How to Deal With Leaky Windows

Window leaks can make it more difficult for the heater to warm up your home. This may result in an increase in your energy bill. Avoid this by doing the following tips as soon as possible:

Image Source: Flickr

Recaulk

1. Choose a dry day with moderate temperatures to recaulk leaking vinyl and metal windows with waterproof caulk. Pull off all peeling and loose caulk, and wash the window with a detergent solution to remove grease and oil that can prevent the caulk from adhering.
2. Put the tube of caulk into a caulking gun, cut the tip at a 45-degree angle with a utility knife, and puncture the seal with a 16d nail.
3. Lay a continuous bead with no voids or bubbles in the joint between the window and the frame along one side of the window. Tool the bead by running your finger along it, then caulk the other three sides of the window in the same way. Let the caulk cure overnight before you paint it. Source: SFGate

Ask a pro
If your windows are leaking water through the frames or sills, rain is probably getting into the house either because the exterior seals have worn away or because there are problems with the roof, chimney, spaces between siding panels, or possibly even a backed-up gutter.

A roofing contractor can inspect your roof and chimney for holes, missing shingles, poor flashing, or backed-up gutters. Sometimes you can solve the problem by replacing the shingles, patching the roof, and cleaning out the gutters. You may need to replace the flashing around the roof seams and the chimney. As an extra precaution, caulk all the way around the windows outside to make sure they're sealed against rain. Source: Modernize

Use the warranty
Ever wondered if holding onto warranties makes sense? This is why you do it. And this is why, upon purchasing a home, you should ask the seller to hand over warranty information about the windows.

Premature window seal failure means a defective product. Source: TheSpruce

One of the best ways to keep your electric bill low despite the cold winter weather is to use energy-efficient window treatments. If you don't have some yet, call us today!

 

Contact:
Universal Blinds
601 – 1550 W. 10th Ave
Vancouver, V6J 1Z9
Canada
Phone: (604) 559-1988

The post How to Deal With Leaky Windows appeared first on Universal Blinds, Shades & Shutters.

from Universal Blinds, Shades & Shutters http://ift.tt/2ifaxun