As the cold temperatures begin to ease, homeowners shift into Spring cleaning mode. It’s also the perfect time to add a post-winter window checkup.
“Spring is a great time to check your windows thoroughly, both inside and out,” said David Schmier, sales director at Wallside Windows. “Look for signs of wear and tear that were hidden by cold, snow and ice.”
His first step? Start with the window screen.
Though they are removeable, homeowners typically leave screens in place year-round for convenience. That just requires a little extra attention come spring.
“As temperatures start to warm and insects begin showing up, Spring is the right time to check screens for torn mesh, gaps between mesh, and bends in the screen frame,” said Schmier. “All of these can result in insect infiltration when we open windows to enjoy the warmer fresh air.”
Then, it’s time to inspect further.
The biggest impact on a window’s performance is not moisture, but temperature. Here in Michigan, winter weather can drop from a 40-degree high to sub-zero in just one day. Those changes take a toll on our homes. The materials used to construct a window are susceptible to expanding when temperatures rise and contracting when temperatures drop.
Schmier shared a few signs of wear and tear to look for as we move into warmer temperatures:
•Window caulk may fail – Air penetration can leave gaps that reduce energy efficiency. it can also leave space for moisture to seep into the wooden studs that hold a window in place. And trapped moisture leads to a bigger concern – rot and mold.
What it looks like: Check for bubbling paint around the window – especially on interior walls just below the right and left corners of a window. Look out for water on the window sill after rain or snow. Be aware of peeling paint or visible wood rot. If a sill feels soft to the touch, it’s rotting from moisture and need replacement.
•Window seals can fail – Expansion and contraction puts pressure on glass.
What it looks like: Check for water droplets or a fogginess between the panes of glass. Schmier said it’s most evident in the morning after a cool night. “As temperatures heat up during the day, that trapped moisture can evaporate, but it leaves behind dirt and mineral deposits that were suspended in the moisture,” he said. “Eventually the window gets so fogged over, it’s almost completely opaque.”
•Weather stripping can fail or gap – This allows air flow and lowers the energy efficiency of a window.
What it looks like: Missing, brittle or torn weather stripping lets more air or moisture into a home.
•Windows begin to warp – Warping window frames and sashes causes gaps where two sashes of a window meet, resulting in air and moisture infiltration.
What it looks like: Bowing or a curvature of the window frame can also lead to lock failure.
“On a double hung window, this is when the pivoting lock handle no longer lines up with the keeper or strike plate,” Schmier said. “The obvious concern here is security.”
To maintain personal safety, energy efficiency and keep your windows working properly, a spring maintenance check-up makes all the difference. It’s a move that can save money, too.
If you have questions about the state of your own Wallside Windows, they’re protected with our unmatched 35-year guarantee. Reach out for service.
Homeowners looking for window replacement can sign up for a free estimate at https://wallsidewindows.com/estimate. We’re here to help.
