Drafty windows are one of the possible suspects behind a larger-than-expected electricity bill. According to the Department of Energy, heat gain and loss through windows account for 25% to 30% of residential heating and cooling costs. If you have drafty windows, this figure is expected to increase.
What are the usual suspects behind window damage?
The Usual Suspects Behind Drafty Windows
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Brittle glazing putty – Rattling sounds are a sign that the glazing putty keeping your windows’ glass panes in place has turned brittle. Since the glass putty can no longer hold the window panes firmly in place, gaps (through which warm air can infiltrate your home) will inevitably emerge.
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Extreme temperatures – Gaps between the glass panes and the window frame may also emerge if your windows’ frame materials aren’t suited to the local climate. When exposed to abrupt changes in temperature, certain frame materials contract and expand. Over time, repeated contractions and expansions may cause the window panes to shift and open up gaps. To minimize thermal movement in your windows, it’s important to choose energy-efficient windows made of materials that can handle the local climate.
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Age – Age is another possible suspect behind window seal failure. Over time, the sealing on window glass will become worn and eventually fail.
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Installation errors – Installation errors can damage the sealing on your windows, drastically shortening their lifespan.
Should You Repair or Replace Drafty Windows?
Window repairs may seem more cost-effective at first. However, they’re likely to cost you more in the long run. When the sealing on your windows’ insulated glass unit fails, the argon and krypton (two nontoxic gases that prevent heat transfer) trapped within the space between glass panes escapes. Repairs can fix the sealing on the insulated glass unit, but they can’t refill the insulated glass unit and restore its energy efficiency. That’s why in the long run, it makes more financial sense to get new ENERGY STAR® windows.
Looking for an energy-efficient window replacement?
Renewal by Andersen® of Southwest Missouri offers a wide variety of quality replacement windows. To schedule a free consultation, call us at (417) 268-9301, or fill out this form.
