show up that frequently. By keeping your window in good shape through routine maintenance, you can easily prevent situations where something as simple as moisture buildup would lead to something more serious. A few minutes a month spent on cleaning your windows, for instance, can spare you a lot of trouble later on.
STEP 2 - Learn to identify the first signs of problems
The best time to deal with a problem is when it’s still easy to control. Find out more about the first signs of common window problems and understand what discolorations, “bubbles” in the coating, and other mean. Moving into action at the first sign of a problem will not only make it easier for you to solve but will also be less expensive.
STEP 3 - Refrain from DIY
Just like in window installation, attempting a window repair on your own is usually not recommended. Unless you have a lot of experience dealing with window problems, it’s better to leave all the repairs and more-complicated maintenance tasks to someone who has the right tools and skills. Limit your DIY attempts to the smallest fixes (tightening loose screws or painting over chipped paint) and have an expert deal with more extensive repairs like frame adjustments or total window replacements.
STEP 4 - Get rid of potential window wreckers
A branch dangling too close to the window, a ladder leaning against the house, knickknacks on the window sill--these are all possible threats to your windows. It’s very important to keep the area around your windows clear to reduce chances of it getting damaged. Windows won’t last forever but you can make the most out of yours by simply being mindful of a few things. A GUIDE TO COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS
TITTLE BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION 787 Southfield Road Lincoln Park, MI 48146
877-228-5658 www.TittleBrothers.com
A GUIDE TO COMMON WINDOW PROBLEMS