There's More to Window Leaks Than You Think - Towson, MD 

Do you get a monthly breakdown of your energy usage from your utility company? It's natural to wonder why you're gradually starting to pay a little more each month – and if there's anything you can do about it.

Window leaks are one of the most common — and insidious — causes of rising energy bills. In addition to wasting energy, leaks can encourage the growth of mold and mildew, which can aggravate asthma and lead to other health problems. Your wooden supports may begin to rot if the leak gets into the walls. If you follow the leak a few steps further, you might run into foundation issues. So what is the first step? 

Investigate the matter.

It all starts with a hunch: you walk past a particular window and feel a shiver run up your spine. Do you have a feeling of being dragged? It's time to look for leaks in your windows. There are a couple of options here. The most straightforward method is to conduct a thorough inspection of your windows. Is it difficult to completely close them? If they jiggle or require extra muscle to close, you may have a leaking sash. Are there any small gaps around the frame that you can see? Is there any damage to the glass? Take a look around. If the visual inspection is negative, the candle test is next.

Close and lock all of your windows and doors, close and lock your vents and dampers, and turn off any exhaust fans you have. After that, light a small candle and go for a walk. The candle flame will blow to one side and show you if there are any leaks or drafts. Another clue is to keep an eye on your curtain sheers. Your house isn't haunted if you see movement even when the windows are shut — there is a leak. The next time it rains, take a look at the area around your windows. After a storm, do the seams of your windows feel damp? 

How did the leak get there? 

What's causing your windows to leak? What caused this to happen? Windows deteriorate over time. If you have wooden windows, they may have warped due to moisture. A window's sealing components are critical to its operation, and they can wear out over time. It's also possible that your windows were never properly installed in the first place. A good window should last a long time, keep you safe from the elements, and help you save money on your energy bills. A leaking window, on the other hand, isn't doing its job.

It’s time to take action.

Recaulking and weather stripping may be necessary if you suspect that your window sealing components are the source of your leak. This DIY route isn't for beginners, but it can buy you some time depending on your skill level. On the internet, you can find instructional videos and articles. Before diving in, do your homework on resealing. Don't settle for a band-aid solution if you want true peace of mind. Make a call to the experts. You can trust that your windows will hold up over time and keep your home comfortable no matter what the weather is like when you hire certified and experienced window experts. It's time to fix those leaks so you can save money on your energy bills and avoid future structural issues.

Give Restoration 1 of Towson a call if your home has been impacted by mold or water damage caused by leaking windows and let us help you restore your home.