A Guide to Window Construction and Proper Maintenance
Understanding how various parts of your home are made is key to knowing how to maintain their structural integrity and locate necessary repairs. In some cases, you may be able to identify faulty installation or inherent problems with essential features of your home, such as the windows.
While there are countless window shapes and styles, this brief guide will focus on standard construction and provide a basic understanding of window assembly, inspection, repair, and maintenance.
Basic Window Construction
Before making the call to replace your windows, it’s helpful to understand basic window components, which can help inform your manufacturer or installation service choice.
The Window Frame
The frame comprises components, including the head, jamb, and sill, that support the window system. The head forms the top part of the frame and sits horizontally from end to end. The jambs make up the vertical sides of the frame. A jambliner is placed on the window’s sides to ensure a snug fit for the window sash, which is a moveable part of the window that sits within the frame and holds the glass. Finally, the sill sits horizontally across the bottom for structural support.
Additional Window Features
Depending on the shape or type of window you choose, you may notice some unique parts not seen in a standard, single-hung window. For example, grilles are decorative strips that give the appearance of multiple window panes. The window casing covers the space between the window frame and the wall, which is typical for decorative purposes.
Window Materials
There are 3 main materials used for window construction: vinyl, fiberglass, and wood. Depending on your climate, some materials may be better choices than others. For example, in climates with higher moisture, you’ll want to avoid wooden windows, which are prone to warping, rotting, or mold formation.
Inspecting for Repairs
Your windows are exposed to the elements, which means they are prone to natural damages — and not necessarily by force! As seasons change and temperatures fluctuate, your home can expand and move slightly. Your home is also prone to movement as it naturally settles into the earth. The natural compression can cause cracking around both doors and windows. This leaves gaps that let air escape or enter your home, leading to higher utility costs.
Another common window repair issue is cracked or broken weatherstripping and sealant. Both materials are responsible for minimizing air leaks and preventing water from entering the home, but over time, they can break down and cause gapping problems. This is why yearly inspection of your windows is both proactive and potentially money-saving.
Having Window Issues?
Here at Advance Inc., we pride ourselves on offering customers reliable resources and superior services. If you need window replacement, repair, or upgrade, contact us today to speak to a representative. You can also view our available windows and window services on our website. We are happy to help!