What to Look for When Checking Your Windows and Siding After a Storm

Storm Threats to Windows & Siding

Today’s windows and siding products are designed to be attractive, durable, and weather-resistant. Windows and siding combine to help define your home’s curbside appeal, but they also serve as an important line of defense. They protect your home from weather extremes, defend against moisture infiltration and pest threats, and can also help insulate your home to make it more energy-efficient. Because your windows and siding both play so many important roles, it’s important to assess their condition after any significant storm blows through.

But We Don’t Get Severe Storms in the Fall & Winter … Right?

“But it’s fall,” you say, “and severe storm season has passed.” Not so fast. Even though it’s been relatively quiet as far as hurricanes go this year, hurricane season technically lasts until November 30 – so anything’s still possible. And if you live in NC or VA, then you know that severe storms can really strike in ANY season, no matter what month the calendar happens to say it is. Living in the Southeast means you must remain diligent, keep a weather eye to the sky, and be ready to respond whenever any potential storm threat rolls in.

A Handy Window Inspection Checklist

If a storm has blown through recently, you really should take a look at your windows. But even if the weather has been quiet for a while, it’s still a good idea to assess the condition of your windows every so often. Here are a few signs that your windows may be in need of some attention:

• Your windows are visibly damaged

This one should go without saying, but if your windows or frames are visibly cracked, broken, or damaged, then it’s time to take action. Broken windows aren’t good for energy efficiency, and they also tend to attract would-be burglars and thieves!

• Obvious condensation present

If the view out your windows is starting to get hazy, this could mean your windows have lost their glaze, insulating gas, or all of the above. If you’re seeing condensation or fog inside your panes, then your window seals have been breached. This will negatively impact energy efficiency, and could lead to unhealthy mold or mildew growth.

• Windows are difficult to manipulate

Moisture infiltration can make windows swell or rot, and can rust the metal components. If opening or closing your windows is no longer a smooth process, it may be time for a window replacement. And if you’re no longer able to lock your windows, that’s a safety risk which really isn’t worth taking.

• Drafty windows

If you can feel a draft, even when your windows are shut, that’s cause for concern. It may be that you just need some fresh caulk or weatherstripping. But if that still doesn’t do the trick, a windows replacement really might be your best option.

• Increasing energy costs

If your heating and air bills are starting to increase, but you haven’t done anything different, that may mean your windows are no longer able to deliver the insulating performance you need. In this circumstance, it could be a good idea to have a licensed windows professional come out and take a look. Most reputable window contractors (like Skywalker Windows & Siding) are happy to provide a free initial inspection and consultation.

A Helpful Siding Damage Checklist

In some cases, window damage can be more obvious than any problem issues which may be occurring with your siding. Even so, it’s best not just to assume that everything’s fine. Here are a few things to look for where your siding is concerned:

• Moisture issues

Siding is meant to help keep moisture out, among other things. Even so, moisture infiltration can take its toll over time. If you see any siding that’s warped or buckled, that’s a good indication you may have some moisture infiltration issues.

• Presence of pests

Wood siding in particular is potentially vulnerable to many pests, including termites, carpenter bees, even woodpeckers. But even if your siding is made with something other than wood, pests can sometimes get through to damage underlying wooden framing materials. If you notice the presence of pests on or around your siding, that’s a good time to consult with a local pest service. And depending upon the extent of damage to your siding itself, a siding replacement may be in order.

• Visible siding damage

One strong storm is all it takes for your siding to receive some noticeable physical damage. It’s always a good idea to give your siding a visual inspection after any windstorms or other significant weather events. Holes, cracks, or other siding damage won’t fix itself, and the longer you wait, the worse these issues can become over time.

• Faded siding

Fading may just sound like a cosmetic issue, but it can also be indicative of other siding problems. If your siding has become noticeably faded, that may mean your siding material itself could be experiencing degradation. If this is the case, your siding could be losing some of its essential protective characteristics.

• Exposed fasteners or broken seals

If you notice any exposed nails, fasteners, or “pop-ups,” that’s cause for concern. Cracked or missing seals are another telltale sign of deeper ongoing issues with your siding. If you’re not sure what to do at this point, it’s always a good idea to have a licensed siding professional come out to take a look – many (like Skywalker) are happy to provide a free initial inspection and consultation.

Don’t Take Any Unnecessary Risks – Entrust Your Windows & Siding Needs to Skywalker!

If you’re located in NC or VA, there’s really nobody who takes better care of your windows and siding issues than Skywalker Windows & Siding! We can provide professional windows and siding inspection services, and we’re also well-equipped to take care of any windows or siding emergency repair or replacement needs. We’re happy to partner with both residential and commercial customers, and we make sure to do the job right the first time!

In addition, we provide many other valuable home improvement services too, including comprehensive roofing, gutters, and gutter guard installation, exterior doors replacement, and porch/deck installations. We’re proud to be the preferred home & business exterior solutions provider for the NC Piedmont Triad, Piedmont Triangle, Lake Norman area, and Southwestern VA region, including Roanoke. If you’re located anywhere within our service area, we’d love to serve your needs, too! Feel free to connect with us online, or just give us a call today at (336) 265-9595. Let us show you the Skywalker difference!