Windows in the basement of your home are important. They provide safety, light, and ventilation in an area of your home that often needs it the most. Unfortunately, the windows in the basement are often overlooked. This is especially true if homeowners don’t spend much time down there. And few people realize they need window replacement in Tigard, OR in time. Instead other issues arise from broken or worn out windows in the basement leading to costly repairs. So here are a few things to watch for:
Key Takeaways:
Windows in the basement are important for safety, light, and ventilation, but are often overlooked. If you see these signs, you should think about getting basement replacement windows right away.
- If windows have condensation that sticks around or condensation between the glass, this is a sign of seal failure or a “blown window.”
- When moisture collects around window frames, sills, walls, and floors it can cause swelling, warping, and mold.
- Because of disuse and lack of maintenance basement windows are usually difficult to operate and the first to fall into disrepair. Shattered glass is usually noticed immediately, but a crack in a basement window might go unnoticed for days, weeks, or even months.
Condensation
Fog can cloud the exterior surfaces of windows for a number of reasons. It has to do with humidity in the air and temperature fluctuations. Most often condensation on the inside or outside surfaces of windows will come and go on its own, and shouldn’t be a major concern. But if windows have condensation that sticks around or condensation between the glass, this is something to worry about. This is often a sign of seal failure or a “blown window.” These windows do not insulate as they should and readily transfer heat. This can do a number on the HVAC system and drive heating and cooling costs through the roof unless the window is replaced.
Moisture Damage
Speaking of condensation, moisture is a problem for several reasons. It seeps into low areas and other materials and can lead to serious structural problems. Wood windows in the basement are especially prone to rot. And when moisture collects around window frames, sills, walls, and floors it can cause swelling, warping, and mold. Homeowners might notice discoloration, peeling paint, or chipping plaster if there is a moisture leak. And if water seeps into the walls or floor it can cause dangerous structural damage.
Difficult Operation
Because of disuse and lack of maintenance basement windows are usually the first to fall into disrepair. Debris piles up in the track and the window can get stuck. This may not seem like a huge problem, but windows that don’t operate properly can be a huge safety risk. This is especially true of egress windows in the basement. They are meant to function as an escape during an emergency, but if they do not open it could mean the difference between life and death. So if homeowners can’t repair a sticky window they should think about getting replacements right away.
Broken Glass
Shattered glass is usually noticed immediately. But a crack in a basement window might go unnoticed for days, weeks, or even months. Not only does this make windows inefficient, but also leaves the home vulnerable to leaks and pests. Some window companies can repair broken glass by replacing a pane or a window sash. But if windows are more than 20 years old a more prudent decision may be to get replacement windows.
Curious about getting new windows in your basement? Contact EnergyGuard Windows & Doors. We can offer some of the best window replacement in Tigard, OR. You can get stress free service, high quality products, and professional installation at a fair price. To set up an appointment call (503) 554-5500. Or to check out some products for your basement you can visit 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132.