Your home is meant to keep your family safe and comfortable in all weather. For the most part, it does an excellent job of keeping the rain off, snow and ice at bay, and wind out. There are still some areas where a home may not work as well as it could at keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. If you have windows that are more than 10 years old, they could be letting in drafts that force you to use the utilities more than necessary. 

How Windows Let in Drafts

Brand-new windows are usually great at stopping drafts. They are made to fit the window opening exactly. Almost all of them are installed with weather seals to form a complete barrier against the outside. 

Unfortunately, over time the window materials start to break down creating small cracks and openings where wind and moisture can come in. Rubber or silicone seals dry out and develop cracks or they crumble. Even the window frame can shrink, crack, or warp, depending on what material it is made from. You may have noticed the home windows aren’t looking their best any longer. They may even be sticking or loose in the track. 

Fixing the Problem

Modern energy efficient windows are designed to be more effective than ever before at keeping the weather out and your family comfortable. For instance, MARVIN Windows has a line of custom windows with fiberglass frames that expand and contract at the same rate as glass to preserve the longevity of the air-seals.

Replacing your older windows with updated energy efficient products is a great way to stop those drafts and other issues. What are some other ways that these advanced windows keep the weather from breaking in?

  • Use of double- or triple-pane glass and gas fill options to prevent heat transfer into the home. 

  • Fiberglass frames that are dense, yet flexible to prevent cracking and warping.

  • Low-E glass that prevents heat loss during the winter months.

  • Warm-edge spacers between glass panes to maintain thermal efficiency.

  • Weatherstripping to form an airtight seal around all openings.

Fiberglass windows also boast a lifespan of about 50 years or more if you keep them in good condition. There are components that can wear out over time and need replacing, such as the caulking and weatherstripping. However, these frames will remain intact and wind-resistant for many years to come.

If you are thinking about replacing your historic windows or just want to stop that pesky draft, turn to ACM Window and Door Design. Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with a window specialist. Or, fill out our online form to ask our Maryland replacement window company about a free quote for window installation today.