Feel a Draft? Here are the Top 5 Causes
You do what you can to keep your home comfortable, but for some reason, your HVAC system can’t seem to keep up. You walk into certain rooms and feel a distinct chill. The likely cause is a draft coming through your windows. These often occur because of a sealing defect around the outside frame. With the colder months ahead you want to solve this problem as quick as you can. Drafty windows not only make certain areas of your home uncomfortable, but they also drive up your heating costs and could be a security risk. Here are a few common conditions that lead to drafty windows and what you can do to correct the problem:
1. Age
The most common problem is windows simply break down over time. Even if you don’t frequently open and close your windows, the components wear out and the seals are compromised. If your windows are over 20 years old you should have a professional come to assess the structural integrity.
2. Poor Installation
If your windows are fairly new, another common cause of air leaks is improper installation. That is why installing new windows is a job best left to the professionals in the area. Not only do they know about a wide range of windows to get you the right products, but they also have the skills and tools to get the job done right.
3. Wear and Tear
Exposure to the elements also causes damage. Extreme temperatures cause warping or cracks. Basically, the expansion and contraction of cheaper materials mean the frame does not expand and contract at the same rate as the glass, resulting in seal failure. Moisture can also lead to condensation and pooling. In turn, the water causes mildew and mold, and not just along the window frame. Or the water could freeze and expand, breaking the seals that way.
4. Improper and Inadequate Maintenance
Some parts of your windows will require routine maintenance. Using mild detergent and water, you should routinely clean your windows to remove dirt and debris. You should also lubricate the tracks and check the weather stripping for damage. Do your best to follow manufacturer instructions to ensure your windows get proper maintenance.
5. Accidents
This one is pretty obvious. Broken glass, even if it is just one of your window panes, will compromise your seals and render your windowless efficient.
The Best Solution for Your Drafty Windows
Sometimes plastic window wrap, storm windows, or new weather stripping can help mitigate air infiltration, but these are all temporary solutions. Ultimately you will want to get in touch with a professional and invest in replacement windows. At Home Supply Window and Doors we offer a wide range of high-quality products. You are sure to find the best windows to suit your needs. Just call us at 973-949-5401 to set up a free, in-home consultation. Or you can visit us at 160 Van Winkle Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506 to check out some of our products firsthand.
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