Did you know that getting replacement windows for your home can get you a tax credit of up to $200 in the United States of America? While no one wants to encounter a water damaged window sill in their home, it isn’t the end of the world when one happens.
What is most important is knowing how to identify window leaks and mold growth with your windows so that you can get window repair or window replacement. The difference between window repair and window replacement will come down to the extent of the damage from your leaking window.
The good news is that you’re in the perfect place to learn how to identify if your window has a water damaged window sill. Continue reading this article to learn more about what to look for in order to prevent mold growth and window replacement today.
You Can See It Rotting
One of the most obvious signs that your windows and window sills are water damaged is when you see obvious signs of rotting. It is important that you don’t overlook this sign. It is also important that you don’t put off getting the repairs that your windows need. If you catch the window rot early on then you can save money by getting a window repair.
If the damage is severe then you’ll want to contact a window replacement technician for window replacement near me. If you see any rotting wood on your window’s frame or sill then it is time to consider getting a window replacement. Any wood that is experiencing rot as a consequence of water damage needs to get replaced as soon as possible.
Your Window Frame and Sill Feel Soft to the Touch
Another clear way to determine if your window frames and window sills are water damaged or rotting is by touching them. A normal window frame will feel hard and tough because it hasn’t started deteriorating from the elements. Meanwhile, a rotting window frame and window sill will feel soft by comparison.
The wooden parts of your window sills and frames should always feel how you’d expect wood to feel. You shouldn’t have any issues pushing on them and there shouldn’t be any worry about them falling apart.
Any signs of crumbling, softness, or brittleness will help you determine that your window frame and window sill are water damaged and need to be replaced as soon as possible. At this point, you won’t have any luck with fixing them because they are far into the process of rotting.
Discolored Window Frames and Sills
If you’re worried that your window sills and frames are starting to rot or that they’ve suffered water damage then another thing to do is to inspect them. If they’ve sustained damage and are starting to rot then you should notice that they’re discolored.
Most rotten window sills and frames will have some types of fungus and mold on them. Mold growth is a clear sign of water damage but also an indicator that your window frames are rotting. The mold and fungus are what cause the color of your window frames and sills to begin changing color.
If your window frames and sills are painted then there are other indicators to look for. The main one is a sign that the paint is starting to peel. Peeling paint is a sign of a leaking window and that your window could have water damage. It is a good idea to have a professional technician come out and take a look at it to be on the safe side.
You Have Window Sill Issues
When it comes to your window’s anatomy, there are certain places that will start to show signs of water damage first. The main one that you need to look out for is your window sill. When your windows start to rot, the sill is usually the first place to really begin showing it.
The main reason that the window sill is so susceptible to rotting is that that is where the water that leaks in will sit. The water will sit on the wooden window sill and gradually seep into the wood. This will lead to issues as the window leaks more over time. This is why it is vital that you keep a close watch on the window sills of your home’s windows for any signs of water damage.
Mitre Joint Issues
Mitre joint issues are another clear sign of water damaged windows. Take a close look at the corners of your window’s trim. Those areas of your window are called the mitre joints. If you look closely, you might notice a gap between the mitre joints. That is normal over a longer period of time.
The big issues start when the lower mitre joints have a large gap between them when compared to the upper mitre joints. This is a clear sign that your window has mitre joint issues as a result of water damage. The water got into the mitre joints and then froze, leading to the gap.
Damage Around Your Windows
The last clear sign that you have water damaged windows and sills is when there is obvious damage to your frames and sills. Even if your window’s frames and sill look like they’re in great condition, the damage could already be done. At that point, it is a waste of money getting a window repair when you actually need a window replacement.
Check the walls around your windows to see if there is discoloring or damage. This is a clear sign that your windows have had leaks for a while. At that point, call a local window replacement company and get your window replacement scheduled today.
Get Your Water Damaged Window Sill Replaced Today
Nothing beats relaxing and looking out the window as rain or snowflakes fall from the sky. The only thing that puts a damper on an experience like that is discovering a water damaged window sill or frame.
If you suspect that you have window leaks then you should check for discoloring and signs of mold growth. You should also touch the wood of the frame and the sill to see if they’re soft to the touch.
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