No one gives much thought about their windows when they’re functioning properly. But when your windows begin to fail, it’s easy to see their essential role in protecting your home against noise, temperature, the elements, and even home invaders.
Most people expect to have fully functioning windows for years after purchasing a brand-new or recently built home, but that is not always the case if the manufacturer supplied materials that were defective. It’s essential for new homeowners to know how to spot the signs of window failure, so they can prevent further damage to their home.
Draft
One of the most important functions of a window is to insulate the home when the weather is cool, and allow air into the home when the weather is hot. If you feel a draft through your window when it is fully closed, that is a strong sign that the seal is damaged.
A draft can be a minor annoyance, but over time it can contribute to a larger heating bill. It is prudent to have the window checked by an expert.
Outdoor Noise
Similar to a cold draft, being able to hear outdoor noise when your windows are fully closed could be a sign that your window seal is damaged in some way. Have an expert investigate your glass, window frame, and sashes to see which part of your window is the culprit.
Condensation
Condensation on your window is a tell-tale sign that your home is not ventilated properly, leading to an excess of moisture around your windows. This can lead to mildew and mold growth if not addressed, so it’s essential to repair or replace your window if you find condensation in between window glass panes, or along the sides or bottom of the glass. In some cases, the entire window does not need to be replaced - only a single panel of glass that is trapping moisture may need replacing, if you have a multiple-pane window.
Water Leaks
If water is leaking into your home, it’s likely that you have a gap in your window. Gaps around your window frames, caused by a window frame rotting or degradation of the caulking seal around your window, are a strong sign your windows need to be replaced as soon as possible. If unaddressed, your window failure can lead to costly and extensive wall and floor damage.
To address this, it is best to fully replace the windows, especially if the damage is caused by old building material that will only continue to deteriorate.
Premature Rotting
Most windows are rated to last between 10 to 20 years, depending on their construction materials. However, some unlucky homeowners have purchased homes constructed with defective windows. This means their windows are prone to premature rotting and degradation years before their advertised end of lifespan.
One recent case of this involves Windsor Windows, which is alleged to have manufactured and sold windows that are defective in design and engineering, despite advertising its windows as soundly constructed and guaranteed to last for at least 10 years. Some consumers who have purchased Windsor Windows have had to replace their windows years before expected in order to avoid damage to their drywall, insulation, and flooring. This replacement process is not only costly, but also a great inconvenience to homeowners.
If you’re unsure whether you have Windsor Windows in your home, contact your developer or the previous owner of your home and ask for details. If you discover your home is constructed with these defective windows, you may be able to seek compensation for window replacement costs and damages. Contact us at Morgan & Morgan and learn more about our ongoing Windsor Windows class action lawsuit today.
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