Most people like to imagine that windows are the eyes of a house and since the eyes are the windows to the soul, what people see of your windows reflects the soul of your home. Whether buying or selling, you want those eyes to be clear; showing the world that your home has a wonderful soul.
But how can you tell if the eyes of your home are sending the wrong message? Fortunately there are a few very simple telltales that you can check to make sure that your windows are in good shape.
Cracked / Broken Panes
More than likely, you already know if any of your windows are cracked. While usually obvious and small, cracks can eventually lead to big repairs is left unfixed. Shop around for a local glazier. Most of the time, replacing a pane of glass on older windows is pretty cheap. On newer windows, it may be just as easy to replace the whole window; often for about the same price.
Open / Close
The easiest testing method is also often the easiest fix. Open and close your window several times. Are there any places where it is difficult to slide or swing? Does it hang up and stop anywhere? If it does, look for anything blocking the pathway since the track is a favorite place for dust and other obstacles to collect and get in the way.
Check the sash for a good seal or broken lock since improperly closed windows can cause damage to the locking mechanism over time. Fortunately, these are inexpensive and easy to replace.
If your cranking casement window is hanging up, it is time to replace the crank operator or hinges. Over time, weight and pressure will bend the hinges and operator bar while constant use wears down the gear teeth.
Gaps
Every window is sealed around the outside with some form of caulking material. While the caulk is designed to shrink and expand with temperature and movement of the window, it does break down over time. Eventually, it becomes brittle and cracks appear, letting out your conditioned or heated air and sending your energy bill through the roof. Visually inspect around your windows for breaks in the seal. If you find any, it’s time for a fresh bead of caulk.
Condensation
When the outside and inside temperatures are far apart, the glass on your windows is a great indicator of energy loss; especially in winter. If it is freezing outside and toasty inside, take a look at your windows. If there are any holes or breaks in the installation, condensation will collect on the glass and casement. The amount of water will tell you the size of the problem. A small spot here and there means that you may just have a small crack in the sealant around the window or between panes. If the whole window is needs to be wiped off with a towel, it’s time for a major repair.
Window Screens
This is the icing on the cake. Nothing says “I don’t care about my home” more than torn or missing screens. Not only is it unsightly, but it hints at a lack of maintenance in other areas. If you can’t be bothered to replace something that simple, what else are you letting slip? It’s easy to make this minor repair with an inexpensive kit from any DIY store, usually takes less than an hour, and most kits have enough screen material to fix multiple windows.
Keeping your windows maintained improves the look of your home immensely. They are usually the first thing visitors notice and the biggest place to save or lose money to the utility company. Inspection and repair take very little time and money. Look around this weekend and ensure that the eyes of your house are bright and beautiful.