Maintaining Your Wooden Windows; Consider Upgrading

Are your old wooden windows damaged or leaky?

For centuries, wood was the only material we had to make window frames. It wasn’t until after World War II that manufacturers began experimenting with the use of vinyl to make frames, and decades later before vinyl window frames became popular in new home construction. AHT uses composite window frames made of Expanded Polymer Composites (EPC)… no hollow, rigidness.

If your home is more than a couple decades old, it’s a good bet that you’ve got wooden window frames.

Unlike composite frames, which require virtually no maintenance, wooden frames are greatly affected by temperature, humidity, and time, and are prone to warping, swelling, and cracking. Because of this, routine maintenance is essential to keeping your wooden windows in good condition, and preventing leaks and drafts in your home. If your home still has wooden window frames, here are some tips to help you keep them in good shape.

1) Upkeep exterior paint and finish. Whenever the paint or finish of your wooden frames chips or becomes worn, it’s important to fix it up with a fresh coat. Not only will it keep your home looking beautiful, but it will also prevent moisture from getting at the frame and rotting the wood; saving you the cost of replacing a rotted window.

2) Keep the windows clean. Be sure to regularly clean out any dust that forms around the operational parts of the window to keep them working great. Also, wiping away condensation that forms on and around the window will help prevent them from warping or swelling.

3) Seal up gaps. Even with great maintenance, wooden frames will inevitably warp over time. Warping can create space between the frame and walls of your home. These gaps will cause drafts, as well as unnecessary increases in heating costs. Use a high-quality, long-lasting, weatherproof caulk to seal up any gaps along the edge of your windows frame.

4) Regularly Check For Damage.This one might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s incredibly

important in keeping your windows and home efficient. Check the interior and exterior of your home’s windows for damage at least twice a year. Make sure to take care of any regular maintenance as soon as possible. Any major damage, like a cracked or severally rotted frame is a sign that it’s time to replace the window entirely.

Are your old wooden windows damaged or leaky? If so, it might be the right time to consider durable and efficient windows from AHT. Give us a call for a free quote on new replacement windows for your home.