9 Causes of Leaky Windows

One of the main reasons to ensure your windows are watertight is to keep moisture out of the walls. Once inside your walls, moisture can cause rot, mold and pest problems. Keeping water at bay would be easier, of course, if our homes had no openings for doors and windows. But of course houses do have what those in the building trades refer to as penetrations. And wherever there is a penetration, there had better be extra protection. (For best results, consult the manufacturer's instructions.) Read More

Finding The Source of a Leaky Window

At one time or another, almost all windows leak, which is becoming a huge problem because of all the consumer concerns about molds in the home. Molds and decay organisms need water to grow, and the growth can be inside the walls, out of view.

Check the exterior window and door openings twice a year for peeled or damaged caulk. Remove the damaged caulking and clean the frame of the window or door before recaulking. Read More

Save energy: 8 Steps to Window Weatherizing

the average unweatherized house in the U.S. increases the heating bill by 25-40 percent. That difference could be very expensive this year, as anyone who heats with oil or gas knows. Now more than ever, window weatherizing is a chore worth attending to, because with weatherizing you could make up the difference of the current high cost of heating.

The west-facing windows are most likely to catch the prevailing winds, so do them first; the north-facing windows will be exposed to the coldest air, so do them second. The east-facing windows are next. Southern windows, facing the sun, are probably the least vulnerable, so they can wait till last.

8 steps to window weatherizing

Aluminum Screen and Window introduce Indow Windows

Storm Windows

If you have old windows in your home, the best way to improve your home's energy efficiency is to replace them with new, energy-efficient windows. However, if you're on a tight budget, a less expensive option is to use storm windows. Some types of storm windows are also a good option for those living in apartments. Types of Storm Windows

Energy Tips for Existing Window 

If the time is not right for a window upgrade, you can still save energy and money.

Take these steps:

• • Caulk and seal around non-moving parts of windows.
• • Close window coverings to block daytime summer heat.
• • In winter, consider temporary, plastic storm-window kits.

 

Maximum $1,500 per household for all energy-efficiency measures combined, including windows, roofing, insulation, HVAC, and water heaters. See the ENERGY STAR Web site for details.

What do you want a window to do?

Selecting new or replacement windows can be overwhelming with all the styles, materials and features to choose from. In addition, as this project is a major investment with windows expected to last up to 20 years, doing some homework before you make any decisions can save on headaches later on. (read more on finding the right window)

Weatherproofing and Windows  

Late summer is a great time to think about weather proofing your home's windows before the Oregon rains set in for fall.

Before you do any weatherstripping, check your windows for old or missing glazing compound and for broken glass or panes. These must be corrected before adding any new weatherstripping. Weatherstripping products are available at your local home improvement store. Aluminum Screen & Window Co Inc. can help with re-glazing any cracked or broken glass replacement.

A little bit of window work can keep your home cozy this winter and save you money in gas and electric bills.