Egress windows are used for emergency exits during fire and also let in natural light for lower levels of a home. They are typically implemented in basements to help them feel more open and allow for better ventilation. Similar to windows around the rest of the home, egress windows need to have seasonal maintenance in order to function properly.
This blog will cover some of the most important seasonal maintenance tips to help keep your egress windows safe. No matter what season you are in, there are some tips that can be done year-round to protect your home. We will also indicate what tasks need to be done during a specific season for optimal performance.
1- Inspect For Damage
The most important task when it comes to windows is repairing damage quickly. Inspecting your egress windows for damage all year round will help prevent leaks, drafts, bug infestations, mold growth, and more.
When inspecting windows, you should take a good look at window sills, window wells, screens, panes, and locking mechanisms. Looking for cracks in any of these areas or any bacteria growth is a good place to start. Repair these cracks with caulk or with help from a professional.
Damage is easier to repair when the temperature is moderate. Looking for cracks around egress windows during the spring and fall months will make your repair tasks much easier. Trudging through snow or laboring in the heat is not ideal for homeowners.
2- Seal Gaps
Proper windows help protect your home from extreme weather conditions. Keeping wind, snow, rain, and dust out of your home is all thanks to your windows. During the summer when storms are less frequent, you should seal gaps in your egress windows. Inspect caulk and weather stripping around the windows and replace damaged sections.
Sealing gaps will help improve energy efficiency in your home. Letting warm air out during the winter and cool air out in the summer can be frustrating to homeowners. This is why sealing gaps is an important maintenance task for egress windows.
3- Check Insulation
Insulation is crucial for homes, not only for comfort but also for health. Fluctuating temperatures can be uncomfortable to deal with but they can also cause issues like pipe bursts, chipping paint, mold growth, and an increase in allergens. Since weather stripping wears out over time, it needs frequent replacement in order for a home to be energy efficient.
4- Window Well Covers
Covers help keep the elements and pests out of your home. Inspect your covers at least once a year to ensure that they are secure. This task can be completed in almost any season, but if you find a problem, you need to make repairs as soon as possible.
Preventative maintenance is often the best course of action when it comes to egress windows. Checking your windows right before winter weather hits will keep your home safe and dry.
5- Watch For Drafts
When you notice drafts in your home, check your windows and doors. If windows, especially egress windows, are not sealed properly they will let in outdoor air and thwart your efforts to keep your home at a consistent temperature. Experiencing a draft could mean your glass isn’t thick enough for your climate or your weather stripping is worn. As part of egress window maintenance, track drafts and figure out their cause.
6- Remove Snow And Ice
Utah winters are extremely harsh on egress windows. Homeowners will need to work quickly to remove snow and ice from window wells during the winter. Not only will this ensure the windows are clear in case of an emergency, but will limit the wear on your window components.
Once spring weather starts to appear, you should check the windows for damage and make sure they open smoothly. Doing so will save you precious time in an emergency.
Egress Windows From Peak Windows
Installing egress windows provides safety and improved aesthetics. They provide the opportunity to expand your home’s living space and increase the value of your home. Proper windows of any type make a house a true home. Peak Windows offers quality windows and doors for homes in Northern, UT. Egress windows provide natural light to lower levels of a home when properly maintained. Follow these tips and work with our professional team to keep your windows in proper order.