Windows show their age in many different ways, making it apparent that it’s time for replacement windows. But before investing in replacement windows, you need to determine exactly what caused the deterioration in the first place, because if the underlying problem goes uncorrected the replacement windows will also fail.

A visual inspection of ailing windows will reveal clues as to what’s causing the problem. These problems typically fall into three categories:

The Window Unit

If you have dark green or black patches on the inside of the glass, or if the glass remains cloudy even after cleaning it, this is because moisture and dirt are trapped between the two panes of insulated glass. This indicates a broken seal, and repair may not be as cost effective as a replacement window.

Structural Problems

Hairline cracks on interior window trim or glass, cracks in the drywall or plaster around the window, or difficulty in opening, closing or locking the window are all signs of the framing pressing on the window unit. These structural weaknesses need to be fixed before installing a replacement window, or the same problems will affect the new window.

Water Damage

Water is the number one enemy of windows, and rarely is it the window that’s allowing water in, but the system around it. Signs of water damage include:

● Stains or marks around interior frames or surrounding walls

● Soft spots in the drywall or plaster under the window

● Soft spots and/or splintering on wood window frames or sills

● Flaking paint at the bottom of the sash

● Ants in and around the window

Windows rot from the inside out, so window sills are the first to show symptoms. Water damage can be caused by improper installation, lack of maintenance or reverse flashing. The water problems must be corrected before new windows are installed.

Installing new windows without solving the cause of the problem is like treating the symptoms while ignoring the disease. The very best replacement window that money can buy cannot withstand untreated structural or water problems.

When the old windows come out, a thorough inspection of the framing is a must. This means that the entire window unit must be removed so that underlying problems can be identified. But the catch is that window installers are typically not trained or instructed to look for – or fix – problems around the window.

Learn the right way to install replacement windows.

To get the value and comfort you expect from replacement windows, work with the professionals at Mosby Building Arts from the very beginning. Their decades of experience in water management, structural problems and carpentry will insure that you benefit from inspection of the problems, choosing the proper windows and expert installation. For replacement windows done right the first time, call Mosby at 314.909.1800 or contact them here.

At times it is easy to see that your windows need replacement. Many clues are noticeable to the untrained eye, but more commonly we see very subtle, almost invisible clues that indicate serious window conditions and potentially deep structural failure that is noticeable only to the experienced eye.

These following visible symptoms or clues suggest window replacement:

• Moisture fogging on the glass or between glass panes from condensation.
• Difficult operation of the window, or the window is totally inoperable or stuck shut preventing escape in an emergency.
• Cold and drafty areas near the windows that usually indicate costly air leakage.
• Water stains or rotting on the window sash or sill.
• Poor security, locks missing or not operating, especially on the ground floor of your house.

Choosing Who To Replace Your Windows

The window installation is actually more important than the window itself. Choose experienced installers who will only use a consistent product they have found with a tested track record as one they can depend on.  Stick with certified professionals to get the performance and quality you expect.

Professional installers understand your house and how it acts as a system of connected components. New windows perform wonderfully when installed correctly, and can leak air and water if installed wrong. These costly leaks can undermine both the comfort and structure of your house. Choose companies with certified carpenters that install your windows with the correct methods, up to date materials and according to the warranty instructions for the window. These certifications require continuing education to maintain skills and industry training so your house remains safe, healthy and valuable. Knowledge-guided window installation includes:

• Advanced flashing techniques: this keeps water out of your home, avoiding damage, rot and health issues.

• Properly sealing the installed window: air and water leaks are a drain on your energy bills, comfort and can rot out the structure of your home.

Choosing Your Replacement Windows

Quality window replacement companies build their reputations by using quality windows that deliver lasting performance with strong warranties. Better windows deliver added benefits and money savings over many years through energy efficiency. Energy savings come from two major areas in windows: low air infiltration and insulated glass. Air infiltration from leaky and drafty windows is both expensive and uncomfortable for home owners. Quality windows that are properly selected, installed, flashed and adjusted deliver exceptional performance for many years well beyond the extra cost for their quality.

It’s More Than Just Selecting a Window

There is a lot to consider when selecting replacement windows, and you need a complete staff of professionals to guide you through the process. Considerations include:

• Choosing a style that’s easy for you to operate and addresses safety issues for everyone in the home.
• Selecting the look that compliments both the exterior and interior design of your home.
• Adhering to historical or neighborhood association requirements.
• Understanding the structure of the wall where the new windows will be placed
• How the window is secured to the wall frame or opening.
• Providing a strong warranty that handles any claims promptly and efficiently.

In essence, you need full service all through the process from selection to installation. Choose a company that works with you to deliver quality windows which are installed correctly. This is far more important than concentrating only on window brand or style. A certified and experienced company takes care of every aspect of your important home improvement investment.

Why Choose Mosby For Your Replacement Windows

Homeowners value our deep bench of certified and trained professionals who discover underlying problems and deliver the real solution. Follow through this case study of how one homeowner chose Mosby Building Arts to correct his leaking window problems. See the hidden truth that was discovered from a Mosby consulting visit and the steps taken to properly install a leaking window.

We specialize in correcting the mistakes others have made by installing windows wrong, so we know full well the considerable cost of paying for the initial work and then paying again to do it right. Lasting value is a much better choice than the consequences of bargain or cut-rate decisions.

Mosby invests time and continuing training of our staff of professionals. Certain window manufacturers are included in the Mosby selection list only if their reputation is solid and a high quality product is consistently delivered. We choose window manufacturers who maintain a positive record for responsive service and strong warranties. Our practices and products assure you that all our window installations meet and exceed your expectations and beauty requirements.

Our method of installing includes treating your home and property with the utmost respect, but also attending to the details that deliver effectiveness and efficiency of your window investment. When it’s time for replacement windows, call Mosby for real peace of mind in your window replacement project.

Let us walk you through the options and styles of Mosby replacement windows by calling 314.909.1800 or contacting us here.