The Dangers of Old, Non-Functioning Windows

 

Installing replacement windows continues to be a top priority among homeowners. Windows provide your home with valuable protection, including keeping you and your family safe from nature’s elements and indoor climate control. If your windows are older and not functioning properly, you could expose yourself and your family to safety hazards and health conditions in your home. 

Here are some potential risks of keeping those old, cracked, or chipped windows:

Lead

If your home was built before 1978, chances are the paint and windows may contain lead. According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are at least 4 million households with lead paint. Removing old windows with lead can result in lead exposure, which can compromise your health. Lead poisoning can lead to kidney damage and high blood pressure and can affect the brain development of unborn children. If your home contains lead paint and you notice paint chips or peeling around your windows, having a professional install replacement windows as soon as possible is a good idea.

Mold

One potential danger of older windows is mold and mildew buildup. When outdoor air mixes with your home’s indoor air, it creates fog. This form of condensation is a breeding ground for the forming of mold and mildew. Mold exposure can increase the threat of illness carried by spores and lead to overall poor air quality, respiratory problems, and health issues. If left untreated, mold can dampen wood and seep into walls, affecting the structural integrity of your home. 

Asbestos

In homes constructed before 1980, it was common to use asbestos in window frames or caulking as it helped to prevent air and water leakage. However, asbestos can be harmful to your health, especially if inhaled or ingested. . If you have an older home and decide to invest in new windows, have the materials tested before replacing them to ensure your safety. 

Safety Risks for Children

According to SafeKids Worldwide, more than 3,000 children are injured each year by falling through old or damaged windows. Old, cracked, or warped frames can quickly become dangerous, compromising the security and safety of your windows. 

New replacement windows come with safety features, including night lock features and top opening windows, making them safer options for homes with children. 

Home Security Risks

The locks on older windows often do not latch or function properly, making them less secure than newer windows. Thieves can gain access to homes through broken or damaged windows. Replacement windows provide an added layer of security for your family and possessions. 

Energy Waster

The US Department of Energy estimates that 10-20% of your energy bill could be wasted by inefficient windows. Not only are older windows less energy-efficient, but they can also result in uncomfortable and variable temperatures in your home. Investing in new windows can lower your energy bill while making your home more comfortable. 

Storm Damage

When a severe storm or hurricane hits, your windows help protect your home from pounding rain, winds, hail, and flying debris. Older windows may not close securely, increasing the possibility of wind and water damage to your home. Installing new windows increases the chances of your home weathering the storm, keeping your family and belongings safe.

At The Window Depot, we are the home improvement experts in the Tampa Bay area. If you need replacement windows, we offer vinyl and aluminum windows from the top manufacturers. All of the products we offer will provide decades of beauty and dependable performance. Call us at (813) 901-5555 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment or learn more about our products and services. You can also visit our showroom in Palm Harbor to view our windows firsthand.

 

Sources

https://www.energy.gov/

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/window-replacement/ 

https://www.thespruce.com/windows-replaced-rather-than-repaired-1822905 





Location: 4154 Corporate Ct, Palm Harbor, FL 34683, USA

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