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Homeowners in Grand Rapids and the surrounding Western Michigan area experience a significant shift in weather each season, which can cause a lot of problems over time, especially if you have older windows.
Most single-family homes in the Grand Rapids area were built before 2000, so if you are living with the original windows, they're at least two decades old by now. And if previous owners didn't maintain those windows, you're even more likely to deal with drafts, seal failure, frame damage, and more, all of which can contribute to high heating bills in your Michigan home.
In this guide, we'll go over some of the most common signs that you need new windows and how Window Nation in Grand Rapids can help you get energy-efficient replacement windows that automatically come with a lifetime warranty.
1.) Drafty and Poor Insulation
Your home is likely a victim of drafts if you consistently notice the same cold spots near your windows. Drafts are a result of a variety of underlying issues, including seal failure, cracks and gaps, poor insulation, and more.
When dealing with drafty windows in Grand Rapids, your home must work much harder to keep the heat, or AC, at your preferred temperature, which leads to higher utility bills and overworked HVAC units.
2.) Visible Cracks in the Glass
Broken or cracked glass is a more obvious, visual sign that you need to replace your windows. Not only is broken glass dangerous, but it could also give intruders an easy way into your home if located on the ground floor.
Cracked glass can also contribute to rain or snow leaking into your home, which causes bigger problems in the long run.
3.) Rotting Window Frames
Wood windows are most often found in older, historical homes. While their charm can impact curb appeal, wood windows can also be a huge hassle when it comes to long-term maintenance.
That's because wood windows are more likely to rot and warp due to the wood's ability to absorb and release moisture. Over time, trapped moisture can cause fungus and mold to grow, which leads to deterioration and potential health hazards. If your rotting window frames are left untreated for a long time, termites might take up residence in your home too.
4.) Condensation Inside Your Windows
If your windows are fogging up between the panes of glass, you need replacement windows. Foggy windows are a sign that the gas originally inserted between the panes of glass has escaped, likely due to seal failure. Since outside air can now make its way into your home, your windows fail to live up to their purpose and your home's energy efficiency takes a hit.
5.) Stuck or Difficult to Open Windows
There are handful of reasons why your windows may get stuck when opening or closing them. You could be dealing with broken springs, loose screws, or expanded, bowed, or warped window sashes.
As we talked about earlier, wood windows are more likely to get stuck due to their ability to expand or shrink based on the weather, and in Grand Rapids, you're dealing with a lot of moisture year-round.
Window Nation makes it easy to solve all these window problems - and any others you may be dealing with - with their top-quality vinyl windows.
Homeowners looking to replace their windows should consider the impact Grand Rapids' frequent rain and snow can have on window material lifespans. With a variety of customization options, including wood-looking vinyl, you can maintain the character of your home while strengthening its protection against Western Michigan's weather. Plus, Window Nation's lifetime warranty helps minimize any long-term issues and unexpected expenses you might find yourself facing with other companies.
In just one day, you can say goodbye to your old windows and say hello to comfort, energy efficiency, and clear views of the outside. Schedule your free consultation to learn more about all the ways Window Nation can help with your window replacement needs!