Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Windows

Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Windows

Chances are you're pretty sure you know all there is to know about windows. They’re made of glass, they open and shut, and your cat likes to curl up in front of them. But there comes a time in every homeowner’s life when you need to know a little more. Let’s consider some possible scenarios:

Your windows are cold and drafty.

If your curtains are blowing in the breeze -- and your window is shut -- you may need to take action. You have lots of choices, depending on your budget and your tolerance for frostbite:

• Caulk or weather-strip around the edges of the window to reduce air leakage.
• Add a storm window. These range from inexpensive sheets of plastic to deluxe triple-track glass units with low-e coatings.
• Replace your windows with new, airtight, energy efficient models. Obviously, this is your most expensive option, but it's also the most effective.

There is moisture between the panes of glass.

This would indicate that the seal between the two panes of glass has failed. Contact the manufacturer if possible, or call a glass company to inquire about having the glass replaced.

There is moisture on the inside pane of glass.

The humidity in your home is a bit too high. Dehumidify, turn down your humidifier, add bathroom vent fans or open some windows from time to time.

Your drapes and furniture are fading.

Dermatologists have been telling us for years to stay out of the sun. The same holds true for your furniture. Too much sunlight will fade fabrics and dry out wood surfaces. To prevent your furniture's premature aging, add window shades or have your sunny windows coated with a plastic glazing material. Be sure to inquire about warranties, as less expensive glazing materials can crack, flake or even cause your window seals to fail.

You just don't like your windows.

Fair enough. Maybe they stick in their rusty metal tracks. Maybe they're all boring rectangles, and you'd like a nice arch here and there. Today's windows are beautiful, stylish and energy efficient. Replacement windows let you:

• Cut your heating and cooling costs
• Improve your ventilation
• Harmonize your windows with your décor
• Create a better view
• Allow light through while blocking unwanted heat and UV rays

Take some time to compare the different materials available: aluminum, wood, vinyl and fiberglass. Get estimates from several companies, and compare maintenance, warranties, costs and energy savings. With a tremendous variety of materials, styles, shapes and sizes to choose from, new windows are bound to give your home a bright outlook on life!

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