3 Signs Its Time To Replace The Windows In Your Home

Quality windows can last a long time, even longer if they’re properly installed. However, no windows last forever. As time goes by, your windows’ condition can start to deteriorate. Worn or damaged windows can compromise your home’s security and put an undue burden on your home’s heating and cooling system. If you haven’t inspected your windows in a while, you might not even be aware of these conditions. Here are three signs it’s time to call a carpenter in Ottawa about replacing the windows in your home.

1. Your Windows Are Unreasonably Difficult To Open or Close

As windows age, they often become unbalanced. Balance issues can cause windows to stick and jam instead of opening smoothly. Years of opening and closing a window can gradually throw off its balance. However, if rust or mould begins to form on or around the window, or if the window or frame begins to rot, new balance problems can develop, and existing balance issues will usually intensify.

Wooden windows and frames are especially prone to swelling and sticking, particularly in moist or humid conditions. These porous materials absorb moisture from their environment, causing them to swell. Over time, repeated swelling and shrinking can wreak havoc on your window and render it seriously off-balance.

It’s a good idea to occasionally walk through your house and open and close every window to ensure that each glides smoothly and latches securely. If it requires a substantial effort to open or close your windows properly, they may need to be replaced.

2. Your Window Frames Exhibit Signs of Decay and Water Damage

Year after year of hot summers and harsh Canadian winters can take a toll on your home’s windows. Your windows are constantly exposed to moisture, both from the air’s humidity and from rain, ice, snow, and other extreme weather. As the seals on your windows age, they’re also prone to condensation, which can exacerbate other moisture-related issues.

When wooden window frames absorb and retain moisture, mould, mildew, and rust can begin to form. These conditions eat away at the wood, and the rot can spread even when the moisture levels decrease. As windows expand and contract, they can warp and crack, which in turn allows more moisture in and leads to leaks.

If you notice visible signs of water damage on your window frames, or if the frames feel soft, look chipped, or appear to sag, it’s likely time to replace your windows.

3. You Constantly Notice Cold Drafts or Hot Air Near Your Windows

When you hold your hand near your window, do you feel hot or cold exterior air entering your home? Outside air infiltrating your windows could be caused by gaps, leaks, shifting framing, or failing seals. Air leaks introduce more moisture to the window and frame and cause more extreme temperature fluctuation at the window, which can lead to water damage and affect your window’s balance.

Perhaps more importantly, though, when air is leaking through your windows, your home’s heating and cooling systems must work harder to keep your house at a comfortable temperature. This can mean higher energy bills for you each month, and can also shorten the life of your HVAC equipment. Leaky windows may also introduce allergens and pests into your home. If your windows are allowing more than light to get through, they’ve likely reached the end of their lifespans.

Choose the Best Carpenter in Ottawa To Replace Your Home’s Windows

If your windows have seen better days, Handyman Connection is here to help. Our professional reputation and dedication to providing outstanding customer service have made us one of the top providers of repair services in Ottawa. Contact us for a an estimate or to learn more.