Winter in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan can be harsh on many aspects of a home, including its landscaping, roofing, and siding. It can also be tough on windows. Excess ice and moisture that remain on windows can contribute to increased pressure, and varying hot and cold temperatures can exacerbate window damage.

ARMORVUE Home Exteriors provides quality replacement windows for homeowners throughout the greater Toledo area. Here, we highlight how homeowners can tell they need replacement windows.

What Happens to Windows During the Winter?

Spring is a time for regrowth after the winter season ends. It’s also an ideal time for homeowners to do some spring cleaning. Homeowners should consider scheduling their regular maintenance appointments around this time. This includes window maintenance.

Throughout winter, windows can experience damage. For example, accumulating ice and water contribute to excess pressure on windows. This can cause windows to become damaged or warped. In addition, Ohio weather can be unpredictable. As winter ends, weather can alternate between extreme cold and higher temperatures. This adds pressure to windows and can affect essential parts, like the frame and glazing. This is true even if the area experiences a relatively mild winter.

Winter can hit especially hard for old, dated windows. Often, these types of windows do not have sufficient insulation or energy-efficient properties. Homeowners with older windows should consider replacing them to enhance energy efficiency and insulation.

When inspecting your windows, you should check the framing and window sill. If you find issues during your window inspection, you must replace them. Doing so is essential for keeping low energy bills, avoiding severe problems like wood frame rot, and keeping the home comfortable.

How Do I Know If I Need Replacement Windows?

Most homeowners will notice drastic damage on windows, like cracked window panes. However, damage can hide underneath the surface. Homeowners must watch for certain signs that their window has damage and warrants replacement, including:

Overworked Heating and Cooling Systems

Systems that have frequent damage or require a lot of maintenance may indicate that your windows are not working as they should. When windows do not insulate properly, it allows cool air into the home during winter. This means heating and cooling systems must work overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature in the house. Systems may begin to break down, indicating a problem with window insulation.

Damaged, Worn, or Broken Window Seals

Once a window’s seal becomes broken, it can no longer keep hot or cool air within a home. Homeowners can tell if their window’s seal has become damaged if they notice fogging or moisture buildup on or between the panes. If you see signs of a broken window seal, it may be time for a replacement.

Difficulty Opening or Closing Windows

Windows should always be simple and easy to open. But when damage occurs, it can make it challenging for homeowners to open and close the windows. While sometimes this indicates a minor issue, like a loose screw, it can also signal more severe issues, like a broken windowpane. Homeowners should contact a professional window technician to inspect their windows if they have trouble opening and closing them.

Higher Energy Bills

The most telltale sign that your window has damage is if you notice increased energy bills. As stated before, heating and cooling systems must work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in the home when drafts and cold air protrude through windows. This means homeowners will see a spike in their energy bills. If you notice higher energy bills and aren’t sure where the problem is stemming from, you should consider getting windows inspected.

About Our Replacement Windows in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan

After deciding to replace your windows, you must choose the right window installation company. ARMORVUE Home Exteriors offers window replacement services to homeowners requiring a solution to their window problems.

To begin window replacement, we meet with homeowners to discuss the current state of their windows, what they need from their new windows, and other features of their homes. We take this information and use our extensive knowledge of window systems to recommend the styles and types that match your home best. We carry a variety of window types and styles in our Platinum and Gold series, including:

• Double-hung windows
• Casement and awning windows
• Slider windows
• Bow and bay windows
• Shaped windows
• Hopper windows
• Glass block windows

Homeowners can customize the appearance of their windows for a unique touch. Our windows are constructed using high-quality insulating materials like foam core and Energy Star-labeled glass for energy efficiency. They also come with a lifetime transferable warranty and are proudly made in the USA.

After homeowners choose their window style, we can schedule when renovations will begin. Homeowners can expect us to return to their homes to complete pre-install inspections shortly before their project date. Here, our measuring technician goes to your home and measures the existing windows and space. This ensures projects run smoothly once they begin.

Enroll in Replacement Window Services at ARMORVUE Home Exteriors

ARMORVUE Home Exteriors offers durable home products to homeowners across northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. Customers rely on us for our competitive pricing, and we are here to answer questions about upcoming projects. We walk you through every step of your home renovation service.

Customers can visit our easily accessible showroom in Northwood, OH. To learn more about replacement windows, contact us or call 419-825-4700 to schedule your free in-home consultation today.