You have had a recent construction job done on your home and the new windows the contractors have installed seem to be in order. Unfortunately, not every window job goes off without a hitch. An improper window installation can become a real problem, not only because of the hassle of trying to fix the windows, but because of other damage a poor window job can produce.
Sometimes homeowners find out about a subpar window job only after serious damage has happened to the home. The damage could lead to litigation with the construction outfit which performed the work. Homelight explains different ways that you might recognize that you have a problem with your home windows.
Mold and mildew growth
Proper insulation of your home keeps harmful pathogens like mold from growing in your house. If you find unexplained mold growths in a hall or bedroom, check your windows. A window without proper insulation might become cool in the winter, which can produce water droplets that run into the structural locations of your residence. These droplets may cause rot which progresses into mold and mildew growth.
Water intrusion
A lack of insulation can also cause problems during rainstorms. A window with good insulation will help keep rainwater out of your home. Gaps in the insulation, however, may permit water to leak into your house. Even if the water intrusion is not substantial and is only limited to condensation, it can still cause mold and mildew to grow.
Pest intrusion
Pests like bugs and ants seek out sources of water. You might encounter some of these pests in your home if water leaks through your windows. If water leakage causes rot in the structure of your home, the pest infestation could become worse. Water and rot can draw in destructive pests like termites. A termite invasion might render serious damage to a part of your house.
High utility bills
A more subtle sign that something is wrong may turn up in your utility bills. You might find your utility costs have gone up without explanation. If your windows lack proper insulation, they could leak your home air and force your HVAC system to work harder to keep your home warm or cool. This could be an early warning sign that you have defects in your windows.